Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Santa Fe
Summary: If you're moving to Santa Fe with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Santa Fe
For expats and digital nomads to Santa Fe, finding the right educational environment for their children is a top priority. Santa Fe is a smaller town in Panama, and as such, the options for international or bilingual schools are somewhat limited compared to a large city. However, there are still a few reputable institutions within a reasonable driving distance that cater to the needs of expat families. Among the most popular are the International Bilingual School of Veraguas and the Pan-American School, both known for their rigorous academic programs and multicultural environments.
International Bilingual School of Veraguas
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Santiago, Veraguas
Website: www.ibsveraguas.com
The International Bilingual School of Veraguas offers a comprehensive bilingual education with a focus on preparing students for a globalized world. The curriculum is designed to foster academic excellence and cultural understanding. With state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body, the school provides an enriching environment for expat children. The school is located in Santiago, which is within a 40-minute drive from Santa Fe, making it a convenient option for families residing in the area.
Pan-American School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): David, Chiriqui
The Pan-American School is another excellent choice for expat families living near Santa Fe, Panama. Although it is a bit further away, located in David, Chiriqui, it is still accessible for those willing to commute for quality education. The school offers a bilingual curriculum and prides itself on its multicultural environment, where students from various backgrounds come together to learn and grow. The school emphasizes academic rigor and personal development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for higher education and beyond.
Please note that due to the smaller size of Santa Fe, Panama, and its more rural setting, the availability of international or bilingual schools within a 40-minute drive is limited. Families may need to consider the logistics of daily travel or boarding options if they choose schools that are further away. It is also recommended to contact the schools directly to inquire about current enrollment, as spaces can be limited and demand for international education is high among the expat community.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Santa Fe
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Panama
- Best Places to Live in Panama
- Real Estate in Panama
- 10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Panama
- Pros and Cons of Living in Panama 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Panama
- More Advice about Retiring in Panama
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Panama