School Description

The American Nicaraguan School (ANS) is a private, nonsectarian, coeducational day school founded in 1944 to provide a college preparatory American educational program from Nursery (Kindergarten age 3) through Grade 12 for students of all nationalities. The School is governed by a 7 member Board of Directors, with 6 members elected by school parents, and one member appointed by the U.S. Embassy. The school community includes members of the diplomatic corps, foreign and local businesses, Nicaraguan government and various international assistance groups working in Nicaragua.

Facilities

Located on a 26 acre campus in Managua, Nicaragua, the school offers internet ready classrooms in addition to wireless access, ten administrative offices, a library/media center and technology center, video conferencing facilities, science laboratories, fine arts, drama and music department, and extensive athletic facilities for tennis, basketball, swimming, soccer, baseball and volleyball including a multi-purpose covered athletic area with capacity for 3000 people.

Enrollment

Of the 946 Students enrolled at A.N.S. as of September 15, 2011, 466 are in elementary school, 221 in middle school, and 259 in high school. There are 30 student nationalities represented at ANS, of which 31% are U.S. citizens, 53% are Nicaraguan and the remaining 16% represent other nationalities.

Faculty

There are 106 full-time faculty members and administrators in the 2011-2012 school year, including 48% U.S. citizens, 40% Nicaraguans and 12% of other nationalities. Most are licensed to teach in the United States, Nicaragua or their native country.

Curriculum

The curriculum is comparable to that offered in college preparatory schools of like size in the United States and also includes the Nicaraguan Bachillerato program. English is the language of instruction at all academic levels. Spanish is the required subject of study throughout the system and English-Spanish bilingualism is a major curricular objective. Most graduates successfully enter colleges and universities in the United States. Student Services maintains a College Guidance Center that contains the range of resources necessary to assist students with career decision making and postsecondary planning. Advanced-Placement (AP) classes are available to students.

View School Profile 2011-2012