American School of Asuncion

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The American School of Asunción is an international school in Asunción, Paraguay founded in 1955. It is a private non-profit day school, which offers an instructional program from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is a bilingual, multi-cultural educational institution which incorporates U.S. and Paraguayan culture, history, language, pedagogy, and values in an educational program for United States, international, and Paraguayan students alike.

ASA offers a rigorous college-preparatory program using a standards-based curriculum. The program emphasizes cooperative learning, critical thinking, problem solving and whole language, as well as to bilingualism and cultural diversity. All students in grades 1-12 are required to study Spanish. Students can graduate with both a U.S. High School Diploma and Paraguayan Studies Diploma. Each grade level is limited to 48 students and is divided into 2 sections.

The school is accredited in the United States by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and recognized in Paraguay by the Ministry of Education and Culture. ASA is also a member of the Association of American Schools in South America (AASSA) and recognized by the U.S. Office of Overseas Schools (A.O.S.).

A representative of the US Ambassador sits on the Board of Governors. Today, the modern campus lies within a wealthy Asuncion neighborhood and comprises a student body of approximately 700. The student body is predominantly Paraguayan, although many Americans attend several years (usually children of diplomats). Many go on to college in the United States, and many stay to continue their studies in Asunción. ASA, as it is known, is commonly regarded as the best and most exclusive school in the capital.

In 2004, 585 students were enrolled, of whom 306 were Paraguayan, 166 were US citizens, and 103 were of other nationalities.

[edit] School Mission Statement

The American School of Asunción, a bilingual learning community of Paraguayan and international families, offers an early childhood through college-preparatory program. ASA adheres to the highest standards of educational excellence from the United States and Paraguay while fostering a student-centered and caring environment.