Explore Our World

Academia Cotopaxi: Shaping Global Education in Quito for Over Six Decades.

High Quality Learning at Academia Cotopaxi

We believe that exceptional learning begins with a clear, shared vision. Together, our entire staff co-constructed a High-Quality Learning statement, built around five essential dimensions that guide our daily practices:

Genuine Belonging developing positive identities

Equitable Access ensuring gateways to essential knowledge and skills.

Agency and Ownership empowering engagement

Meaningful Connections & Assessment creating opportunities to deepen understanding

Productive Struggle challenging and supporting a growth mindset

INNOVATIVE EDUCATION

Mission: Our learning community inspires all students to shape their lives as principled, skillful, and appreciative contributors to the world

PASSIONATE LEARNERS

Core Values: We strive for excellence with integrity, respect, responsibility, and empathy

SENSE OF COMMUNITY

Mission Impacts: All students engage in the pursuit of personal purpose. Each student pursues meaningful and positive action in the community

GLOBAL CITIZENS

Strategic Direction: We will develop a learning model that is aligned with our mission. We will develop a sustainable business model that supports our learning model

Our story Academia Cotopaxi

1959

Foundation:

Academia Cotopaxi was established in response to the needs of the American community in Quito, providing education that meets U.S. standards.
1968-1969

Expansion:

The school builds a three-story building under the leadership of Felda Hockstetler, accommodating up to 350 students.
1977

Revitalization:

Donald A. Fournier revitalizes the school, facing challenges – By the end of his tenure in 1991, enrollment had surged to 670 students.
1981

U.S. School Accreditation:

Academia Cotopaxi receives an excellent rating from SACS accreditation review team, reflecting its high standards in education.
1982

Introduction of the IB Diploma:

The school becomes the first in Ecuador to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, a significant academic milestone.
1990

New Campus:

With help from the U.S. government, the school moves to its current campus in Monteserrín, expanding its facilities and capacity.
1994 - 1995

Enrollment Growth:

Enrollment steadily increases, reflecting school’s evolving reputation and appeal.
2004

Launch of IMAGINE:

The bilingual preschool opens, starting with 40 children and expanding rapidly due to high demand, emphasizing early childhood education.
2005

IB Primary Years Programme:

Academia Cotopaxi becomes the first school in Ecuador to offer the PYP, enhancing its commitment to comprehensive international education.
2006

Infrastructure Development:

Significant improvements are made, including renovations to science labs, a new sports complex, and upgraded facilities.
2013

International Study Body:

The school serves 550 students, including those in IMAGINE, with 60% local students and 40% representing over 30 nationalities.

2021

Hybrid Learning Innovations:

Development and implementation of a hybrid model combining in-person and online instruction, ensuring flexibility and continuous learning.
2023

STEM Excellence Center:

Opening of a center dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, supporting student interests in these critical areas.
2024

Introduction of CASEL framework:

Introduction of comprehensive social skills programs focusing on students’ mental and physical health, preparing them for personal and social well-being.

Meet our Board of Trustees Governance

Academia Cotopaxi is governed by a nine-member Board of Trustees. The Director, reporting to the Board, collaborates with the administrative team to fulfill our mission, strategic plan, and core values.

1 Member appointed by the U.S. Embassy of Quito.

6 Members elected by the American School Association of Academia Cotopaxi:

4 serve three-year terms.
2 serve two-year terms for smooth transitions.

2 Faculty Members elected by the Association, serving one-year terms.

The Board, in partnership with the school administration, values transparent and constructive input from our community. For questions or concerns about Strategic or Governance-related topics, please contact us at board@cotopaxi.k12.ec. We look forward to hearing from you.

Our Academic Approach

At Academia Cotopaxi, every child is at the heart of our learning journey—from their very first steps in IMAGINE to the proud moment they graduate from high school. Our future-driven program empowers them to grow, thrive, and shape the world ahead.

Explore our learning program