Inter-American Academy of Guayaquil

Guayaquil, Ecuador

About Inter-American Academy of Guayaquil: Inter-American Academy of Guayaquil (IAA), is a small not for profit American international school based in Ecuador. With less than 300 students and around 36 teachers, it has a solid history and reputation.

School Mission: Inter-American Academy, working in a close relationship with culturally diverse families and communities, provides emotional and academic tools for students to excel through a challenging U.S. curriculum within a safe and caring environment. IAA nurtures students to become global citizens and leaders as well as discerning users of 21st Century Skills, prepared for post-secondary education and lifelong learning.

School Vision: Preparing compassionate, happy, successful future global leaders who impact the world in a positive way.

Visit the school’s website for more details and information.

ITF Review
(Based on Independent Research)

Would you recommend this school to other teaching families?

Recommend – for teachers interested in working in Ecuador, the school offers a diverse student body, strong package (for the area) and decent benefits.

Overall compensation package rating

Salary is paid in US dollars and is tax-free, making the package (which includes housing, flights, medical and other benefits) very good for Ecuador (and Latin America).

Tuition benefits

The school offers a 100% discount on tuition for teacher’s kids (up to two children per teacher).

Housing

Furnished housing is provided for all teachers.

Flights

Our research found conflicting information about flight details. Some sources sited annual flights were included (for teacher and dependents) while others stated flights were only covered at beginning and end of contract.

Healthcare

Private worldwide healthcare insurance is included in the teaching package (no dental).

Adjustment for kids

The school is small which can have pros and cons. A tight knit community can help your kids to settle, but if they don’t find their people it can be challenging.

The students are made up of 29 different nationalities which is very diverse given the small size of students (just over 250 kids).

Average class sizes

Not surprisingly given the size of the school, class sizes are relatively small – averaging 18 students.

Teaching experience required

The teaching community is made up of approximately 50% local and 50% overseas hires. To teach here, you’ll need at least two years teaching experience. You’re also required to hold a teaching qualification or certification.

Curriculum

American (SAT, ACT, AP).

Retirement/pension benefits

A private pension scheme is included for teachers. The school pays in approximately 10%.

School history & stability

The school is well established, founded back in 1979.

Inter-American Academy of Guayaquil – Additional Benefits

  • Relocation allowance
  • Contract renewal bonus
  • Spanish classes
  • Professional development
  • Settling in allowance
  • Additional baggage allowance for dependents

What Teachers are Saying About Inter-American Academy of Guayaquil

The school is a quality place to teach in which your voice is heard and respected.

EX TEACHER, IAA

I would definitely recommend this school. The only issue is that Guayaquil itself just doesn’t hold enough interest for many teachers to stay long-term.

EX-TEACHER AT INTER-AMERICAN ACADEMY OF GUAYAQUIL

The students at the school tend to lack motivation. Unfortunately, many of the parents support their lack of motivation!

EX-TEACHER AT IAA
  • Aerial shot of the Cerro Santa Ana in Guayaquil, Ecuador - a sight you could visit if you work at the Inter-American Academy Guayaquil
  • An artistic black and white image of a park bench in Guayaquil, Ecuador
  • A busy evening street in Guayaquil with bustling traffic and urban lights

If you are looking for a culturally rich experience and motivated students, Guayaquil isn’t the place. If you’re just wanting an international experience and the chance to learn Spanish it might be a good option.

EX INTERNATIONAL TEACHER, GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR

The school has a history of always being in a money crunch, which is frustrating if you’ve taught at school’s with deep pockets. Expect to hear, “it’s not in the budget” frequently.

EX TEACHER, IAA

The administration stands behind the teachers and grades are given on a merit basis. I do enjoy working here, but there’s not a lot to do in Guayaquil itself (aside from go to the mall).

CURRENT TEACHER, IAA

Safety, Adaptability & Cost of Living

  • Safety:Fair – Living in Guayaquil requires a good level of awareness, especially in certain neighbourhoods. Most expat families choose to live in secure areas like Samborondón, Urdesa, or gated communities with 24/7 security. The school provided accommodation is in an upmarket area.
  • Adaptability: High – Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and a key commercial hub, with a growing expat community. Many expats say it’s trying to be a US city, and there are a lot of shopping malls where you’ll find international goods. You can enjoy riverfront walks along the Malecón 2000 and there are lots of parks. Spanish skills make life much smoother, with even a little bit of basic Spanish going a long way.
  • Cost of Living: Moderate – Housing, domestic help, and local groceries are affordable, but utilities can be expensive (and rates are based on where you live – with more upmarket areas paying more). Imported goods, international brands, and eating out at upscale restaurants can be expensive.

General Overview for Teaching Families

Inter-American Academy (IAA) is a reputable, not-for-profit international school in Guayaquil. It was founded in 1979 and is made up of students from Pre-K through to Grade 12. As an American International school, It offers a full American curriculum and a U.S. high school diploma. Accredited by Cognia and Ecuador’s Ministry of Education, IAA also offers the AP Capstone program, immersive English instruction, and strong university placement with substantial scholarship awards.

The school is made up of a diverse student body (with around 29 different nationalities). There are a range of extracurricular activities on offer for students, such as MUN, service learning, and cultural celebrations. The campus is located in the secure Puerto Azul area. You can expect modern facilities like labs, a pool, sports courts, and extensive green spaces.

Many of the teachers are international (primarily from the UK and the US). The recruitment package is competitive for the region (though like most Latin American countries it’s less than your would expect than in areas in Asia or the Middle East) and provides flights, 100% tuition coverage for up to two children, relocation support, housing, medical coverage, and other benefits.

Do you currently teach at Inter-American Academy? We’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch with us to let us know about your experience. Or fill out our teacher survey to provide more info about this school.

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