Balboa Academy vs Crossroads Christian Academy

	B Balboa Academy Panama City, Panama	C Crossroads Christian Academy Panama City, Panama
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year $1,993 - 16,005	Fees / year $8,100 - 13,250
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)	Curriculum American Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 901	Pupils 167
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 13
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1999	Opened 1997
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Balboa Academy is a private school in Panama City, located in the heart of the capital's vibrant community. The school sits in Ciudad del Saber (City of Knowledge) in Clayton, Panama City. This location places Balboa Academy in the Clayton neighborhood with convenient access to Panama City's amenities.	Location The Crossroads Christian Academy is located in the Corozal area of Panama City, Republic of Panama. The address is Building #6582 Corozal, Ave. Omar Torrijos-Herrera, between Albrook and Clayton.
Stages	Stages Balboa Academy serves students from PK-3 through 12th grade. Academic stages include Preschool (ages 3-4), Elementary (ages 5-10), Middle School (ages 11-14), and High School (ages 15-18).	Stages The school serves Pre-K through 12th grade, organized into Elementary, Middle School, and High School.
School type	School type The school is a private day, college-preparatory school offering a U.S.-standards-based curriculum and dual Panamanian/U.S. diplomas.	School type The school is a private international Christian school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Over 40 nationalities represented.	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Honor and support classes are offered.	Additional learning support The school generally does not accept students with special educational needs.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Panama and the United States. The school issues dual Panamanian and U.S. diplomas.	Country affiliation Panama
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation Christian (affiliated with Crossroads Bible Church; operates with a Christian faith-based mission)
School day structure	School day structure School hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday PK 8:00–12:30; K-12 8:00–2:55. Wednesday PK 8:00–11:30; K-12 8:00–12:45.	School day structure The school year runs from August to mid-June. School hours are 7:40 AM–2:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and 7:40 AM–12:40 PM on Wednesdays.
Bus service details	Bus service details Bus transportation is available for all Balboa Academy students. The service is provided by TRANES PANAMA, S.A. Clayton is among the served areas; many neighborhoods across Panama City are included.	Bus service details CCA does not operate its own bus service; transportation can be arranged through an external referral.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Admission fees - Application / evaluation fee: USD 150, paid online as part of the application process. - Admission fee (one-time, payable on acceptance/enrolment): USD 12,000. Annual (registration/annual) fees - Preschool (PK3 & PK4) annual fee: USD 1,077. - Grades K–12 annual fee: USD 1,899. Annual tuition — non‑sponsored students (full year) - PK3 & PK4: USD 7,966 per year. - Kindergarten: USD 12,541 per year. - Grades 1–5: USD 12,665 per year. - Grades 6–12: USD 14,006 per year. Annual tuition — sponsored students (full year) - PK3 & PK4: USD 9,257 per year. - Kindergarten: USD 13,828 per year. - Grades 1–5: USD 13,965 per year. - Grades 6–12: USD 15,309 per year. Tuition per term / instalments and billing schedule - The school calendar published for the 2025–26 year uses quarter/term blocks. The school does not publish a public per‑term invoice table on the fee pages; the website invites families to contact the admissions team about payment options. Where a school uses term or monthly instalments, per‑term amounts are normally calculated from the annual tuition and the school's chosen number of instalments; Balboa Academy's public fee pages do not list per‑term amounts or an explicit payment‑due calendar. - Application payment is taken online through the application link. For other billing cadence (annual, termly, monthly), accepted instalment plans and specific due dates are not detailed on the school's public fees page. Boarding fees - No boarding provision or boarding fees are published for Balboa Academy. The school's materials describe the campus and programmes for day students; therefore boarding fees are not applicable. Other costs and typical additional charges - Registration/annual administration fees (listed above) apply in addition to tuition. - Uniforms: uniforms are required and may be purchased through the school's listed supplier (Galapago Panama); individual uniform item prices are not published on the school fee pages. - Bus service: a paid bus service is available for multiple areas; route coverage is published but bus fares are not listed on the public pages. - School meals: a daily lunch service (partnered with Yaya's Kitchen) is offered and menus are available monthly; meal pricing is not published on the school's fee page. - After‑school and extracurricular activities: some activities may have additional costs; specific activity fees are not published on the general fees page. Refunds and cancellations - No detailed public refund policy, pro‑rata withdrawal table or explicit refund rules for tuition or other fees are published on the school's public fees or admissions pages. Families are required to contact the admissions office for enrolment and fee terms; specific refund provisions are not listed. Fee payment options (what is publicly stated) - The application/evaluation fee is paid via the application link during the application process. Beyond that, the school's public pages invite enquiries about payment options but do not enumerate accepted payment methods (credit card, bank transfer, local payment portals) or give step‑by‑step payment instructions on the general fees page. Families are directed to contact the admissions office for payment arrangements. Summary of verified figures and totals - Key published figures (application fee, admission fee, annual fees, tuition rates for sponsored and non‑sponsored students) are taken from the school's public fees and admissions pages. Third‑party fee aggregators also reproduce these figures and show combined first‑year totals that include the one‑time admission/registration charges plus annual tuition. What was not publicly available on the school's fee pages (brief note) - The school's public pages do not provide an itemised per‑term invoice table, explicit payment due dates or schedules, detailed payment‑method instructions (credit card vs bank transfer vs payment portal), per‑item uniform or meal prices, or a published refund/withdrawal refund schedule. For those items, families must contact the school's admissions or finance office to obtain the official payment schedule, instalment options, accepted payment methods and the school's refund policy.	Fee details Application and Entry Fees - Application (processing) fee: USD 100 per student (nonrefundable). - Testing fee (new applicants): USD 50 (one-time). - Registration fee (annual): USD 650 per student (paid yearly with registration; nonrefundable). - Entrance (one-time enrollment) fee: standard listed amount for 2026–2027 is USD 5,000 per student with multiple payment options; alternative corporate entrance amounts and historical payment options are published for families on company/embassy plans. Payment-option examples include a one-time USD 5,000 payment or staggered plans over 5, 10, or 20 months at higher totals (e.g., options shown include USD 5,250, USD 5,500, or up to USD 6,000 depending on the plan chosen). The entrance fee is required to secure a place and is nonrefundable. Tuition fees by year group (School Year 2026–2027) - K3 & K4: USD 7,450 per year (equivalent listed as USD 745 per month on a 10-month plan). - K5 & Grades 1–4: USD 8,130 per year (equivalent listed as USD 813 per month on a 10-month plan). - Grades 5–8 (Middle School): USD 8,790 per year (equivalent listed as USD 879 per month on a 10-month plan). - Grades 9–12 (High School): USD 9,500 per year (equivalent listed as USD 950 per month on a 10-month plan). - Corporate (employer-paid) tuition rates (examples published): K3 & K4 USD 9,000; K5 & Elementary USD 13,500; Middle School USD 14,500; High School USD 15,000. Corporate rates and conditions apply when an employer or organization is directly responsible for payment. How tuition is billed and payment terms (billing schedule) - Tuition is charged on an annual basis with an option to pay via a standard 10-month payment plan. When using the 10-month plan, the annual tuition is divided into 10 equal monthly payments. The listed monthly amounts on the 2026–2027 schedule equal the annual tuition divided by 10. - First monthly payment: due no later than five business days before the start of classes when using monthly payments; students may not attend classes until this first payment has been received. Subsequent monthly payments are due on the 10th of each month (months cited include 9/10, 10/10, 11/10, 12/10, 1/10, 2/10, 3/10, 4/10, and 5/10 for the standard payment cycle). Payments are considered past due on the 11th; a 10% late fee is assessed on outstanding balances each month. - Accounts 90 days past due: students with accounts reflecting 90 days of outstanding balance will be notified that the student will not be allowed to attend school or extracurricular activities until payments are made and/or a payment plan is approved. Report cards, transcripts, and access to some online systems will be withheld for families with outstanding balances. Other mandatory and common fees (yearly / per-service) - Technology fee (annual): Elementary (K5–5) USD 20; Middle School USD 40; High School USD 90 (due with August payment). - Graduation fee (Grade 12): USD 125 (due with August payment). - After-school and extracurricular activity fees: variable by activity and season; parents are charged specific fees when signing up for optional programs. - Before-school supervision (early drop-off): USD 5 per day (as needed) or USD 30 per month (monthly plan; no refunds if not used). After-school late pickup supervision: USD 20 for the first 30 minutes and USD 20 for each additional 30-minute increment. - Field trip transportation: minimum fee USD 5 per trip when transportation is required. - Textbooks: included in tuition; textbooks remain school property. Parents are charged for damaged or lost textbooks (cost of replacement plus shipping, and a minimum surcharge where applicable). - Returned / rejected checks: minimum fee USD 30. Fees charged may vary based on bank charges. - Transcripts and academic document fees: examples published include USD 5 per U.S. transcript copy, USD 20 for local institution copies (translation/formatting), and USD 40 for processing a local Panamanian diploma. Fees vary by document and service. - Hot lunch program: available through a contracted vendor; ordering and payment are done through the vendor's website and require payment by credit card. Boarding - Crossroads Christian Academy does not operate boarding facilities. Transportation to and from school is the responsibility of parents; school transportation for extracurricular activities is arranged on a per-activity basis with outside providers. Refunds and withdrawal-related charges - Entrance fee and registration fee: these fees are required to secure enrollment and are nonrefundable. - CCAOnline and other course-specific refunds: refund and withdrawal rules vary by course type. There are no refunds for Dual Credit courses; partial refunds for paid online courses are handled according to the CCAOnline registration form and the vendor's stated policy. Specific partial-refund amounts and timelines are described on CCAOnline registration materials. - Monthly-service refunds: some monthly service fees (for example the monthly before-school supervision rate) are not refundable if unused; other item-specific refund rules (e.g., for paid extracurriculars or special programs) are applied as described at registration for those services. Accepted payment methods and payment instructions - Payments may be made online or at Banco General branches using the school payment booklet; confirmation of online payments should be sent to the school office to ensure correct posting. Payments may also be made to the school's stateside bank account; families should contact the school office for the specific stateside bank instructions and wiring details. Checks from U.S. banks may be deposited to the local account but typically require an additional processing fee (an example fee is USD 21.40 to cover local processing). - FACTS (school billing platform) is used for account management and billing statements; late fees are applied automatically through the billing platform when payments are late. - Hot lunch payments are handled directly by the lunch vendor and require credit-card payment on the vendor site. Some transcript or document fees may require payment by credit or debit card. What the annual tuition covers - The published tuition figures include core textbooks, the yearbook, standardized testing in elementary grades, and required online class access for high-school graduation where applicable. Additional items such as tickets or food for special events, optional extracurricular activities, special course fees (AP, dual-credit, or vendor online course fees beyond the baseline), field trips, lunch, and some activity-specific costs are billed separately. Key enforcement and account conditions - Students may not begin the school year if outstanding balances from prior years remain unpaid. The first monthly payment and annual technology fee must be paid by the start-of-year deadline (examples show these due no later than August 1 in published materials). Families with outstanding balances are restricted from receiving report cards, transcripts, and access to certain services until the account is cleared. Subscriptions to the 10-month plan and late fees are enforced per the published billing schedule.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required and vary by grade. Preschool uniforms include color shirts (red, yellow, turquoise) with blue pants and a Balboa emblem sweater. Kindergarten to 6th grade wear burgundy tops with blue pants and a Balboa emblem sweater; 7th to 11th grade wear light blue or white polo shirts with blue pants and a Balboa emblem sweater; 12th grade wears a black polo shirt with blue pants and a Balboa emblem sweater. The Physical Education uniform is a white Balboa T-shirt with blue pants, with burgundy options for girls.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required for all students; the full uniform can be purchased at Galapagos Xpress in the El Dorado Mall.
Food options	Food options Lunch is provided daily through Yaya's Kitchen, with meals chosen in advance from the monthly menu.	Food options There is no lunch program; students bring packed lunches to school.
House system	House system Balboa Academy uses a house/tribe system: Color Teams in Elementary School, Dragon Tribes in Middle School, and Dragon Houses in High School. A student council exists at each level, and the High School Dragon Houses elect the DRACO council to plan and approve HS events; Middle School and Elementary students also run councils that organize activities and charity drives.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Balboa Academy is a private day school founded in 1999. It is fully accredited by Cognia, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council, and Panama's MEDUCA; it is MEDUCA-recognized. It is a member of the International Association of College Admissions, American School Counselor Association, The National Honor Society, and the Association of American Schools in Central America Council. Balboa Academy is part of Inspired Education Group.	Governance and ownership Crossroads Christian Academy is a ministry of Crossroads Bible Church. Founded in 1997, it serves K4 through 12th grade as a US college/university preparatory school. It is fully authorized by MEDUCA and accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI); it is a member of Tri-Association and AASSA and follows the US academic calendar (August through June) with a dual diploma – United States and the local Panamanian certificate.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Balboa Academy provides PK3-12 with a US standards-based curriculum and English as the language of instruction. The middle school offers courses in English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Sciences, Modern Languages, Computer Science, and an Encore curriculum, with accelerated options and Panama-required courses taught in Spanish. The school operates on a 180-day calendar with two semesters (August to mid-December; mid-January to mid-June). The high school offers 19 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 4 PreAP courses; AP subjects include Art History, Biology, Calculus AB, Comparative Government, Computer Science Principles, English Language, English Literature, Environmental Science, Human Geography, Physics 1, Psychology, Seminar, Research, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, Statistics, Studio Art 2D, Studio Art Drawing, and World History. The AP Capstone Diploma is available for students who complete at least 4 AP subjects in addition to AP Seminar and AP Research. All Balboa Academy graduates earn both a U.S. high school diploma and a Panamanian Bachiller en Ciencias y Letras.	Curriculum details Pre-K through 12th grade curricula meet Panamanian and U.S. standards and include a dual diploma program recognized in both countries. The school provides an English-language, Christian education with Spanish taught as a language; classes are small, averaging 13 students. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and is authorized by MEDUCA. Advanced coursework includes dual-credit and AP options, with SAT/ACT testing available for 9–12 and frequent focus on college readiness. A North American High School diploma requires 25 credits and 80 hours of community service, with a local Panamanian diploma option; MAP assessments guide K5–9 and PSAT/SAT pathways exist for college preparation. 92% of graduates move on to post-secondary institutions.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Classes average 13 students per class. All teachers are fluent English speakers, with foreign language instructors as exceptions.
Exam results	Exam results In 2023, 210 Balboa Academy students took 403 AP exams, with 77% scoring 3+ on at least one AP exam.	Exam results Students are evaluated with MAP (K5–9) and PSAT/PSAT-style assessments; high school students take PSAT 8/9 and may take SAT, ACT, and AP exams. Final exams or projects are administered in all core subjects; high school finals count as 20% of the semester grade. Grades in grades 9–12 require passing with 60% or higher to earn credit; advanced courses are graded on a 4.5 GPA scale to reflect increased content.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Class of 2025 received 779 university offers, with an average of 13.4 offers per student and an average of $848,000 in scholarships awarded per student. Graduates have gained admission to universities across the United States, Canada, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Panama; institutions include McGill University, University of Toronto, Western University, Columbia University, Georgetown University, Duke University, University of Florida, and University of Michigan, among others.	Higher education progression 92% of CCA graduates immediately move on to post-secondary institutions in Panama and around the world. The school supports college readiness through a North American diploma, local Panamanian diploma options, and access to SAT/ACT/AP testing.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Balboa Academy offers a rigorous AP program with 19 AP courses and 4 PreAP courses. AP Capstone Diploma is available for students who complete AP Seminar and AP Research along with at least 4 AP courses. AP courses receive a GPA weighting of 0.5.	Gifted and talented Advanced coursework is available, including dual-credit and AP courses to challenge students. Students in grades 9–12 may take SAT, ACT, and AP exams with guidance from the college counselor. Advanced courses use a 4.5 GPA scale to reflect higher content and workload.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning SEL is provided to all students and their parents. The Elementary School Counseling Program uses a three-tiered approach to social-emotional learning. It develops five social and emotional competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Through bi-monthly storybook-based mini-lessons for 1st–4th grade, students learn developmentally appropriate social-emotional skills such as making and keeping friends, empathy, compassion, and self-regulation. Some students participate in focused groups (e.g., new students, Girls in Real Life Situations) and peer mediation meetings, and Escuela Para Padres meetings provide tools to help parents support their children. Balboa Academy high school counselors work with students to support college-bound planning and personal development, and counselors are active members of professional associations related to college admissions.	Social & emotional learning The school provides Counseling Services to guide academic, behavioral, vocational, and social-emotional needs from preschool through high school. The Counseling Team offers Individual Counseling, Group Counseling, and College Counseling. Prevention Programs are conducted for topics such as Sexual Abuse and Harassment, Alcohol and Drugs, and Bullying. Parent Education Sessions are provided, and Learning Support is available through the Resource Specialist. Counseling aims to help students develop healthy relationships, maintain mental health, and apply biblical principles in their lives.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Honor and support classes are offered.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school has a Special Educational Needs policy. The Admissions Committee evaluates whether it can meet a student's needs and may request evaluations. The school abides by regulations regarding special education and strives to offer quality education that respects diverse learning styles. Parents requesting admission with special needs must provide diagnostic information; the school may arrange a shadow or special needs assistant if needed, with parental remuneration. Students with SEN are evaluated at intervals, and a Resource Specialist supports progress with the family.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Full English Immersion: Balboa Academy provides a comprehensive English language immersion experience starting from preschool.	English as an additional language The school teaches in English and provides an English-language education for Pre-K through 12th grade. All students accepted in 1st grade through 12th grade must be able to speak and write in English at their academic level.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Balboa Academy offers Social and Emotional Learning for all students and parents. Counseling programs across elementary, middle, and high school include classroom guidance, small group and individual counseling, student observations, parent conferences, mediation, referrals to services, and ongoing professional development for teachers. High School counselors work with students diagnosed with medical, psychological, behavioral, and/or social issues and promote family/parenting education and college counseling to support student wellbeing and success.	Mental wellbeing The school supports mental wellbeing through Counseling Services that address social-emotional needs and mental health. The Counseling Department provides Individual Counseling, Group Counseling, and Parent Education Sessions, as well as Prevention Programs on topics such as sexual abuse/harassment, drugs, and bullying. Counseling aims to help students develop healthy relationships, apply Biblical principles, and maintain adequate mental health.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Counselors promote mediation among students, parents, and teachers; they lead family/parenting education at school and maintain a list of community resources to refer students to when needed. This collaborative approach supports safeguarding and student welfare.	Safeguarding The school has a Child Protection Plan and policy. The plan includes training from ChildSafeguarding.com, and all adults in the school community have a role in Child Protection. The reporting of suspicions is made to the school Counselor for follow up with the CCA Response Team, and legal advisement may be sought. CCA is committed to protecting the physical and mental health of each child and will report abuse to appropriate authorities when necessary.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Balboa Academy's Ciudad del Saber, Clayton campus consists of three academic buildings for Preschool/High School, Elementary School, and Middle School, plus an Athletics Building that houses the gymnasium, Physical Education facilities, and the Dragon's Den. The campus includes athletic fields and recreational areas with playground equipment. It has over 80 classrooms and includes media centers, computer labs, science labs, and multipurpose rooms. The campus is adjacent to the Ciudad del Saber Sports Complex, which offers baseball, football, and soccer fields, tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a gymnasium, an auditorium, and fitness areas. The design supports specialization and individualized learning with teaching spaces tailored to each age group.	Facilities overview The school shares facilities with Crossroads Bible Church. All classrooms are well-equipped and air-conditioned. The campus includes a 25-station computer lab, an art room, a music room, a guidance office, an outdoor cafeteria, a playground, a covered gym, a science lab, and an elementary library.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Athletics Building includes the gymnasium, Physical Education facilities, and the Dragon's Den. The Ciudad del Saber Sports Complex, adjacent to the campus, includes baseball, football, and soccer fields, tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a gymnasium, an auditorium, and fitness areas. The campus also has outdoor athletic fields and recreational spaces for sports and physical education. Indoor and outdoor spaces support a broad sports program, enabling Balboa Academy students to train and compete on-site and within the larger sports complex. The facilities foster team practices, inter-school competition, and physical education activities across grade levels.	Sports facilities The athletics program includes basketball, soccer, and volleyball for middle- and high-school students, with programs for younger children. Practices and games follow seasonal schedules, with basketball and volleyball generally in fall and soccer in spring. The school is a member of ADECOP, the Association of American Schools in Central America (AASCA), and the Liga de Baloncesto Kiwanis (LBK).
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The facilities emphasize specialization and individualized learning with teaching spaces tailored to the needs of each age group. The campus comprises three buildings for Preschool/High School, Elementary, and Middle School, plus an Athletics Building. There are over 80 classrooms, as well as media centers, computer labs, science labs, and multipurpose rooms. The learning environment is designed to support a cohesive progression across grades, with age-appropriate resources and collaboration spaces. The Ciudad del Saber location provides access to additional resources and spaces that enhance academic exploration across disciplines.	Academic facilities Classrooms are air-conditioned. The school has a 25-station computer lab, a science lab, an art room, and a music room. An outdoor cafeteria, a playground, a covered gym, and an elementary library are also on site.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Balboa Academy participates in Exchange Programs and Global Camps through Inspired Education, allowing students to travel to other countries and collaborate with Inspired schools worldwide to develop social, language, and academic skills overseas. Inspired offers a range of specialist-led extracurricular activities that engage students in arts, sports, leadership, and other disciplines. Students benefit from summer camps, leadership conferences, and collaborative overseas projects as part of the international school community. The school's multicultural environment includes students from over 40 nationalities, fostering global engagement and experiential learning beyond the classroom.	Extra curricular facilities Athletics include basketball, soccer, and volleyball for middle- and high-school students, with programs for younger children. Fine arts are offered with elementary and secondary music and art programs, after-school clubs (Introduction to Music, Creative Card-Making, Drama), and a chapel band that practices weekly. High school students complete twenty community service hours per year through Community Outreach Opportunities. A Student Council exists to organize events, promote sports teams, and foster Christ-centered school spirit.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Balboa Academy is a private school in Panama City, located in Ciudad del Saber, Clayton. It began in 1999 with a vision to provide a US standards-based curriculum and English as the language of instruction. It is part of Inspired Education Group. The school provides two diploma programs, the U.S. diploma and the Panamanian diploma, and an AP program with 20+ courses. The current Ciudad del Saber campus will continue to offer Early Childhood and Elementary; a new Costa Sur campus opens in 2027 with a $30 million investment from Inspired.	History Crossroads Christian Academy (CCA) was founded in 1997 by a small group from Crossroads Bible Church and began with 29 students in Kindergarten through eighth grade. After Panama regained sovereignty of the canal in 1999, CBC leaders decided to keep the school open to expand community outreach and provide families with a Christian education option. The school now serves Pre-K through 12th grade with over 167 students and an average class size of about 13, representing more than 22 nationalities. CCA is an English-speaking school (not bilingual) and is fully accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), fully authorized by MEDUCA, and participates in Tri-Association and AASSA; it follows a U.S. academic calendar and offers a dual diploma (U.S. and Panamanian). The campus shares facilities with Crossroads Bible Church.
Community	Community Balboa Academy has students from over 40 nationalities. The school emphasizes integrity, empathy and respect, with a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment. School events are memorable and leave a lasting impression on students. Exchange programs and global camps through Inspired enable international connections.	Community Life at CCA emphasizes faith-based learning through Bible classes and chapel programs with small-group opportunities, praise and worship, testimonies, and solid Biblical teaching. All grade levels participate in community outreach and service projects, including mission trips and disaster relief collections, and athletes and student leaders are encouraged to demonstrate Christ-like leadership. The school offers Athletics, Fine Arts, Student Council, and Community Service as core programs that build community and culture.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual English is the language of instruction with a full immersion approach. Academic offerings include English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Sciences, Modern Languages, Computer Science, and the Encore curriculum. Accelerated options are available, and some Panama-mandated courses are taught in Spanish.	Academic & intellectual Academic Preparation emphasizes life-long learning, critical thinking, and strong language skills. Students demonstrate English language mastery and pursue Spanish competency while developing math and science proficiency. Cultural understanding and arts expression are fostered, and digital responsibility is taught.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Students develop artistic talents through music, fine arts, and drama. Music, fine arts, and drama are integrated into the middle school experience.	Arts & creative CCA offers music and fine arts as part of the curriculum. Elementary students have music and fine art classes, while secondary students may choose from a range of art- and music-based courses. After-school clubs include Introduction to Music, Creative Card-Making, and Drama, and the chapel band practices weekly and leads chapel worship. A Christmas program by elementary students and additional courses such as Painting, Music Theory, and Intro to Guitar accompany the program.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English is the language of instruction with a full immersion approach. Modern Languages are offered, and some Panama-mandated courses are taught in Spanish.	Cultural & language English language mastery is emphasized and students work toward Spanish competency. Students develop cultural understanding by examining how different cultures shape the past, affect the present, and influence the future. The program also includes exposure to an international environment and biblical worldview.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The After-School Program changes each semester and includes chess, sports, and arts and crafts. Middle school clubs foster collaboration and problem solving.	Social & hobbies Students have access to sports, arts, and student clubs that support social life and hobbies. The Athletics program offers basketball, soccer, and volleyball for middle and high school, with seasons in fall and spring. Fine Arts clubs and the chapel band provide additional outlets for creative participation. Student Council engages students in planning events and promoting school spirit.
Community & service	Community & service The Student Council is an elected group and serves as the voice of the student body. Community service includes Tuna Can Drive, Holiday Gift Boxes, and Disaster Relief. Field trips and international programs provide real-world learning experiences.	Community & service High school students complete twenty community service hours per year toward a minimum of 80 hours for the Panamanian diploma. Service occurs through Community Outreach Opportunities (COOPs), which may take place on Wednesdays, after school, or weekends. Transportation and supplies are provided or funded through the school community; an August outreach assembly introduces the program.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The middle school Student Council offers leadership opportunities and acts as the voice of the student body. The Tribe Program groups grades 5-8 into tribes to build leadership and citizenship.	Leadership & professional Leadership is developed through Student Council, a student-led organization with defined roles (President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary) and grade representatives elected for an academic year. Students gain leadership and professional skills through service opportunities and school activities. The Expected Student Outcomes include Leadership Skills, Organizational Skills, and decision-making within a biblical worldview.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Counseling services are available through the Counseling Program. Competitive sports teams and an after-school program promote physical activity and well-being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Life at CCA centers on spiritual development through Bible classes and weekly chapel programs. The school promotes mission trips and disaster-relief collections to encourage service beyond the classroom. Athletes and student leaders are expected to model Christ-like leadership and conduct.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school uses a U.S. standards-based curriculum with English as the language of instruction. Two diplomas are awarded—the U.S. diploma and the Panamanian diploma. English, French, and Spanish are taught, with subject specialists delivering instruction. The school is internationally accredited and part of Inspired Education, with a multicultural community of students from over 40 nationalities and opportunities for global camps and exchanges.	Language provision The school teaches in English for Pre-K through 12th grade.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school uses English as the language of instruction. French and Spanish are taught by subject specialists, alongside English. Preschool provides English immersion to start language development.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs English immersion is offered at the Preschool Stage. Based on neurological research, total immersion in a foreign language is the best way for children to learn, and class sizes are kept small to provide a language-rich environment, enabling them to acquire a second language as naturally as their first.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations ACSI; MSA-CESS; Meduca (Panama Ministry of Education); Association with AASSA; Mission Next partnership
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Make an enquiry by completing the Enquiry Form. The Admissions Team will contact you to arrange a visit to the campus. Complete Balboa Academy's online application and pay the $150 application and evaluation fee. Include copies of the child's passport, birth certificate, immunization records or the Immunization Form filled out by your child's pediatrician, copies of both parents' passports, and all academic records including the current school year's grades. Balboa Academy accepts copies in English or Spanish; originals translated into Spanish by a notarized translator in Panama are required by MEDUCA if records are not in Spanish. An in-person or virtual evaluation and interview will be scheduled. The evaluation for Preschool lasts about 30 minutes and for Kindergarten through 12th grade about an hour, and it is conducted entirely in English. The Admissions Committee reviews complete applications and makes a final decision within 10 calendar days. Students may be accepted without conditions, accepted with conditions, denied, or placed on the waiting list. If offered, enrolment fees are payable to join Balboa Academy. The school teaches in English.	Admissions 1. The online application can be started by clicking INQUIRE or APPLY on the Admissions page. 2. Meet admissions criteria. All applicants' parents/guardians must agree to have their child taught in the context of CCA's statement of faith. Space and staff limitations mean students with special educational needs are generally not accepted. All students accepted in 1st grade through 12th grade must be able to speak and write in English at their academic level. 3. Provide required application documents. These include the application form, the $100 application fee, birth certificate, and copies of IDs for parents, completed Director form from the current school, two teacher recommendations, a doctor health form, up-to-date immunization records, and school records (transcripts). International applicants must provide original records with an apostille where applicable; Panamanian local records require the Registro Académico Acumulativo with apostille as needed. 4. Grade-specific requirements. K3 applicants must be 3 years old by August 1 and potty trained. K4 applicants must be 4 by August 1, be potty trained, and able to eat independently; all Pre-K applicants are evaluated for readiness. K5 through 10th Grade applicants must be proficient in English and must pass an academic examination and interview; transfers from Panamanian schools may have additional considerations (e.g., not transferring in January, must maintain a 4.0 average, and must pass examination and interview). 11th Grade applicants are highly selective and require very strong prior records, references, and English ability; 12th Grade applicants are rarely accepted, especially if transferring from systems other than the US. 5. Apply online and plan next steps. Use the online application link to complete the process; schedule a visit if desired and contact the Admissions Coordinator for questions.
Scholarships	Scholarships The Nsouli Scholars Programme provides 50 full-scholarship places at Inspired schools at any one time for the duration of students' education. The endowment honours Nadim Nsouli, founder of Inspired, and scholarships are awarded with inclusivity in mind, including individuals of Lebanese origin.	Scholarships Financial Assistance: CCA offers limited financial assistance to families who demonstrate need. Financial assistance is awarded based on an evaluation of each family's situation, using both objective and subjective factors (including years associated with CCA, parental and student involvement, academic performance and character, and community considerations). FAST is used to collect, validate, and provide a specific recommendation for financial assistance, and the family is responsible for paying the FAST application fee of $60. Applications are due no later than February 28th of each year for the upcoming school year, which begins in August. Financial aid, when granted, is awarded for one year at a time and families must re-apply each year to demonstrate continuing need, with the student maintaining a GPA of 2.5 or above. Financial assistance is available for students in all grades (K3–Grade 12).
Waitlist	Waitlist Candidates may be placed on Balboa Academy's waiting list.	Waitlist —
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