Colegio Americano de Quito opened its doors on October 14, 1940 with 162 students, offering a secular education based on democratic values. Its founders – Galo Plaza Lasso and Boaz Long, representative of the United States Government – began a long relationship between the two countries educating future leaders on principles of equality, active participation, freedom of expression and respect for others.

The founders lived in a fascist era and, with a timely vision, determined the need to educate young people with deep democratic principles. The fulfillment of this vision is evident in the long list of outstanding students in politics, finance, industry, law, medicine, art, music, education and journalism, among others.

Throughout its history, Colegio Americano – its personnel and students – have obtained national and international recognition for achievements in academic, sports and cultural areas.

Currently the American College of Quito has 2,240 students – from Nursery to Twelfth Grade – and has among its students the children and grandchildren of the first families. It is a mixed, private, secular and non-profit institution. The School is accredited by AdvancED and the Ministry of Education of Ecuador. In addition, it is recognized by the International Baccalaureate Organization and offers three programs: PYP (Primary Years Program), MYP (Middle Years Program) and IB (Diploma Program). Graduated students can obtain three diplomas: one accredited in the United States, the diploma of the Republic of Ecuador and the diploma from the International Baccalaureate.

The original vision and philosophy remain the basis of the School and become evident in our mission:

“To educate with excellence, in an environment of liberty, responsibility, and democracy, well-rounded human beings with integrity, committed to their well-being, that of society, and the environment.”

Colegio Americano de Quito celebrates [insert_php] $Y=’1940′; $m=’12’; $d=’08’; echo date(“Y”)-$Y; [/insert_php] years with a history full of remarkable people and extraordinary achievements  reflected in national events with an optimistic vision of the future.