Discovery School
Web: www.discoveryschool.edu.hn
2008-2009
The Discovery School is a private, coeducational, international school that offers an American educational program from Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12. The school was founded in 1994 by parents and teachers who wanted a unique environment where children could develop their individuality and self-esteem through experimental learning and a unique strong academic curriculum. The school year begins in mid-August and runs through mid-June. The vacation calendar allows for some holidays customarily celebrated in the U.S. and all Honduran holidays. Discovery School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Honduras Ministry of Education.
Organization: The School is managed by the Discovery School Educational Association, through an elected 6-member Board of Directors and a U.S. Ambassador’s representative. All parents of currently enrolled students are members of the Association and participate in school governance through semi-annual General Assembly meetings. The School is a nonprofit, tax-exempt educational organization registered with the Honduran Ministry of Education.
Curriculum: The Discovery School’s curriculum is standards based and incorporates the acquisition of concepts and the development of skills. The standards which guide our curriculum development are those recommended by professional organizations in the U.S. We are committed to providing our students with a comprehensive educational program that is based on the latest research and utilizes up-to-date methods and materials. The high school program prepares students for universities throughout the world. All classes are taught in English, with the exception of Spanish and Spanish Social Studies, as required by the Honduras Ministry of Education. Spanish is taught at all grade levels and is practiced during field trips and community projects. Class sizes are small and may not exceed 18 students. The classrooms are organized with tables in a cooperative learning setting that emphasizes student-centered learning processes. Open carpeted areas are used for circle or discussion groups in the elementary classrooms. Instructional methods teach basic skills and concepts and encourage students to solve problems by thinking creatively and critically. Teaching styles emphasize hands-on activities that incorporate a variety of disciplines.
Faculty: In the 2008-2009 school year, there are 35 full-time faculty members, including 14 U.S. citizens, 1 host third country national, and 20 host-country nationals. All teachers have university degrees and teaching qualifications/ experience. Many of our classroom teachers have Master’s degrees in education from the Untied States, and the majority of our teachers are bilingual (English/Spanish).
Enrollment: At the beginning of the 2008-2009 school year, enrollment was 275. Of total, 72 were U.S. citizens, 126 were host-country nationals, and 77 were third-country nationals. Of the U.S. enrollment, 40 were dependents of U.S. government direct-hire or contract employees and 32 of other U.S. private citizens.
Facilities: In 2006 the School was relocated to a spacious 7-acre site on the ring road surrounding the city. The new campus consists of learning communities divided by grades and/or language. The open areas of the campus consist of approximately 1 acre of land used for athletic fields and outdoor activities, playgrounds for the younger children, a green space in the center of the campus and generous parking. The School also has an administration building, which includes specially-equipped rooms for music, art, computers, and a library with over 8,000 volumes. There is also a staff room, a conference room, and a teachers’ resource room.
Finances: In the 2008-2009 school year, 98% of the School’s income derives from tuition and fees. Annual tuition rates are as follows: PK: $2,060; Kdg. –5: $4,230; grades 6-8: $5,300; grades 10-12: $5,840. A one-time entrance fee of $3,000 is charged for each student. Bus fees are not included in the tuition, but the school does provide bus service for students. (All fees are quoted in U.S. dollars).
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