Our Classrooms

We believe in doing things differently—with intention, with passion, and with the children at the center of it all. At Samana International Academy, classrooms aren't confined by four walls. Learning happens in open-air spaces, under the shade of tropical trees, and out on the land where curiosity leads the way.

Small Classes, Big Impact

We strive to keep each student-to-teacher ratio less than 15:1, and every child receives the personalized attention they deserve. We also offer one-on-one tutoring for students who need extra support, ensuring no one falls through the cracks. Here, your child isn't a number—they're known, seen, and celebrated for exactly who they are.

Multi-Age Learning Communities

Our students learn in mixed-age groups that mirror real life:

• Kiwis (4K-5K)

• Mangos (1st-3rd)

• Coconuts (4th-5th)

• Dragon Fruits (6th-8th)

• Starfruits (9th-)

This approach allows younger students to learn from older peers while giving older students opportunities to lead, mentor, and deepen their own understanding by teaching others. We require testing to ensure proper academic placement so each child is challenged at just the right level.

What We Teach

Early Learners (Kiwis) explore pre-reading and reading, pre-writing and writing, phonics, spelling, math, social studies, nature studies, art, and music—all through play-based, hands-on discovery.

Elementary & Middle School Students (Mangos, Coconuts, Dragon Fruits) dive into English Language Arts, Math, History, Geography, Science, Foreign Language, Art, Music, Social Emotional Learning, Passion Projects, and Nature Studies—with real-world applications woven throughout.

High School Students (Starfruits) engage in a rigorous, purpose-driven program with both college-preparatory and career-track pathways. Coursework includes English Language Arts, Advanced Math, lab-based Sciences, History and Geography, Foreign Language, and the Arts. Students may pursue AP and honors courses, dual enrollment, and accredited diploma options, while benefiting from project-based learning, leadership development, and real-world experiences designed to prepare them for university admission, careers, entrepreneurship, and global citizenship.

Learning Beyond Textbooks

Our open-air classrooms and outdoor settings mean students don't just read about ecosystems—they observe them! They don't just study agriculture—they harvest coffee from our trees. Math becomes measuring garden beds or designing a compost bin. Science becomes caring for our chickens, ducks, rabbits, and peacocks. History comes alive through the rich culture of Samaná surrounding us.

We encourage outdoor play, hands-on projects, and yes—getting muddy! Because we believe the best learning happens when children are engaged, active, and connected to the world around them.

Parents Are Welcome Here

We deeply appreciate parent involvement! We encourage you to get involved by sharing your career expertise or passion with one or more of our student groups, volunteering during the school day, joining your child for lunch, or coming along on one of our monthly field trips. This is a community effort, and families are an essential part of our school's heartbeat.

A School Built with Love

In 2022, our family purchased a rustic building on a large parcel of land here in Samaná. Through sweat, determination, and maybe a few tears, we transformed that dilapidated structure into the beautiful school you see today. This project has been solely funded by our family because we believe deeply in this mission.

We envision a place where children from around the world learn alongside local Samanan children—where international students gain the values of this incredible community, and local children receive a quality education that will impact generations to come. Through these friendships and shared experiences, we're building something far greater than a school. We're building bridges, understanding, and hope.

Teachers Who Care

We're passionate about hiring educators who are dedicated not just to teaching, but to making a real difference in children's lives. Our teachers believe in this mission and show up every day ready to inspire, challenge, and support each student.

We've come to realize that our decision to move to Samaná was for the greater good. We hope to make a lasting impact on the lives of every child who walks through our doors, equipping them with knowledge, character, and confidence so they can flourish.

A Specialized Learning Path for Expat Families

Samaná International Academy (SIA) is an independent educational program and is not affiliated with or accredited by the Dominican Republic Ministry of Education. Our mission is to provide a specialized alternative to the traditional classroom setting, primarily serving expat or worldschooling families seeking a flexible, outdoor learning environment focused on hands-on, project-based learning. We invite you to be part of our journey!