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Dedicated to personalized educational excellence

Cayalá Learning Academy is a premier educational institution in Guatemala founded in 2012 by certified professionals. We offer an independent, college-preparatory environment that delivers world-class academic quality through international and U.S. accreditations, serving both national and international students from grades 6-12.

Students learning

Educational Approach

Our Philosophy

At Cayalá Learning Academy, our philosophy is simple: education should fit the student, not the other way around. Over a decade ago, we recognized a critical need for an academic environment that could offer elite, globally-recognized standards without the rigid, one-size-fits-all constraints of traditional schooling in Guatemala.

Today, we are proud to see our alumni thriving in top-tier universities worldwide, excelling in professional sports, and leading in the arts. Our blended model ensures that students can pursue their passions at the highest level while securing an impeccable, internationally accredited academic foundation.

Customized Curriculum

Offered through our partnership with Advantages International School (Nevada), fully accredited by Cognia and NCAA. Courses range from Standard to Honors and Advanced Placement. Each semester a student receives a legal transcript and graduates with a U.S. diploma.

Flexible Work Pace

Enroll at any time and progress at the right velocity. Ideal for athletes, artists, or frequent travelers. While successful students typically attend guidance sessions daily, we offer unparalleled adaptability to fit individualized life aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to common parent inquiries.

How long have you been open?
Cayala Learning Academy first opened its doors in Cardales de Cayala in 2012. In 2014, Cayala Learning Academy moved to Zone 15.
What are your hours?
Students are able to attend Monday-Thursday from 8:30-1:30 and Friday from 8:00-12:30.
What is your student to teacher ratio?
We maintain no more than a 5-to-1 student to teacher ratio.
What are the ages of your students?
Our students range in age from 12-18.
How many students do you currently have?
We currently have 25 students enrolled full time.
I train in a sport. Can I attend for less time every day in order to attend my practices?
Absolutely! The best part about homeschool programs are that they allow you to work at your own pace and schedule, which allows students to have more time for other activities.
Will I receive a discount if I do not attend every day?
In order to maintain our 5-to-1 student to teacher ratio, we cannot offer discounts to students that are not able to attend each day. The tuition to Cayala Learning Academy is a fixed monthly fee.
If my son/daughter takes vacation in December, will I need to pay tuition?
No, you will only be charged for the months you are working.
What virtual program do you utilize?
Our virtual program, in collaboration with US-accredited Advantages School International, offers a high-quality virtual education that is accredited by both COGNIA and NCAA. Our teachers customize the curriculum for each student, making it more effective and engaging. Additionally, parents purchase the program directly from our supplier, in order to pass on the best possible price to the families.
Can I complete any of the programs from home?
We understand that students may occasionally need to study remotely due to illness, travel, or tournaments. While our program is fully adaptable for remote learning, we strongly advise daily attendance to benefit from direct teacher support, hands-on labs, and a collaborative, structured learning environment.
Is your program accredited in Guatemala?
Our partner school is accredited by COGNIA in Reno, Nevada.
What is the process to move back to a traditional school?
The transcripts will need to be "apostilled" in the U.S. if you are transferring to a school in Guatemala or outside of the U.S. We help with this process. Link to steps here.
How many courses does my son/daughter take each year with your program?
On average, students typically enroll in 5 or 6 courses per year in the American virtual programs. Depending on the pace of the student and the amount of time he/she attends each week, he/she may be able to complete more or less courses each year. In total, a student needs to complete a minimum of 20 courses to graduate high school. If students work well, it is possible to graduate faster than a traditional school.
What is the process to transfer high school credits?
If your son/daughter has completed high school level courses which begin at 9th grade (US) or the equivalent of 2nd Basico (Guatemalan), he/she may be eligible to receive credits from the online school he/she is applying to.
How many credits will my child receive from their previous school?
Most students receive credit for up to 5 courses per year.
What is the process to enroll at Cayala Learning Academy?
1. Attend an informative meeting
2. Student interview during which the student will test the platform and academic content
3. Complete the application paperwork
4. Complete MAP English & Math exam for students transferring from non-American Schools
5. From Previous School we require:
- Transcripts starting from 9th grade
- Math and Science content starting from 9th grade
- Letter of solvency
- Teacher recommendation
When can my child start?
The American elementary and high schools allow students to begin at any time of the year. The online courses can be ready in as little as 3 days following purchase.
What is the monthly cost, including courses?
Before beginning with Cayala Learning Academy, you will need to purchase an online virtual program. The cost of the Advantages School International platform is $2225 annually. Cayala Learning Academy charges a monthly tuition of Q5,200. Please e-mail info@CayalaLearningAcademy.com for more details.
Do you offer any discounts?
Yes, if two or more family members attend, we offer a 10% discount. Additionally, some of the US programs also offer family discounts.
What days are you open?
You can access our calendar from the homepage of our website under the calendar tab or click here to view it.

Our Faculty

Meet Our Team

Jessica Garnant

Jessica Garnant

Director and College Counselor

M.Ed DePaul Univ, Chicago

Alexei Kestler

Alexei Kestler

Electives Professor

Math/Electives
Young Engineers BS Chemistry / Business

Debbie Grove

Debbie Grove

English & Social Studies Professor

BA Early Childhood Education, SFSU

Vivian Torres

Vivian Torres

English & Social Studies Professor

B.SC. Farmingdale State Univ. NY

Tamar Gonzalez

Tamar Gonzalez

Professor of Science & Math

BS Chemical Engineering, USAC

Juan Pablo Campos

Juan Pablo Campos

Math & Science Professor

Masters of Education, UVG

Campus

Our Installations

Explore our modern learning environment designed to inspire and support our students' academic journey.

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