The Oasis of ASF Mexico City

Senior Associates Jen and Bob Imholt recently visited the American School Foundation of Mexico City (ASF Mexico City). They toured the campus with Director Mark Sylte to see for themselves what makes this special school so attractive to international teachers.

Executive Director Sylte is completing his first school year at ASF Mexico City, and his pride in the campus and the history of the school is evident. ASF Mexico City has been around for 130 years, starting as a kindergarten back in 1888. The school has moved locations and grown significantly over time.  Today, ASF Mexico City’s 2,500 students study all three levels of the International Baccalaureate curriculum: the Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programmes. “The families here have a lot of love and pride in their school,” explained Mr. Sylte.

Nestled in an urban setting of the Las Americas neighborhood, this large and bustling school feels like a little oasis in the city—from its beautiful grounds with flowering trees and plants to its roof top gardens with many species of local cacti. If you want stunning views of the surrounding mountains and city, you can find them from the tennis courts on the roof.

Wind your way through the paths on campus, and you’ll see creative and colorful student art in the form of murals and more. Because ASF Mexico City believes that the study of art and its expression are an important aspect in the development of well-rounded individuals, the school offers visual and performing arts classes in Grades K–12.

At ASF Mexico City, students can participate in a variety of sports, and the campus has the facilities to support it! From the indoor pool, large gym, and expansive weight room to the huge outdoor sports field, there are plenty of places for students and teachers to be active. The school even boasts American football as a sport, a rarity in a region where futbol (soccer) is usually the norm!

Many of the buildings have an open-air feel, with lots of sunlight, high glass windows, and even trees growing up through the common areas. Mr. Sylte explained that several proposed building and renovation projects will be in the works in the coming years as the school continues grow.

Jen, organizer of the NEW Latin American Fair, held in Panama City in November, loves visiting member schools and taking in the sights of members schools in the region!

Mexico City is a wonderful place to consider for international educators. A city and school rich in history and tradition make for a fascinating place to live and work. Check out ASF Mexico City! At present, the school is looking to fill four positions: high school biology; elementary, Grades 4–6; and specialists for the elementary and high school library/media centers.