“Combining Christian values with academic excellence,” Principal Oliver Pedrozo captures the school’s mission statement perfectly. Originally established to serve the German-speaking Mennonite community, Colegio Alemán Concordia has since opened its doors to families from diverse backgrounds, especially expats seeking strong values and structure.
With around 40% of students still German-speaking, the school continues to blend Christian principles, academic success, and cultural exchange. Parents appreciate the close collaboration and family-like atmosphere, while alumni often report feeling well prepared, both academically and personally, for the path ahead.
The Asunción Times reporter Alexandra Allover takes a look for herself!
Academic curriculum and languages
Colegio Alemán Concordia serves around 480 students, with a dedicated team of 50 teachers. The school keeps class sizes small, about 20 students each, to ensure personalized attention and support.
Although Concordia is a German school, children can enter kindergarten and preschool without any prior knowledge of the language. Immersed in a German-speaking environment, most young learners pick it up quickly. By the time they reach first grade, however, a basic level of German is expected.
In the early years, the emphasis is clearly on German. As students progress, Spanish gains importance, especially to develop the academic vocabulary required for university in Paraguay. German classes split students into two groups, native speakers and learners, to match instruction to each student’s level.
Known for its strong commitment to multilingualism, the school offers German (6–7 hours weekly), Spanish (5–6 hours), and English (4 hours, beginning in grade 7). Guaraní is also part of the curriculum (1–2 hours), serving as a cultural introduction.
In grade 9, a guidance test helps students identify their interests and strengths. From grade 10 onward, they choose between two academic tracks: Social Sciences or Natural Sciences – both designed to prepare them for higher education.
To support modern teaching methods, the school has recently made substantial investments in technology. In the upper grades, every classroom now features strong Wi‑Fi and large digital screens, creating a more engaging and future‑focused learning environment.
Why families choose Colegio Alemán Concordia
Many Spanish‑speaking parents choose Concordia for its discipline, academic excellence, and Christian values. They view German as a language of opportunity, and the school’s Mennonite morals as a strong foundation for learning responsibility and respect.
Expat families prefer Concordia’s structured yet supportive environment, bilingual curriculum, and close‑knit community. Teachers build strong bonds with students and parents, mentor when needed, and guide each child’s growth.
Special projects at Colegio Alemán
Concordia launched the school‑wide “Zero Violence” project to teach empathy, responsibility, and peaceful conflict resolution through stories, class discussions, and hands‑on lessons. Healthy habits are also a priority. The “Healthy Canteen” provides nutritious meals, and teachers discuss healthy‑eating topics in their lessons to nurture students’ well‑being.
Beyond academics, Concordia invites students to join extracurricular activities such as chess or soccer. While optional, the school strongly supports these activities as a way to develop friendships and social skills.
Finally, a particular highlight is the international exchange program for students in grades 9 and 10. Concordia partners with schools in Bielefeld, Germany, and Goshen, Indiana (USA), offering students the chance to experience full cultural immersion.
What do former students say?
Many Concordia graduates go on to take meaningful roles in fields like business, healthcare, and education. Alumni often describe their school years as both academically solid and personally meaningful – “like a family.” Many return to share success stories from universities in Paraguay, Germany, and beyond, crediting the school for preparing them intellectually and emotionally.
The secret to shaping tomorrow’s leaders
Concordia emphasizes real‑world experience. In 11th grade, students complete a one-week internship at a company of their choice, which they apply to on their own, gaining firsthand insight into the professional world.
University visits, excursions, and a social outreach project help students explore future opportunities. A school psychologist works with students to identify personal strengths, develop leadership skills, and build the confidence they’ll need beyond graduation.
Principal Oliver Pedrozo is proud of the school’s direction and continues to emphasize a blend of Christian values and strong academics. With the goal of shaping students who make a positive impact on the world around them.
To learn more or begin the application process, visit the website of Colegio Alemán Concordia or contact the school office directly.
