Christian Immersion Spanish Academy

  Costa Rica

• Central Pacific Coast: 
Turrialba

Description: CISA was created with the purpose of giving people the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Spanish culture within a Christian context. Our school is located in the beatiful village of Tuis, Turrialba, in the province of Cartago, Costa Rica.

Regular Program

The Regular Program is designed for students who would like a general and overall experience of doing both Spanish lessons and some community service within the Mission. It is a good way of getting the most out of your experience in Costa Rica in a condensed time-frame.

Children's program

The Children's Program is designed for families with children between the ages of 4 -12 years old. The children are given the opportunity to be involved with learning Spanish in the school, as well as take part in the Mission activities. This will give parents the assurance that their children will have gained a more meaningful experience during their stay in Costa Rica. At the same time, parents can participate in their own program.

The Group Regular Program

The Group Regular Program is designed for small groups who would like to participate in a variety of activities together. They will be able to learn Spanish in the school, as well as use their gifts and talents for ministering at the Mission. The group will also take part in a small worship seminar and join in the rest of the Mission services. They also will be able to explore Costa Rica by participating in 2 day trips.

Highlights: Highlights of CISA

Classroom
The classroom environment is unique in that the students will have individual attention in small group settings of no more than four at one time. It is p rofessional setting with all the necessary teaching and learning tools provided.

Curriculum
The curriculum has been custom designed by the directors of the school. They carefully wrote a series of workbooks that emphasize the most significant language structures that are necessary for learning Spanish. Students are assessed and use the workbook that suits their level. All of the workbooks are designed to develop reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Furthermore, the material contains biblical and cultural references which add relevance and meaning.

Service oriented program - At the beginning of your stay, you will have an orientation meeting with a representative from the school. You will discuss ways that you can use your skills and gifts that suit the needs of the mission. A plan will be generated that will suit your school schedule with that of the mission activities. At the end of each week you will visit with your leader to evaluate your progress and address any concerns. To gain the most from the experience, we recommend that you participate in the program for 6 weeks. However, it's possible to do shorter stays of up to 1 week.

Location/Campus - The school is located in the small village of Tuis, which is 20 minutes from Turrialba, the main city-centre. The campus is situated on a beautiful home property with outdoor/ranch style classrooms. The property sits next to a river, with palm trees and gardens surrounding the area. The bus from Tuis to Turrialba conveniently runs every hour and picks you up at a bus stop in front of the school. You'll find that Turrialba is a charming city that has everything that you could possibly need; banks, internet cafes, coffee shops, post office, used-bookstore, pharmacy, hospital, tourist shops, market, park, restaurants, and clothing stores. It is quite easy to find your way as you walk through the safe city streets. Tuis is only 1.5 hours from the capital city, San Jose, also home to the international Airport.

Flexibility - CISA offers a program that is flexible and caters to your learning needs and style. You have the freedom to coordinate your schedule to what you would like to do and see. You also have the option to intensify your learning by receiving tutoring at very competitive rates.

Lodging - The most unique aspect of our program is that you have the opportunity to live with a Costa Rican family throughout your entire stay. These families have been screened and have experience hosting visitors. They are generous and sincere Christians and love serving others. The houses are accessible and close to the school, which allows students to walk to school. Living with a family will enhance your experience and give you a first-hand look at the Tico culture. Your family will provide breakfast and dinner as well as maintain your laundry. However, if a student chooses not to live with a family, other living arrangements can be made by staying in a hotel or other locations.

Cost in US$: $390 / a week

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Costa Rica Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of 12 maximun

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview

Christian Immersion Spanish Academy in Costa Rica's Mission Statement: CISA was created with the purpose of giving people the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Spanish culture within a Christian context. Our school is located in the beautiful village of Tuis, Turrialba, in the province of Cartago, Costa Rica. Our objective is to teach Spanish in a specific Christian non-denominational environment which offers immersion experiences that are adaptable for beginners to advanced levels.

Year Founded: 2003