Education

There are a small number of homeschoolers (using the definition most used in the US), as well as a large number of small private schools.  Some of these schools have as few as 4 students per class.  In Jamaica, many people call these very small schools "homeschool".  The American School of Kingston uses American curriculum/philosophy, but is expensive.  It costs about $15,000 per year, many of the students (about 200) are children of diplomats.
Hillel Academy is another great school, typical of what you would find in a "good, suburban" American school.  Approximately 800 kids K-12, class size 25 students.  Hillel has a large number of extracurricular activities and is a very close-knit community.
Homeschooling can be done and is becoming much more popular now than in the past.  However, be warned that the HS experience here will be diff't than in the US.  The libraries are extremely limited and there is not the same level of extra activities commonly found in the States.  That said, the availability of inexpensive help, both household and private tutors, allows us to participate in many activities (at home and outside) than when in the US.  Also, people here tend to more self-sufficient and multi-talented.  It is like living in an urban area with a rural mentality.  Most everyone can sew, build a bookshelf, grow significant amounts of food in their personal garden, identify edible plants/weeds and know natural healing methods (herbs to treat muscle spasms, etc). 

There are many wonderful opportunities here, but, again, they will be different than your experience in the states.

Hi All,

I'm in the process of moving to Jamaica in early 2010. I have a 5 year old...thanks for the school info--I was wondering the same thing. Is there a neighborhood/town where the American expats live? Is there a social circle? I intend to immerse myself in the culture, but I would also be happy to connect with other expats...