School FAQ's
Who are we?
Presbyterian Pan American School (PPAS) is a Christian, international, college-preparatory, boarding school in Kingsville, Texas, fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Established in 1911, PPAS motivates and equips young people for lives of Christian leadership in the global community. Students engage in a rigorous academic curriculum, develop spiritually in the Presbyterian/Reformed theological tradition, and gain senses of independence and personal responsibility through a disciplined daily schedule and communal work. Each year, 100% of our graduates are accepted into colleges and universities in their home countries or in the United States.
Who Serves?
Faculty members, many with advanced degrees, lead our educational ministry. Additional team members serve as dorm staff, coaches, counselors, a school nurse, an activities director, and a spiritual life director. They work in conjunction with local and remote administrative and development staff to maintain a comprehensive academic program and a life-giving community.
Who Benefits?
God changes the lives of each PPAS student, regardless of the number of years they are on campus. Young people attending PPAS hail from such countries as Mexico, China, South Korea, Rwanda, Taiwan, Colombia, and the United States. Students often come from missionary families and nations suffering significant violence. Our graduates go on to lives and professions that bring positive changes to the world by upholding the Christian ideals of love, service, and community.
Who Governs?
We are governed by a diverse Board of Trustees with representatives being elected by the Synod of the Sun, the National Presbyterian Church of Mexico, and the board itself. Operating revenue comes from the following sources: tuition, churches, individuals, foundations, endowment and auxiliary. Our operating budget and cost for annual tuition, room and board change periodically. Please see our website for details. www.ppas.org
Where Is Presbyterian Pan American School?
We are located on a 670-acre ranch five miles south of Kingsville, Texas in Kleberg County, a short drive away from Texas-famed King Ranch. Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP) is about 40 miles from the school, and our physical address is 223 N. FM 772, Kingsville, TX 78363.
How Do Prospective Students Find You?
Personal referrals are the most common way people learn about us. We have strong relationships with faith communities in Mexico, Rwanda, South Korea, and other countries throughout the world. Prospective students often find us through an online search for a Christian school in the U.S.
What Challenges Do Young People Face When They Get to Campus?
Like their age-group peers across the globe, PPAS teenagers are God’s children, doing their best to navigate the ups and downs of adolescence. As international students attending a boarding school, they encounter unique challenges, too. Many begin their journey at PPAS with little-to-no knowledge of English, and most of them have never been away from their home country nor their families. Our on-campus staff is trained to support each child, often providing both personal attention and peer-to-peer mentoring programs.
What Does It Mean to Be a Mission School?
PPAS was founded by the church to provide a quality education and a place for spiritual growth. Generations of students have gone on to become leaders in the church and their communities. This mission continues because of the ongoing support of churches and individuals.
Does PPAS Have Relationships With Colleges or Universities?
Yes. Schreiner University in Kerrville awards generous scholarship support to PPAS graduates through a multi-church collaboration. We also have partnerships with Coastal Bend College and Texas A&M University Kingsville, where students who qualify can take dual enrollment courses.
What Do Students Do When They Aren’t in Class?
PPAS provides a balance of work, play, extracurricular activities, social events, and spiritual development. Campus life is well-structured with study and personal time. All students participate in six hours of meaningful work per week on campus. Sports include soccer, baseball, volleyball, basketball, cross-country, track, and cheerleading. Students may join a variety of clubs, the choir or praise band, and also participate in 4-H. Weekends offer more flexibility, including social activities, and town outings.
Is There a Requirement to Be Presbyterian?
No. Though we are a Presbyterian institution, we welcome young people of all faiths. Our Director of Spiritual Life coordinates chapel activities, and is available for pastoral care.
How can I support the school?
Individuals and congregations who support our students are vital partners in our mission, as approximately 91% of our student body receives scholarship support annually. If you would like to make a tax-deductible gift, you may send a check to the school or make an online gift at www.ppas.org. using the "Donate Now" page under the "Support Pan Am" tab on the website. Additionally, your prayers for our students and their families are always appreciated.
How Do I Volunteer
We welcome individual and group volunteers throughout the academic year. Please contact the school’s Development office at 361-592-4307, ext. 1024 for more information