Mrs. Gladys Bryson, a foreign resident in Cali and an educator by profession, turned a room in her home in the San Fernando neighborhood into a classroom.
The school already offered classes up to 8th grade. Tuition fees were $20 pesos for Grades 1–8 and $15 pesos for Kindergarten. Principal: Elizabeth Cooper.
The school’s name was officially changed to Colegio Bolivar because the previous name, Colegio Anglo-Americano de Cali, was too similar to Colegio Americano. In September 1952, the school obtained its legal status. Principal: Donald R. Thomas (1951–1954).
Each student brought their own desk. A kiosk was built for students to use during recess and lunch. Principal: George P. Young (1954–1958).
With a donation from the United States, an 18-acre piece of land was acquired for the construction of new school buildings.
The school received international accreditation from SACS/CASI, now known as Cognia.
Under the leadership of Mr. Dale Swall (1958–1970), six classroom and service buildings were constructed, and the school relocated to Pance, its current campus. At that time, enrollment reached 600 students.
A Summer School program began for elementary students whose families did not speak English at home. The goal was to help them maintain their English language skills during the summer.
The Swall Auditorium was built. Mr. Gengenbach began selling donuts and sandwiches from his food truck.
A Summer Course was launched for employees’ children, where volunteer teachers provided English literacy lessons free of charge.
The John P. Lee Gymnasium was built, initially serving as the cafeteria. Sports such as golf and tennis were practiced, and student government was established for both Middle and High School. Other activities like the Chess Club, Scouts, and a music band gained popularity.
The Colombian Education Ministry approved Colegio Bolivar’s Colombian Study Plan.
The swimming pool was inaugurated. A soccer field was built, and the Library opened in Block G that same year.
The current cafeteria facilities were inaugurated. Dr. Martin A. Felton became the new Head of School.
The current parking area was built, and the Martin Felton Library was inaugurated.
The Science Building was inaugurated.
The Preschool music room was remodeled, and improvements were made to the main soccer field. A slide and locker rooms were built in the ecological park (soccer field area).
The cafeteria dining area was reconstructed, replacing the old kiosks. Students presented various artistic performances.
New subjects and computer labs were introduced. All administrative offices were equipped with computers and internet access.
Dr. Joseph Nagy was appointed Head of School.
Opening of the Early Childhood Center “El Nido.”
Inauguration of Block J, expanding classroom capacity for the secondary program and electives.
The falcon was adopted as the school’s official mascot following a participatory process in which the Bolívar community voted.
Design of a 7-year Strategic Plan, a process that led to the establishment of Bolívar’s Values and the definition of the Deep Learning educational framework, with emphasis on the close connection between curriculum development and teacher competence.
Development of a Master Infrastructure Plan in three phases: Sports Complex, Fine Arts & Science Center, and Auditorium.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Nagy led the Academic Continuity Plan and the transition to virtual education, incorporating permanent digital tools, redefining the educational model and ensuring the pedagogical stability and well-being of the community.
A new Strategic Plan was created, renewing the Institutional Mission and consolidating the Graduate Profile. Objectives for Well-being, Personal Development, Innovation, and Sustainability were defined, projecting the school into the future.
Construction begins on the second phase of the Sports Complex, covering 8,200 m² and including a three-level building with a main arena, multipurpose covered courts, gymnastics rooms, faculty offices, cafeteria, storage areas, and parking spaces.
The “Carla Uribe de Ravassa” preprimary and primary school gymnasium has been inaugurated. For over 30 years, the gymnasium, known to many as “Mafalda,” served as a playground for games, physical education classes, and unforgettable moments for generations of students. This space has been completely renovated to promote the well-being, athletic development, and overall well-being of our students.
Dr. Joseph Nagy retired from the rectorship after more than 20 years, during which he led the College with vision and purpose, strengthening its identity and projecting its growth into the future.
Dr. Jessica Marie Gilway assumed the role of head of school, bringing extensive experience in international school leadership, educational innovation, and institutional development. Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions in institutions across Latin America and the United States, spearheading strategic growth initiatives and promoting an education focused on personal excellence and student learning.
