About Us

The School of the World was founded in 1997. Our goal was to take a creative approach to learning by combining aspects of a language school, surf school, photography workshop and adventure travel, to create an unforgettable travel experience. To date we have hosted students from all across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Croatia, France, Germany, England, Holland, Iceland, Finland, Peru, French West Indies, Italy, South Africa, Switzerland, Norway, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Sweden, Scotland, Denmark, Tunisia, Austria, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Bahamas, Russia, Romania, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Argentina, New Zealand and Australia. The school's innovative programs have been featured in guidebooks, magazines, and newspapers from the U.S.A. to Hong Kong.

"Traveling is one of the best learning experiences a person can have, and it is more enjoyable when you have someone that can answer your questions and show you things that you would have otherwise missed. I have had some of the most incredible times of my life here in Costa Rica…from swimming with a whale shark to watching a simultaneous moonset and sunrise from the top of Mt. Chirripo. We (the staff) love teaching students about Costa Rica and one of the best parts of the job is watching students make their own life-long memories." -Zach McDuffie Co-founder of the School of the World

Zach McDuffie
Owner, Photographer, Designer, Artist

Zach first visited Costa Rica shortly after receiving his bachelor of fine arts degree from the University of Georgia in 1996. He fell in love with the healthy lifestyle, endless summers, and consistent surf conditions he found and moved back to Costa Rica permanently in 1997.

Zach came up with the concept for the School of the World based on a traveler's desire to learn about the world around him. The idea grew and the School of the World became one of the first in an emerging genre of travel known now as "learning vacations".

In 2002 Zach began designing and building the new facility, a building that contributes to the great vibe of the school through unique architectural design and artistic details. Costa Rica is home base for Zach now as he is currently pursuing his passion for photography, which takes him around the globe. He speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese and his interests include art, photography, design, surfing, sailing, fishing, diving, motorcycles, and guitar. You can follow his professional photography and personal blog at www.zmcduffie.com

Brian Phelps
Director

Brian and Zach have been good friends since their days at the University of Georgia. He came to Costa Rica with Zach in 1996, but returned to UGA and continued on to earn a masters degree in forest management, before moving to Costa Rica permanently in 2001. He speaks English and Spanish and enjoys spending time with his son Ben, surfing, woodworking, and fishing.

Hannah Glenn
Program Coordinator

Hannah first joined the School of the World family as a student in February of 2005. Originally from Boston, Mass., she wanted a change of pace from the States and decided to move to Costa Rica in October 2005. She returned to the school to continue learning Spanish, which helped with the transition of living in Costa Rica. Hannah is now fluent in Spanish, and in her free time enjoys photography, art, surfing, and going to the beach. Hannah started working at the school in December '07. She and Ricardo (head surf instructor) brought a baby boy named Kalani into the family in July 2008.

Alejandra Torres
Yoga Intructor

Alejandra is from San Jose, Costa Rica. She began practicing yoga at an early age and realized she wanted to dedicate her life to this discipline.  Her foundations are Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and Anusara Yoga.  Her goal is to teach a challenging and fun class, while helping the student connetc with their inner self.