About Us
Legacy Institute opened its doors 17 years ago with a simple idea: education shouldn't feel like a factory. We're a private school in Penonomé that focuses on actual learning—not just test scores. Our students work through real problems, engage with teachers who know them by name, and graduate with skills that stick. We've built something different here. Parents choose us because they want their kids thinking critically, not just memorizing answers. And honestly? That approach works.
Over time, we’ve built a reputation for reliability, quality, and clear communication. We treat each project as a partnership and aim for outcomes that last.
Our Story
Started in 2007, Legacy Institute began with 34 students and 8 teachers meeting in a renovated warehouse space. The founders—three educators frustrated with traditional schooling models—decided to try something else. Fast forward to now: we've grown to 287 students across grades 6-12, moved to a proper campus in 2014, and maintained our core belief that smaller class sizes and real relationships matter. We haven't chased trends. We've stayed focused on what works.
Company founded with a team of 3 passionate professionals
Expanded services and reached 500+ satisfied customers
Opened new headquarters and doubled our team size
Celebrated serving over 2,000 clients with 98% satisfaction rate
Our Approach
Our approach combines proven methods with modern tools. We start with discovery, align on goals, plan clearly, and execute with quality checks at every step.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Intellectual Honesty
We ask hard questions. We change our minds when evidence suggests we should. Students learn that knowing what you don't know matters as much as knowing facts.
Individual Growth
Every student develops differently. We track real progress—not just test performance—and adjust our approach to help each person build on their strengths.
Accountability
We follow through. Teachers, students, and parents all know what's expected. When something isn't working, we address it directly and honestly.
Community Over Competition
Sure, we have high standards. But we're not pitting students against each other. Success here means lifting others up, not standing on them.
Why Choose Us
Experienced Team
Our professionals have decades of combined experience. We've seen it all and know how to handle any challenge.
Quality Guaranteed
We stand behind our work with comprehensive guarantees. If you're not satisfied, we'll make it right.
Fair Pricing
Transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees. You'll always know exactly what you're paying for.
Proven Results
Thousands of satisfied customers and a track record of successful projects speak for themselves.
Meet Our Team
The people behind Legacy Institute
Marco Valdés
Founder & Head of School
Started teaching because traditional schools frustrated him. Marco leads with quiet conviction—he knows every student's name and what they're struggling with. Has a degree in philosophy and never stopped thinking about how education actually shapes lives.
Catalina Reyes
Director of Academics
Spent 11 years in public schools before joining Legacy. Catalina redesigned our curriculum to connect subjects in ways that make sense. She's obsessive about student outcomes and believes every kid can think at a high level.
David Chen
Dean of Students
Former counselor who handles discipline, mentorship, and the parts of school that happen outside classrooms. David knows when a student needs pushback versus support. He's fair without being rigid.
We’re a team that values ownership, clarity, and growth. We celebrate wins, learn fast, and keep client outcomes at the center.
Our Mission
We develop thoughtful, capable young people prepared for meaningful lives. Through rigorous academics and genuine mentorship, we help students discover what they're good at—and what matters to them. Education here means growth, not just grades.
Our Vision
A community where learning is personal, where curiosity drives discovery, and where every student leaves with confidence in their own thinking. We imagine graduates who lead with integrity and adapt with resilience in a changing world.