Panama

Normal schools for secondary teachers started when Panama was becoming an independent country (1903). Currently, prospective teachers obtain their teaching certificate (Certificado de Maestro Normal) after successfully completing a three-year program. They attend a teaching training college (Escuela Normal) after finishing their secondary education. Secondary teachers must attend a university for four to five years and, if successful, after a year of further study, will be awarded a secondary teaching degree (Título de Profesor).

The Ministry of Education evaluates teacher performance annually. The evaluators include the principal, the supervisor, and the provincial director. Teachers themselves submit self-evaluations.