SASViewbook
- 2. We come from many places. We are headed many places. We use the world as our classroom and we learn from each person we meet. We are one international community, each committed in our own way to making a positive impact. We use our creativity and critical thinking to improve our future while helping others along the way. We believe as one team we can make a better world. We are dedicated to using courage to follow our dreams. We are Shanghai American School and we build futures.
- 4. Our Facilities 6 School divisions 1 Performing Arts Center 4 Libraries 1 Library Lecture Hall 31 Science labs 4 Gardens/outdoor learning spaces 170+ Busses 1 Science field station 2 Elementary computer labs 4 Cafeterias 6 Nurses offices 2 Eagle shops 1 Library Media Center 1 Greenhouse 1 Cooking lab 1 Solar research space
- 5. We Build Futures We were founded in 1912, Shanghai American School is China’s largest international school, with more than 3,400 students from 40 countries. We offer a pre-kindergarten through grade 12 program based on an American core curriculum. We are a private nonprofit, and nondenominational school set on two purpose-built campuses. We take pride in being a top-tier school in China and that 98 per- cent of our graduates move on to colleges and universities of their choice around the world. We are committed to our program that re- flects both our school community’s high expectations for academic rigor and the needs of our multinational student body. We are also deeply committed to our mission, which encourages all students to live their dreams. We encourage our students to pursue a wide range of interests beyond the classroom. In partnership with parents, we foster the development of each student’s potential by seeking a balance of academic, physical, social, emotional and ethical pursuits. We represent an international community of teachers, students, parents, counselors, psychologists, librarians, and more. Our teach- ers alone represent more than 40 countries, though nearly two- thirds are from North America. Nearly 60 percent hold master’s degrees or above. We believe that by offering our students a challenging American core curriculum with an international perspective, we will inspire a passion for learning and a lifelong commitment to intellectual vitality and global thinking that will pervade every aspect of their lives—now and as they build their future. “It’s all about our students! They are at the heart of all we do, and their learning is our focus every day. Our excellent academic and co-curricular program helps students become innovative learners with strong skills serving them well throughout their lives.” – Richard W. Mueller, Superintendent
- 6. High School Our high schools provide a college preparatory curriculum based in studies of our core subjects (English, social studies, mathemat- ics, and science). We also offer a broad range of options enhanced with an international perspective, including fine arts (music, art, and theater), global languages (Chinese, French, and Spanish for beginning through advanced-level language learners), physical and health education, and additional electives. Our aim is to create an environment of high achievement without antagonistic competi- tiveness, where academic rigor and creativity are celebrated side by side. Extensive college preparatory support is provided for all stu- dents by our team of experienced guidance counselors. Students at both campuses also have the benefit of choosing courses in the Advanced Placement program (AP), the AP Capstone Program, the International Baccalaureate program (IB), and the IB Diploma. Read more about these programs on the next page. SAS recognizes that a great high school experience cannot be root- ed solely in academics. For that reason, the school also provides students with opportunities to participate in interscholastic ath- letics, music, and drama. As a member of the Asian Pacific Activi- ties Conference (APAC) and the Association of China and Mongolia International Schools (ACAMIS) our students compete and perform with other schools from around the region. “Integrating technology into daily lessons al- lows the students to interact with the world at large, and it supports student driven learning. When kids enjoy what they’re working on they are more interested and they become better writers as a result of their commitment to the projects and work that we do.” – Marney Rosen, high school English and French teacher
- 7. Popular Elective Courses Applied Economics & Business Astronomy & Meteorology Band Creative Writing Criminal Justice Dance Digital Film Making Graphic Design History of Chinese Art International Relations Journalism Lifeguarding NASA Space Academy Orchestra Photography Publication Technology
- 8. International Baccalaureate Program and Advanced Placement High school students have the opportunity to explore more than 50 International Baccalaureate (IB) courses and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Shanghai American School is the only school in main- land China offering the AP, AP Capstone, and IB diploma programs as well as regular coursework.This variety and choice, guided by knowledgeable counselors and teachers, will help students pursue the best path for their success. In the IB program, students have the option of taking individual higher and standard level courses for certificates or for the full IB diploma.The IB diploma program, recognized by universities and schools around the world, ensures an increased adaptability and mobility for IB students.The core components of the IB program encourage students to participate in creative and service-oriented activities, while at the same time emphasizing the importance of reflection on a personal and academic level. Students who score well on higher-level IB examinations are eligible for credit at many universities. Through a spectrum of college-level Advanced Placement cours- es and exams, students have the opportunity to earn credit or advanced standing at many American colleges and universities. Students who choose AP courses should exhibit a strong curiosity about the subject and the willingness to work hard.Through col- lege-level AP courses, students study subjects in greater depth and detail. Students who sign up for AP coursework have the oppor- tunity to improve their writing skills and sharpen problem-solving techniques. University Matriculation Ninety-eight percent of SAS graduates matriculate to colleges and universities around the world. Some of the more popular schools our graduates attend include:Boston University, Duke University, George Washington University, Kings College London, New York University, Rhode Island School of Design, Stanford University,Tufts University, University of British Columbia, University of California, Berkley, University of Chicago, University of Hong Kong, University of Illinois, University of Southern California, University of Toronto. “The college acceptance process is a journey for our students and their families. We work closely with students and parents, identifying each student’s strengths to match them with the best colleges and universities to help them reach their individual goals.” – Rachel LeCoq, High school counselor
- 9. AP Courses Offered 2-D Studio Design Biology Calculus AB Calculus BC Capstone Seminar Chemistry Comparative Government and Politics Computer Science Design (Photography) Drawing Economics English Language & Composition English Literature & Composition Environmental Science European History Music Theory Physics 1 & 2 Physics C Psychology Statistics US History World History IB Courses Offered Biology Chemistry Chinese A: Language & Literature Chinese A: Literature Computer Science Economics English A: Language & Literature English A: Literature Environmental Systems & Society (SL only) Film French ab initio (SL only) French B Further Math History Mandarin ab initio (SL only) Mandarin B Math Math Studies (SL only) Music Physics Psychology Self Taught Language Social and Cultural Anthropology Spanish ab initio (SL only) Spanish B Sports, Exercise & Health Science (SL only) Theatre Theory of Knowledge Visual Arts *Unless otherwise noted, courses are offered at the standard level (SL) and higher level for both years of the IB diploma program.
- 10. Middle School We combine a rigorous academic curriculum with a wide range of supplementary student activities in grades 6 through 8.The Middle School program focuses on the needs of adolescents. We provide a nurturing environment where strong relationships, social respon- sibility and academic excellence are encouraged and enhanced through small learning communities within each grade level. All students participate in year-long core courses in language arts, math, social studies, science, global languages, physical education and music. Semester programs in health and art are also offered. Student choice is provided through the Exploratory and After School Activities programs. Students participate annually in week-long host country cultural experiences through the China Alive program. However, a highlight of the Middle School program is the Microcampus experience. Grade 8 students may choose to participate in this four week off- site interdisciplinary experience that allows students the oppor- tunity to explore, research, and experience Chinese culture in an authentic environment. “Through innovative teaching, students gain the skills to critically-think and communi- cate beyond the classroom. SAS middle school creates an environment of self-empowerment where students feel emotionally connected to their learning, which ultimately drives their motivation to make a difference in this world.” – Lisa Fung Kee Fung, grade 6 science teacher Popular Cocurricular Activities 3D Modeling A Cappella Amazing Race Art of Movie Making Chinese Reading Club Creative Writing Dance Studio Eagle Ambassadors Elite Touch Rugby Academy Floor Hockey Global Issues Network LEGO Robotics Middle School Munchies Model United Nations Physics of Sailing Rockets & Flight Roots & Shoots Sister School Project Wake Up, SAS! Woodshop
- 13. Elementary School Our elementary school curriculum is based on our belief that all students have a natural passion for learning and are inquisitive and responsive to learning opportunities. Students are engaged in authentic learning experiences that encourage them to be excited by learning and successful in the future.The average class size in elementary school is nine students to one teacher and teaching as- sistant. Students also have the opportunity to visit a variety of spe- cialist teachers throughout the day, including art, music, Chinese, PE, and the library. Our elementary curriculum is designed to sup- port the social and emotional growth of all children, while preparing them for more rigorous study later on in middle and high school. “Real life learning is important at this age because this is where we’re creating habits of mind. It’s never too early to start making meaningful connections to what students are learning. Our ultimate goal is to give them that lifelong passion for learning.” – Eric Paci, grade 5 teacher Popular After School Activities 3D Model Building Board Games Dance Eaglets Climbing Club Fencing Program Football Club Kickball Kids’ Yoga Knitting Mini Glee Club Origami Club Photography Roller Blading Scale Model Building
- 14. Early Childhood Program Our early childhood program focuses on the whole child and is designed to build a foundation for a lifetime love of learning. More than just beginning to build the skills to read, write, and count, it’s also a time when motor skills are still developing, the body is grow- ing, and children are learning to use language, make friends and socialize, manage emotions, problem solve, and reason.To build a strong foundation the SAS early childhood curriculum is stu- dent-centered and focused on the whole child.Throughout the day play is encouraged and technology is used. In addition to the core curriculum, students also attend PE, Chinese, art, music, library visits, swimming lessons, and visits from counselors. “The older the students become, the more seg- mented their studies become. What our early childhood program does a good job of is bring- ing everything together. The students learn through their own lives and the experiences around them—it’s a more 21st century approach that even adults can learn from.” – Shawn Colleary, elementary school principal
- 16. Chinese Program We offer a comprehensive Chinese language acquisition and devel- opment program.The program aims to develop Chinese language knowledge, communication skills, intercultural understanding, and a global-minded disposition. Almost 2,400 students with differ- ent backgrounds and skill sets are enrolled in Chinese classes at SAS.The Chinese staff, nearly 40 highly professional teachers and teacher assistants, devote themselves to our students, nurturing them to become successful and confident communicators in the Chinese language. We take a student-centered approach to teach- ing and learning Chinese, and promote real-life learning experienc- es. Our students are encouraged to go beyond the classroom, inter- act with the world surrounding them and foster respect for cultural diversity. “.” – Eric Paci, grade 5 teacher
- 18. Athletics SAS has one of the most extensive athletic programs among inter- national schools in Shanghai. In the elementary school students can participate in basketball, soccer, yoga, rock climbing, swimming, and golf. In middle school students participate in competitive sports that include touch rugby, soccer, cross-country, table tennis, floor hock- ey, volleyball, badminton, basketball, track and field, softball, and swimming. In high school students participate in JV and varsity competitive sports that include baseball, volleyball, rugby, tennis, golf, cross country, swimming, basketball, table tennis, soccer, track and field, softball, and badminton. “Our aquatics programs are just one of the awesome opportunities students have to stay active at SAS. We introduce a safe, fun, and energetic unit to all students dur- ing their PE lessons from Pre-K to Grade 10, combined with a swim team program that is highly com- petitive in Asia.” – George Carpouzis, aquatics director Athletic Facilities 2 Aquatics centers 2 Running tracks 2 Baseball fields 2 Softball fields 3 Soccer fields 2 Multi use fields 5 Playground areas 7 Gymnasiums 2 Rock-climbing walls 1 Performing Arts Center 1 Auditorium 2 Fitness centers
- 21. Arts We offer fine and performing arts classes from pre-kindergarten through high school.The foundation is set in elementary school for students to grow into confident artists and performers who are able to push the boundaries of a given medium. In fine arts, stu- dents learn to relate the visual arts to their lives and apply skills to creatively communicate through art. Students explore meaningful connections with other art and artists, a variety of subject areas including drawing, sculpture, photography, pottery, and digital arts. The fine arts curriculum encourages students to learn by taking risks through inquiry-based experiences that foster creativity. Through the performing arts program, students participate in music classes including orchestra, band, choir, and drama from pre-kindergarten through high school. Students perform through- out the school year, and have the opportunity to travel and perform in festivals in middle and high school.The performing arts support our core curriculum and help students develop in self-confidence, imagination, collaboration, and intercultural communication. “The art program at SAS is more than just teaching students about the world through the lens of art. Students are encouraged and trained to express themselves artistically, but the art classes are also used to reinforce concepts that students learn in other disciplines. They learn how everything is connected.” – Joan Lueth, fine arts teacher Fine Arts Facilities 4 Black Box Theaters 1 Performing Arts Center 1 Auditorium 2 Dance studios 15 Soundproof practice rooms 1 Art gallery 1 Video studio 2 Green screen rooms 2 Kiln rooms 1 Recording studio 18 Art studios 15 Music rooms
- 22. Cultural Programs and Activities Students at SAS have many opportunities to learn about and ex- plore the culture of our host country. Students from grade 6 to 10 participate in China Alive—an annual destination learning expe- rience that takes students for a week around China. Additionally grade 8 and 9 students have the opportunity to spend a month at one of our two microcampuses where they participate in an inquiry based program to study the regions of Yunan and Lushan.There are numerous other opportunites for trips to our Wuxi Science Field Station at Lake Tai, forensics tournaments in Beijing, or trips to the local market to practice Chinese. Our students are also global citizens and participate in and lead many projects, clubs, and organizations that contribute to the over- all wellbeing of our world. We constantly have students travelling globally—from our partner school in Malawi to Model United Na- tions trips to Qatar. Students also contribute to the world locally by participating in the popular Roots & Shoots environmental club or even discussing the environment through live teleconferencing with schools in North America. Popular Cultural and Civic Clubs and Programs 30-Hour Famine Animal Rescue Club China Alive Community Service Club EggsChange English Service Club Global Issues Network Habitat for Humanity Jacaranda School Partnership Lushan Microcampus Make a Child Smile Model United Nations Operation HOPE Relay for Life Roots and Shoots Sister School Project Social Responsibility Foundation Yunan Microcampus
- 24. Shanghai American School inspires in all students: 上海美国学校激励并培养所有的学生: • A lifelong passion for learning 终身学习的热情 • A commitment to act with integrity and compassion 诚信与仁爱的信念 • The courage to live their dreams. 追求梦想的勇气。 Pudong Campus Shanghai Links Executive Community, 1600 Lingbai Road, Sanjiagang, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China 201201 Tel: 6221-1445, Fax: 5897-0011 Puxi Campus 258 Jinfeng Road, Huacao Town, Minhang District, Shanghai, China 201107 Tel: 6221-1445, Fax: 6221-1269 www.saschina.org info@saschina.org