Shanghai American School Mission Statement

Shanghai American School, in partnership with parents, fosters the development of each student's personal potential through a balance of the academic, physical, social, emotional and ethical aspects of life. SAS provides a challenging American core curriculum with an international perspective that inspires a passion for learning and intellectual vitality.

Shanghai American School Vision Statement

By 2012, the Shanghai American School will be recognized as a leading international school in Asia and the world by providing a rich cultural and social learning environment for families who seek an exemplary core American educational program. SAS will prepare each child for academic and personal success in higher education and life in a global society.

To accomplish this vision, SAS will:

1. Maximize benefits derived from the cultural and linguistic learning experiences in China and from the rich multi-cultural backgrounds of SAS families.

2. Provide well-balanced co-curricular activities and community service programs.

3. Serve, with honor and respect, a broad range of children as identified through a fair and well-defined admission process and complementary learning support programs.

4. Use technology in innovative and authentic ways to enhance learning and communication.

5. Create programs, assessments and experiences that serve to unite the school and to celebrate the distinctiveness of each campus community.

6. Engage and support teachers, administrators, and staff in a unique professional learning community that provides opportunities to grow, develop, and learn together in all aspects of their professional lives.

7. Be financially secure and constantly strive to assure future financial strength.

Shanghai American School Statement of Beliefs

Expectations For Students

• SAS students should demonstrate high-level skills for thinking and problem solving.
• SAS students should have a mastery of the core concepts and factual information needed to function effectively in our current and future society.
• SAS students should recognize the dignity and worth of others in the global community.
• SAS students should exhibit positive attitudes towards themselves.
• SAS students should exhibit an understanding and appreciation of Chinese language and culture.
• SAS students should exhibit attitudes for life-long learning.
• SAS students should exhibit a range of interests and skills beyond what is taught in the classroom.

• SAS should prepare students for acceptance into institutes of continuing education of their choice, including the finest universities in the world.
• SAS believes that school should be a happy place, where students gain satisfaction from genuine accomplishment in a supportive, caring and safe environment that nurtures student's social and emotional well being.
• SAS believes that education is a shared responsibility between parents and school.
• SAS should recognize the dignity and personal worth of each student.
• SAS should ensure sound resource management practices.
• SAS should provide a challenging education based on the American core curriculum, consistent with the individual academic capabilities and personal and social needs of each student.
• SAS should value its international diversity and the global perspectives found within its school community.