Start your journey at SAS
Over a century ago, our story began with a mere handful of students. Fast forward to today, and Shanghai American School proudly stands with two campuses, nearly 3,000 students, and a thriving community as diverse and dynamic as the city that cradles it.
Our History
1912-1921
At the turn of the last century, the schooling choices for pioneering American families in Eastern China were a British boys school, Miss Jewell’s Day School (described as fundamentalist even by missionaries), or a 4-6 week open ocean voyage back to the U.S. To meet the need, nine American missions in China came together to investigate and thus the plan for an American school in Shanghai was born.
1922-1931
The decade when Shanghai became known as the “Paris of the East” marked the construction of historic landmarks such as the Sassoon House (Peace Hotel), French club (Okura Garden Hotel), and Shanghai American School’s first purpose-built campus (we’re not just bragging, it was designated Heritage Architecture by the Shanghai government in 2005). Many of the students in this era were missionary children born in China, but they grew up in the American education and culture embodied at SAS.
1932-1941
Expats on vacation and unable to return to Shanghai. State Department evacuation orders. Few and expensive tickets back to America. This familiar story, of course, defined the decade leading up to the U.S. entry to the Second World War.
1942-1951
The fourth decade of Shanghai American School was the most tumultuous, starting with the days following Pearl Harbor in Japanese-occupied Shanghai. Although officially the school suspended operations, in actuality it continued to hold classes, though in different locations and under various names, thereby earning this period the “bootleg” designation. This could have been the end of SAS, were it not for the determination of one teacher.
1980-1989
After almost 30 years to the day, the U.S. consulate reopened and initiated the second iteration of Shanghai American School. By the end of the decade, SAS had secured a new Board of Directors and accreditation with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
1990-1999
The start of this decade was spent in temporary locations (sometimes affectionately known as “pit stop” campuses), but by the turn of the century SAS was starting to look like the “one school, two campuses” we know today.
2000-2024
To be sure, the current millennium has not been without its share of crises: the 2008 financial crisis, the 2020 pandemic, the 2022 lockdown. But broadly speaking, the growth and development of SAS has been on an upward trajectory, mirroring that of China itself. As we look back on the 110 years since its founding, we recognize that across the decades many lives have shaped SAS, which has in turn has shaped many more lives. We move into the future bearing the legacy of the past. And in time, we will become a legacy to those who follow.
Our campuses
Our campuses are like a pair of siblings whose bond extends beyond brick and mortar. The Pudong campus finds its serene sanctuary nestled near a nature reserve, offering a tranquil escape from the urban buzz. Meanwhile, the Puxi campus is located in the vibrant Minhang District, a bustling heartbeat of activity – a harmonious blend of natural serenity and city charm that mirrors the diverse experiences we foster at SAS. Students will find the same opportunities on either campus. And both offer unparalleled academic excellence.
Our People
Ever wondered who steers the ship? Get to know our leadership teams.
Our future
Our goal, always, is to take SAS forward. Whether it’s through revitalizing our spaces, embracing cutting-edge technology or incorporating updated scientific findings into our teaching, we aim to develop our students and our school in every way possible.
Annual Report
Every year we take a look back and tell the story of the year that was. Page through our Annual Report and you will discover we’re more than just a school. There’s so much more that we do to make SAS truly exceptional.
