The SAS Legacy
Since our founding in 1956, before Singapore was even independent, Singapore American School has been on the leading edge of preparing students for their future.
When we opened our doors with just 105 students, our first classes were held in large colonial-style bungalows. A garage was the science lab; the servants’ quarters were used for music and preschool; and assemblies were held in the dining room. As Singapore grew, so did the school. In the years that we grew through four campuses, the school has always focused on creating a vibrant learning environment that is student-centered, international in perspective, engaging, active, and critical.
Over time, our defining characteristics have included the range of courses offered, the quality of leadership and faculty, the clubs and activities available, the quality of the campus, and its general atmosphere. SAS has come a long way in 65 years, just as the country in which it resides. SAS and Singapore have shared a similar journey—one of progress, modernization, achievement, and change.
Singapore American School holds a legacy as one of the world’s leading American international schools. Our decades of strong academic results matter to our families who value learning, and to our students who will make their own history as SAS alumni.
Opening
Singapore American School opens with 105 students
Recruitment
SAS recruits its first foreign-hire teachers to bring current American practices to the school
Advanced Placement
The Advancement Placement program begins at SAS when AP English is offered
Interim Semester
The first high school Interim Semester trips are launched
Singapore American Community Action Council (SACAC)
Singapore American Community Action Council (SACAC) is established to support the American community
Muhammad Ali Visit
Muhammad Ali visits the SAS campus, reciting his poetry for an hour
Individually Guided Education
The school begins to experimenting with a new approach called Individually Guided Education to meet the challenges of constant turnover and diversity of student background
Computer Classes Offered
Computer classes are offered as Interim Semester choices
Computer Science and Programming
SAS purchases 5 computers and offers formal classes in computer science and programming
Booster Club
The Booster Club is formed to help raised funds for athletics uniforms and encourage school spirit
Dance Program
The dance program begins at SAS with a handful of students, growing more than 100 within seven years
SAS Singers
SAS Singers is formed and the first Yulefest concert is held
Interim Semester Beyond Asia
Interim Semester trips expand beyond Asia to Greece, Hungary, France, Spain, Kenya, and Switzerland
President Bush Visit
President and Mrs. Bush visit SAS's Ulu Pandan campus, the first time a sitting American President is in Singapore
Diversity
More than 40 countries represent the SAS student body
Social Services Club
The Social Services Club grows, conducting ten service projects in Singapore supported by 150 students
Woodlands Campus
SAS relocates to the Woodlands campus with 2,500 students
Strategic Planning Committee
The Strategic Planning Committee includes community service in its vision for the school
Khoo Teck Puat Library
The Khoo Foundation donates $2 million for the Khoo Teck Puat high school library
Woodlands Campus Expansion
The Woodlands campus undergoes a $65 million expansion
Early Learning Center
The Early Learning Center opens
SAS's 50th Anniversary
Former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew inaugurates SAS's 50th anniversary
Riady Performing Arts Center
SAS parent Stephen Riady donates $4 million to underwrite the cost of the Riady Performing Arts Center
Jane Goodall Visit
Jane Goodall visits SAS and works with SAVE Club members
Staying In The Lead
SAS enters a robust research and development process to continue leading international education
SAS's New Vision
SAS adopts a new vision:
A World Leader in Education
Cultivating Exceptional Thinkers
Prepared for the Future
60 Years of Excellence, Extraordinary Care, and Possibilities
SAS celebrates 60 years of excellence, extraordinary care, and possibilities for its students
Chinese Immersion Program Launched
Chinese immersion program was launched with two immersion kindergarten classes
Distance Learning
Covid-19 pandemic results in distance learning
65th Anniversary
SAS celebrates its 65th anniversary
New 50 Meter Swimming Pool
A new 50 meter Olympic-sized swimming pool is built
New Elementary School Building
SAS opens the new elementary school building on campus
While many of us have moved on and have lives around the world, we continue to share a unique and special bond as alumni of SAS and former third culture kids.Although things change, the student experience at SAS and the time enjoyed living abroad provide ties that remain for a lifetime. Greg Rutledge
Class of 1978