Meet Sheri Chandler, mum of two kids who attend Stamford American International School in Singapore. She tells us why she applied for the school and what she loves about her children's education there
Looking to enrol your child at an international school in Singapore, but not sure where to start? As part of our school selector, we interviewed a series of parents across Singapore’s best international schools, to help you decide which curriculum, campus and teaching approach suits your little one best. Here, we chat to mum Sheri Chandler, whose children study at Stamford American International School.
How many children do you have attending the school and how long have they been enrolled.
I have 2 children who have been enrolled at Stamford since November of 2012. Kaley is 13 and in 7th grade. Jack is 11 and in 5th grade.
What were the most important factors for you in selecting a School?
Ultimately, I chose Stamford for three reasons. One, as my children were coming from a Mandarin immersion school I wanted to continue daily Mandarin classes. Two, I wanted our kids to be exposed to as many cultures as possible during their schooling in Singapore. And three, I wanted an American curriculum.
How has the school lived up to your expectations?
My children are thriving at Stamford. The school has set high standards for their achievement, and I’ve seen them reaching and exceeding their personal goals each year. With the completion of the new campus this year I’ve been blown away by the facilities that are available.
What do your children like most about attending SAIS?
The aspect that they share about most with our family and friends in the US is the facilities. Stamford has made a substantial investment in its campus, and my daughter says that the classroom facilities inspire her to do her best.They’re excited about being part of a production in the new Reagan Theater with its active LED backdrop, trapeze system, and full audio-visual capabilities.
What sort of curriculum does the school offer?
Stamford is an International Baccalaureate school that uses the NWEA Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) to ensure academic growth from year-to-year. It allows me to track the progress of my children throughout their school years, as well as compare their achievements with their peers from home.
What extra-curricular activities do your children participate in?
Kaley and Jack are both creative and have been involved in several of Stamford’s full drama productions including Peter Pan, The Wind in the Willows, and James and the Giant Peach. They have also enjoyed touch football, cheerleading, Minecraft club, movie making, baseball, golf, and tennis.
What advice would you give other parents looking for a school?
There are lots of great schools in Singapore. Take the time to find a campus where your children can grow and learn but also where they can feel at home. After all, they’ll spend the majority of their Singapore experience at school!
What do you value most about the school?
As a parent, I think one of the most unique and compelling aspects of Stamford is the strong sense of community. It really feels like a partnership between the parents, teachers and administrators. The school even provides parent facilities on campus, and I always feel welcome there.
Are you satisfied with the level of communication you receive from the school and how they engage parents?
Stamford has rolled out a new online communications platform this year. Each Friday there are newsletters posted from the Superintendent as well as each of the four school principles and the Parent Teacher Association. I have always found the teachers to be quick to respond whenever I’ve needed assistance by email and in person.
How much homework is given to your child and how often?
Homework for both children is posted online each week so that I can monitor their progress and help them manage their personal schedules. Elementary students receive their homework for the week on Wednesdays and it is due on the following Tuesday. I really like this system as it helps with planning family time and commitments. In general it takes about 5 hours for my 5th grader to complete his homework for the week. My 7th grader has more homework and it is assigned throughout the week on an A/B schedule, so she knows she has two nights to complete an assignment.
Find out more about Stamford American International School here.