WASC Candidacy Status

On 4 May 2012, four schools under Singapore International School System were granted Candidacy Status by the by the accrediting agency, the Schools Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Schools included, SIS @ Saigon South, SIS @ Van Phuc, SIS @ Ciputra and SIS @ Cau Giay.

On this occasion, Singapore International School System is the first school system in Vietnam to have four schools listed as candidates for full WASC Accreditation. WASC is one of six private, nonprofit, regional accrediting associations in the United States, providing assistance to schools located in California, Hawaii, Pacific Islands, and East Asia. As an international and high profile accrediting agency, WASC is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education. WASC services over 4,000 schools, aiming to foster excellence in education by encouraging continuous school improvement.

The process of application for accreditation is strictly set out by WASC . Through this process, schools are expected to create the highest quality learning experience they can envision for all students. WASC assessors, Dr David Brown, Dr Peter Toscano, and Dr Harlan Lyso visited each SIS for two days. During this time they met with corporate staff, principals, teachers, students and parents at each school. Assessors commented that the Singapore International School system has a well articulated system of corporate and educational governance with high levels of principal and teacher responsibility resulting in a very positive impact for student learning. In addition, the assessors noted that teacher training and development was impressive; one of the best they had seen in international schools. WASC further commented that curriculum delivery for both International and Integrated programmes was systematic and rigorous. On visits to both International and Integrated classrooms assessors noted that students were highly motivated and engaged in their study.

With four schools successfully gaining WASC Candidacy Status, Singapore International School system has created an important first step in the full accreditation process. This includes the maintenance of the existing rigorous curriculum and study pathway, excellent staff, and offering a well rounded education allowing students to access international universities. The continuation of self-improvement is a part of aspiring to full, prestigious accreditation with WASC.

SIS ,has always been committed to high levels of education service and the Candidacy Status awarded by WASC reflects Singapore International Schools’ ultimate goal to provide high quality teaching and learning opportunities for both staff and students in Vietnam. With four schools successfully gaining WASC Candidacy Status students will now have even greater opportunity to articulate more easily to U.S universities if they wish to study in that part of the world. If you are interested in more information about the Singapore International Schools

Please visit the website at www.kinderworld.net WASC information is available at http://www.acswasc.org