The Academic Visitors-in-Residence Program at Singapore American School: Real-Life Role Models for Even the Youngest Students

The unique Academic Visitors-in-Residence Program at SAS continues the school’s proud tradition of innovation by inspiring students of all ages to dream big

Does your child love to write, paint or draw? Imagine if they could learn from their favourite children’s book author or illustrator! Read on for more info about the unique and innovative Academic Visitors-in-Residence Program at Singapore American School…

With a long tradition of innovation, Singapore American School (SAS) strives to maintain and promote this culture by encouraging students at all levels to explore new ideas, think outside the box, develop 21st century skills, and creatively solve problems. The ultimate goal is that students learn how to take action and positively impact their world.

The signature academic visitors-in-residence program, funded by the SAS PTA and the SAS Foundation, brings internationally recognized authors, illustrators, artists, musicians, playwrights, actors, and dance professionals to campus to work with students. The program allows students to deeply understand the craft and work of professional artists, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Students are able to develop relevant learning skills in support of creativity and different modes of communication. These visits also result in a greater sense of community that connects the head and the heart.

Renowned authors and illustrators like Marla Frazee, Tad Hills, Todd Parr, Steve Jenkins, Robin Page, and more have worked in-residence with children from the early learning center to grade five, in art rooms, and in classrooms helping them to explore the art of storytelling and illustration.

Visiting art practitioners in previous years have included Frantic Assembly (a UK theater company), Daniel Jenkins and the Singapore Repertory Theater Young Co., Rollo Dilworth, Jonathan Mann, Dr. Tim Robblee, Joachim Matschoss, John Reuter, Kwame Alexander, Steve Sheinkin, Chris Crutcher, and others.

“SAS is an amazing school and the visitors-in-residence program is an amazing program. The students are so aware of the aspects of literacy. The questions they ask about the process, character building, and ideas, speak volumes about the school as a whole!” says Marla Frazee, a Caldecott Award-winning author and illustrator of children’s books like The Boss Baby and All the World.

“An in-residence approach offers authentic, meaningful opportunities for co-creation and inspiration,” says Alison Cuthbert, the elementary school library media specialist at SAS.

“Illustrators work side by side with students in art studios, and authors hold a pencil beside students in the Writers’ Workshops. These visits provide long-lasting inspiration for our young learners—who see themselves as authors, illustrators, and artists. Students are able to witness craft and techniques up close, as well as ask questions along the way to gain deeper understanding of an artist or author’s process and approach.”

That sounds so cool! To learn more about the Academic-Visitors-in-Residence Program, or the overall culture of innovation at SAS, schedule a visit, today!

Singapore American School, 40 Woodlands Street 41, Singapore 738547, Tel: (+65) 6363 3403, www.sas.edu.sg