A Taste of Change at SAS

By Angel Yang & Mimi Yao School cafeteria food has always been a debate among students, with the overall attitude of students toward cafeteria food being slightly negative. As many people struggle to choose a meal, they often resort to “the only consistent option” — the burrito bowl. But the ever-growing burrito line is just one manifestation of students’ grievances.  This semester, new changes have been made to the school cafeteria. You may have noticed the introduction of the new food company in charge of the food, Sodexo, instead of last years’ Chartwells. In addition, the variety of meals has … Continue reading A Taste of Change at SAS

How does one transition from bringing stories to life on stage to helping students craft their own real-life narratives? 

From starring as Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet on a live stage to working on the screen for film The Martian, directed by Ridley Scott, Mr. O’Brien once immersed himself in stories that had already been written.  As the grandson … Continue reading How does one transition from bringing stories to life on stage to helping students craft their own real-life narratives? 

Unrealistic Ideals: The Impact of Social Media on Body Image for SASPD High Schoolers 

The rise of technology and social media in the 21st century has given unnatural body images a new form of power against young, impressionable teenagers. Influencers and celebrities often set unrealistic benchmarks through deceptive practices. The media teenagers consume is … Continue reading Unrealistic Ideals: The Impact of Social Media on Body Image for SASPD High Schoolers 

Gender Neutral Bathrooms: Does Inclusivity Undermine Privacy? 

In recent years, the Shanghai American School (SAS) has introduced gender-neutral changing rooms in its swimming facilities, moving away from the traditional model of gender-segregated spaces. This change allows students of all genders to share a common area for showers, bathroom stalls, and changing rooms, featuring numerous private cubicles within a communal space. Despite the good intentions, there have been negative opinions regarding the safety and privacy of this new design.  Historically, SASPD has provided separate changing areas for boys and girls, with open spaces dedicated to one gender. However, in an effort to increase inclusivity, the school has introduced … Continue reading Gender Neutral Bathrooms: Does Inclusivity Undermine Privacy? 

Assessing the Controversial Success of the JUMP! Leadership Retreat 

By Katelyn Lu and Charlotte Lai Original Publishing Date: April 12, 2024 When recalling their leadership experience at SAS, many students may remember the JUMP! Leadership Retreat as a core memory. To some, this three-day event brought lasting friendships and lifelong lessons, but to many others, it felt unpolished — “a school bonding event instead of a leadership conference” — as an anonymous student quoted.  To learn more about the much-disputed success of the JUMP! initiative, we sat down with Ms. Grace, SAS’s Global Citizenship Coordinator, and Mr. Ian Standard, the head facilitator of the JUMP! Leadership Retreat. Together, these … Continue reading Assessing the Controversial Success of the JUMP! Leadership Retreat 

Inno 10 Tackles Global Challenges

On October 25, Innovation Institute 10 showcased their semester of learning and exploration to a diverse student body and faculty. Three teams, fueled by a shared passion for understanding and addressing pressing global issues, took the stage to enlighten and inspire. The first team delved into the urgent issue of habitat destruction and biodiversity loss. Their presentation painted a vivid picture of the delicate ecosystems at risk, urging us to confront the consequences of our actions on the planet. In their presentation, they not only shed light on the alarming statistics but also talked about the innovative solutions currently being … Continue reading Inno 10 Tackles Global Challenges