Our Story
Kaohsiung American School (KAS) was founded in the mid-1980s when Robert Griffiths, an AIT employee, met with Steve Carroll and Joe Cuthbertson to address the need for an English-language school for expatriate families in Kaohsiung. It was at that meeting that the idea of KAS was born. In 1989, KAS opened its doors with 16 K–8 students in apartments at the Chang Gung Hospital compound, thanks to support from the American Chamber of Commerce and dedicated parents.
KAS was established not only as an international school with a globally minded curriculum, but also as a student-centered institution. The school has a long history of celebrating the diversity and individuality of its students and encouraging them to pursue their passions and interests through challenging academic programs, athletics, the arts, and extracurricular opportunities. After graduating, students have gone on to study at prestigious universities and colleges in the U.S. and throughout the world forming an alumni network that transcends borders.
In the early years, the founding parents played a pivotal role in running and shaping the school. Their efforts were key to overcoming challenges of limited resources and space. Parent engagement has been a constant through the years. From the inception of the Board of Directors and PTA, to ongoing family support, this community-driven spirit remains a defining characteristic of KAS.
Over the decades, KAS has grown and evolved, moving through four different campuses to accommodate its expanding student body, improving its facilities, and expanding academic programs to prepare students for life beyond KAS in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Through these changes, the school has remained true to its founding principles of providing a high-quality English-language education and inspiring holistic learning in a nurturing environment.
1989: A Vision Takes Root
KAS is established as a K–8 school by the parents of 13 U.S. children, initially located in apartments within the Chang Gung Hospital compound.
1990s: Foundations of Growth
- KAS receives accreditation from WASC.
- First move to Fudong Municipal Elementary School.
- Programs and enrollment continue to expand with nearly 150 students in PreK through grade 12
- A dedicated volunteer parent group evolves into the full-fledged KAS PTA.
- First open election to the Board of Directors.
- Students embrace the computer age with the first digitized yearbook
2000s: Recognition and Expansion
- KAS is designated as a U.S. State Department assisted overseas school, recognized for meeting high educational standards and providing a supportive environment for local and expat students.
- The school relocates to the campus of Sheng Li Elementary School.
- Enrollment increases to 280 students.
- A comprehensive college preparatory program is established to help prepare students for university study.
- Nearly half of all KAS teachers are from North America.
- The KAS library, a hub of the school, expands to include a computer lab and online databases. Over 85% of students participate in afterschool activities.
2010s: Innovation and Excellence
- KAS becomes the first LEED-certified school in Taiwan with a new academic building and the Thomas Farrell Athletic Complex.
- Embracing the International Baccalaureate, KAS becomes IB World School offering the IB Diploma Programme and the IB Middle Years Programme.
- More than 50 after school clubs, activities and sports are available to students.
- KAS hosts the highest number of college admissions officers in the school’s history.
- KAS became a Google Reference School for its leadership and innovation, and hosts a Google Summit that attracts over 100 attendees from all over the world.
- Most events hosted in the school’s history, including the World’s Scholar’s Cup, STMUN, the ACAMIS Basketball tournament, swim meets, and arts and music events.
2020s: Resilience and Renewal
- KAS celebrates its 30th anniversary.
- Enrollment exceeds 780 students.
- The Future Leaders Program launches, providing high school students with valuable internship opportunities throughout Kaohsiung.
- The COVID pandemic leads to online learning and event cancellations.
- Campus upgrade include an elementary makerspace, new high school science labs, and expanded office space to support faculty and staff.
Today
KAS continues to thrive as the leading international school in southern Taiwan, challenging students to achieve academic excellence and preparing them to be Balanced Individuals, Independent Learners, and Global Citizens. As we look to the future, we remain committed to innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring that our students are ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Explore Our Campus
Since its founding in 1989 within the confines of a Kaohsiung hospital basement, KAS has grown to become a distinguished international school in the region, now proudly serving a thriving community of over 700 students.
Our expansive green campus underscores our commitment to providing a welcoming and well-resourced environment for academic pursuits, athletics, and the arts. We are proud and grateful for the facilities we have access to, and to our dedicated facilities team who cares for and maintains them.
