Renowned International School Welcomes Outstanding Elementary Vice Principal
Shanghai American School
Shanghai American School (SAS) stands as a premier English-language day school in Shanghai, serving expatriate families with a comprehensive American curriculum from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. As one of Shanghai’s few independent, non-profit, coeducational institutions, SAS operates under the oversight of the Shanghai Civil Affairs Bureau and Education Commission, while being guided by a unique parent-led governance model—every SAS parent automatically becomes a member of the governing Association.
With two campuses located on opposite sides of Shanghai’s Huangpu River—one in Pudong (the east side) and one in Puxi (the west side) offering complete pre-kindergarten to grade 12 programs, SAS has established itself as China’s largest international school, home to over 2,900 students and 682 faculty and staff. Both high schools feature extensive AP offerings and the full IB diploma program, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence.
SAS sought an elementary vice principal (PK-grade 2) for the Puxi Campus, beginning July 2025. Reporting to the elementary school principal, this leader oversees educational programs and community engagement for grades PK-3 through grade 2. The role involves close collaboration with the principal, and elementary vice principal (grades 3-5), as well as academic and operational teams to ensure students have access to exceptional learning opportunities and appropriate social-emotional support.
The successful candidate will help advance SAS’s mission of fostering integrity, compassion, and lifelong learning while leading a program that embraces authentic problem-solving and community engagement. This position offers the opportunity to influence early childhood education at one of Asia’s most established international schools, working within a supportive and resource-rich environment.
The position includes a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package that supports a comfortable lifestyle with significant savings potential. SAS maintains high standards of compensation, reflecting its commitment to attracting and retaining talented educators. As one of Asia’s most established international schools, SAS balances attention to individual student needs with rigorous academic standards. The school values diversity and actively promotes equity and inclusion, creating a sense of belonging for all community members. Solid financial stewardship enables SAS to maintain resource-rich learning environments while offering competitive compensation. Leadership at SAS emphasizes collaboration and innovation in international education.
Shanghai American School was thrilled to welcome Sonia Barghani to the position.
Meet the new leader
With 16 years of experience in international education, including eight years in Shanghai, Sonia Barghani has a deep understanding of the needs, diversity, and values of international schools. Since 2021, as early years principal at Shanghai Singapore International School, Sonia has developed a child-focused, play-based, inquiry-centered program and built a collaborative culture. Before working in China, she gained experience in Iran, working with diverse populations which led to her passion for inclusivity and equity. Sonia holds a Doctorate in Education in Educational Leadership and Technology from William Howard Taft University and a Master of Arts in English Language and Literature from Shiraz University in Iran.