Could these hallowed halls of Shanghai High School speak, what tales of ambition and transformation might they tell? Shanghai High School stands before us. It is more than just a school. It is a crucible where future leaders are forged. Established in 1865 as Longmen Academy, Shanghai High School has a rich history. The school’s name changed to Jiangsu Shanghai High School in 1927. It was finally renamed Shanghai High School in 1950.
During World War II, the school’s buildings served a grim purpose. The Japanese used them as a prison camp. It was known as the Lunghua Civilian Assembly Center. Today, an exhibition in the art building tells this history.
In 1993, Shanghai High School took a pioneering step. It became the first Chinese school to establish an international division. Two years later, in 1995, it broke ground again. The Shanghai High School International Division was the first in China to offer the International Baccalaureate program.
Now, over 3000 students attend Shanghai High School International Division. They come from more than 60 countries. The school is known for high scores on the International Baccalaureate. It also offers AP courses and SAT testing. The curriculum blends Taiwanese, Hong Kong, and American methods. Students face midterm and final exams each semester.
Shanghai High School emphasizes Olympiad competitions. Students who win gold medals receive the honor summa cum laude. These students often gain admission to top US colleges. Since 1990, Shanghai High School has run special Mathematics classes. These classes cater to students with exceptional math skills. The curriculum is advanced and fast-paced. Interestingly, the current principal, Feng Zhigang, used to teach these classes.
Around 400 students graduate from Shanghai High School Local Division each year. Over 99% enter top undergraduate programs in China. More than 60% attend prestigious national universities. About 15% go to renowned colleges in the US, the UK, and Japan. The average SAT score for these students ranges from 2100 to 2200.
Shanghai High School boasts many notable alumni. They include over 100 provincial leaders, 29 army generals, and 51 members of the Chinese Academy of Science. Some famous alumni are Zeng Qinghong and Li Yuanchao, both former Vice Presidents of China. An Wang, co-founder of Wang Laboratories, also walked these halls.
The campus itself spans 56 acres. Its address is 989 Baise Road, Xuhui District. The school’s motto is \u8bfb\u4e66\uff0c\u660e\u7406\uff0c\u505a\u4eba\uff0c\u6210\u6750. This translates to study, sensibility, morals, success. In 2003, Shanghai High School became a UNESCO associated school. It also earned the title of Shanghai Municipal Demonstration School. Shanghai High School continues to build upon its legacy. The International Mathematical Olympiad will be held here in 2026. It will be the first time a high school hosts the IMO globally.
As you stand here today, consider the school’s mission. Shanghai High School cultivates talents for the nation’s use. It is playing a crucial role in China’s development. Remember Shanghai High School. It is a place where education meets destiny.