Situated in the residential area of Yishun in Singapore is XCL American Academy. It opened its doors in August 2022 and offers an American education for children aged two to 14 years. We asked XCL American Academy’s Founding Superintendent DARIN CARNEY to highlight the key features of the school, including character development programs and more.
XCL American Academy’s curriculum for global living
XCL American Academy was designed to offer an authentic and high-quality American education, together with a holistic approach towards character development and experiential learning.
We offer excellent preparation for students planning to study, work and live in the United States and any other part of the world. We’ve carefully selected only the very best curriculum programs that have been tried and tested worldwide.
In addition to closely following the rigorous AERO and the US Common Core curriculum standards issued by the United States Department of Education, we also adopt internationally recognised curriculum programs such as the University of Chicago Everyday Math, Inspired Science, and a balanced approach to literacy with materials from Scholastic.
One of the standout features of our curriculum is our unique PioneerTown program, which focuses on entrepreneurship. Students participate in a large-scale simulation of a town, engage in role-playing and take on different responsibilities in a self-contained economy. In this way, they learn important concepts such as economics, negotiation, innovation, leadership, sales, commerce and more.
Character development
While we do place a strong emphasis on rigorous academic programs, we also pay special attention to the social-emotional needs of the students in our care.
Embedded into the daily life of all students from Nursery to Grade 8 is a formal character development program using the acclaimed Second Steps framework. It helps prepare them to become productive, caring and creative global citizens. This character development program aims to promote positive behaviour, global awareness, tolerance of others, and above all else, kindness and empathy.
Little by little, day by day, XCL American Academy students will develop the mindset and experiences they will need to be at the forefront of this change and to be agents of their own success.
Fostering the XCL American Academy community
We’re committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community of students, families, and staff. We aspire to live by our core values and take pride in our diverse backgrounds.
We strive to build strong relationships with our families to ensure the best learning outcomes for our students. And we create multiple opportunities for the entire community to celebrate, meet new friends and grow together as one big family.
I spoke with one of our families not long ago and they said, “The XCL American Academy community is like a family for its students. Teachers value their students individually, so students, in turn, are encouraged to do the same with each other. There truly is no limit to the friendships our children make at XCL American Academy.”
I’m genuinely touched and proud that we’ve built a solid and happy community where everyone feels heard, valued and supported in such a short period of time.
About my experience in American education
I’m originally from Colorado, US. As a Founding Superintendent (Founding Pioneer) at XCL American Academy, I’m determined to build the best American school in Singapore and provide high-quality, accessible American education that empowers students to succeed and make a positive mark on the world.
Before XCL American Academy, I was the Chief Operations Officer of the Vietnam Australia School in Vietnam. I’ve been a leader in the educational space for over 30 years, with experience spanning the US, mainland China, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore. I hold a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in educational leadership. I’m currently pursuing a doctoral degree in educational leadership/management (at Walden University).
I’m married and have two sons who have graduated from universities, so I bring to XCL American Academy a parent’s perspective, and also unbridled energy, passion and excitement for what we are building and creating – a unique place where all Pioneers are welcomed and wanted!
Ask me about XCL American Academy
If you’re interested in joining our amazing community, give us a call! I’ll be happy to meet you in person to share more about our school and the unique learning opportunities for your children.
XCL American Academy
2 Yishun Street 42
6230 4222 | xaa.edu.sg
Don’t our miss our big guide of international schools in Singapore. Also, our Things to Do in Singapore section has ideas for making the most of your time here!
