At the American International School of Guangzhou (AISG), being not-for-profit is our promise to the community. A promise to keep our students at the heart of everything we do.

AISG is proud to be one of the longest established non-profit international schools in South China and the only not-for-profit international school in Guangzhou. AISG reinvests 100% of its surplus back into the school; that means every decision, every innovation, and the ongoing growth of AISG is guided by one question: What’s best for our community?
Kevin Baker, Head of School states, “Being not-for-profit allows us to stay focused on what matters most: our mission, our vision, our shared values, and our students. This model gives us the ability to strategically plan and invest in what truly transforms lives: great teaching, inclusive learning, and a strong, connected community where every member is empowered to have an impact.” 

With a Board of Directors holding fiduciary responsibility, AISG remains accountable to its mission ensuring that all decisions align with long-term impact, educational excellence, and community well-being.

“I first volunteered on the finance committee as a non-board member to better understand how the school works and to bring long-term value to caregivers and students. I wanted to contribute to providing the best education possible for my children,” said Board Chair Frederic Barbier. 
Board member Cory Reinheit echoed this sentiment: “I believe AISG offers an excellent learning environment for my kids, both socially and academically. I saw the board as an opportunity to contribute to this culture and ensure it continues for generations, for both local families and those working abroad in China.”

Reinvestment drives impact. At AISG, resources go where they matter most: into the classroom, into professional development, and into the spaces where curiosity and creativity thrive. “Decisions prioritize educational excellence and community well-being over profits,” shared one AISG administrator. That means better support for our teachers, more innovation in how we teach, and transformative learning journeys for every student.
Board member Tess Kai added: “Serving on the board allows me to channel that deep parental commitment into decisions that will safeguard our school’s values for future families.”

This model inspires a culture of impact, where transparency, trust, and collaboration are the foundation on how we operate. 

Caregivers describe it best: “Fees are being invested back into the school which means they’re being invested back into our kids.”

Through our board, our PTA, community surveys, and advisory forums, every voice contributes to shaping our path forward. AISG reinvests for tomorrow. And that makes all the difference.

Why AISG Values Being Not-for-Profit 

• 100% Reinvestment into Education
  Every dollar goes back into what matters most: students, teachers, programs, and campus life.

• Strength Through Reinvestment
  Funds are used to continually grow and transform the learning environment, faculty development, and student support.

• Community-Driven Growth
  Growth is shaped by the needs, voices, and values of the AISG community.

• Community Involvement & Shared Ownership
  Caregivers, students, faculty, and staff actively shape the school’s direction through meaningful feedback and engagement.

• Mission-Aligned Decision Making
  All decisions are guided by what’s best for the community, not by external financial pressures.

• A Culture of Impact
  AISG’s ethos is rooted in long-term impact, collective success, and sustained transformation.

• Belonging, Inclusivity & Voice
  In a not-for-profit model, every community member matters. Every voice is heard. Every contribution counts.

• Empowered Community Members
  Students are seen. Teachers are supported. Families are involved. Everyone is part of the journey.

• A Model That Reflects Our Values
  Being not-for-profit means leading with compassion, investing in people, and staying true to our mission of transformative education.