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Andrew W. Corcoran- CAIS Institute Executive Director


Andrew W. Corcoran Andrew Corcoran earned his BS from the US Military Academy and MA in Educational Foundations from the University of Hawaii. He brings over 30 years of extensive experience in education as a teacher, vice principal, and principal. Prior to joining CAIS, he was Principal of Maryknoll High School in Hawaii. Andrew continues to work with Teachers Without Borders in China and previously worked with Global Children's Organization in Bosnia, Croatia, and Ireland to work with children affected by the violence in those countries.
Andrew has been a strong advocate for the importance of students around the world meeting together. He sponsored a conference for students from the Pacific Rim in Honolulu as well as exchanges with students from China, Japan, France, Spain, and the Marshall Islands.

Andrew is the Head of School at Chinese American International School (CAIS) in San Francisco, the nation’s first Chinese-English immersion school. In 2004, CAIS was awarded the Goldman Sachs Award for Excellence in International Education. Last year, CAIS celebrated 25 years “Leading the Way” in outstanding academics, community service, and commitment to excellence.

In addition to his role at CAIS, Andrew is the Executive Director of the CAIS Institute, a Mandarin resource center for educators, students, and community organizations. A thought leader in the field of Chinese education, Mr. Corcoran’s vision was actualized when the CAIS Institute hosted the nation’s first annual Chinese Language Conference in 2007. He recently implemented an Acculturation Training Program for guest teachers in conjunction with the NAIS China Connections program. Through his ongoing work at the CAIS Institute, Mr. Corcoran is committed to the advancement of the teaching and learning of Chinese language and culture.