Hi,
I'm an old-boy of ACS(Independent) and I'd just like to clarify some of the questions many of you may have. After having spent 6 years in ACS(I), I would first like to say that it has been the best period of my life. I don't think anything could top all the experiences I've had in AC. To all parents who are worried about sending their kids to ACS(I), do not listen to the rumours about the school. They are mostly unfounded.
For those wondering if it's a 'rich-man school', the simple answer is that yes, many of the kids come from well-to-do families, but the same can be said of other 'elite' schools such as RI or HCI. These schools have built a strong network of successful alumni who will give back to their school and definitely will want to send their children to study there as well.
HOWEVER, rich or not, the kids do not discriminate. I am not from a rich family (I live in a HDB), but I have managed to make long-time friends from ACS(I). Whether you have money or not is NOT a criteria for friendship. In fact, if they know you're struggling, the other kids actually will not hesitate to chip in and help. The teachers will as well.
People tend to believe negative things about the school - that the kids are arrogant and selfish. It's actually the opposite. The school puts christian values first, and that translates into the students being very respectful and kind towards each other. We do, however, hold a lot of pride for our school and that may be what have turned off some of the 'outsiders' and created rumours. If you've gone through education in ACS, you'll understand that this pride is well-founded; the school environment is safe and brilliant, the kids are helpful, there's a plethora of activities to get involved in.
I can guarantee that if you send your son to this school, he will walk away a better man and he will 100% love the school, his friends, and the amazing teachers. Rumours and misconceptions can be hard to erase, so I suggest that if you're really curious, set some time aside and head down to ACS(I) for their yearly open house. The student-leaders will be the ones leading the open house so you will have plenty of opportunities to ask them questions and gain a firsthand understanding of the school culture. You will not be disappointed 
