AmerAsian School in Okinawa

The school strives to provide an affordable bilingual and bicultural education that celebrates the diversity of its students. It promotes balanced bilingualism by teaching core subjects in both Japanese and English, aiming to help students acquire academic proficiency in both languages. The school encourages students to take pride in their dual cultural heritage and fosters a community where students learn to be responsible, kind, and serious about their personal growth.

The school offers a double immersion curriculum where core subjects are taught in both Japanese and English. The academic programme spans from pre-kindergarten to Grade 9, focusing on developing academic skills in both languages. Students participate in a range of subjects, including Japanese, math, science, and social studies, with additional preparation for high school entrance exams.

Students at the school can obtain a graduation diploma from Japanese public schools. Graduates often pursue higher education, with students successfully gaining admission to their chosen high schools. The school emphasizes the development of character, academic proficiency in both Japanese and English, and the ability to set and achieve personal goals.

The school provides academic support through small-group instruction and volunteer-led programmes, such as the Prefectural High School Entrance Exam Preparation Course. Students receive guidance for English proficiency tests like Eiken, and the school implements reading comprehension programmes such as ReadWorks. Teachers and volunteers work closely with students to provide individualized attention and support.

The school accepts students from pre-kindergarten (4-5 years old) through Grade 9 (14-15 years old) on a rolling basis throughout the year. Admission requirements include dual nationality in citizenship or heritage, the completion of a five-day trial week, and an admission interview. Prospective families are encouraged to contact the school to request a campus tour.

The school operates on a multi-term system, with the academic year typically beginning in April. The calendar includes various school-wide events such as Sports Day, a school festival, Thanksgiving, and Halloween, alongside regular student assemblies and term-end ceremonies. Summer school programmes are also offered during the break.

The school is located in Ginowan, Okinawa, and occupies the first floor of the Ginowan Human Resource Development Exchange Center. The campus features classrooms, a picnic table area used for assemblies and dining, and access to nearby facilities such as a rooftop basketball court. The school also maintains flower beds for student gardening projects.

Students participate in a variety of co-curricular activities, including student council, basketball, and gardening. The school hosts an Eiken Club for English proficiency preparation and offers after-school learning sessions. Additionally, students engage in cultural experiences, such as traditional music performances, and participate in community-focused events like fire station tours and reading buddies programmes.