
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
8:45 - 9:00 a.m.
9:00 - 10:15 a.m.
10:15 - 10:35 a.m.
10:40 - 11:00 a.m.
11:00 - 12:30 p.m.
12:30 - 1:00 p.m.

What is Medaka no Gakko?
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Medaka no Gakko, established in 1982, is a parent cooperative Japanese cultural and educational summer program for elementary school children who have completed grades K-6. It is located at, but not associated with the Palo Alto Buddhist Temple.
The purpose of the program is to develop a greater awareness and appreciation of Japanese-American/Japanese values and culture for young children. Some of these concepts include the importance of family, respect for elders, group harmony, simplicity, and the love of nature. Activities include arts/crafts, language,music, cooking, social studies, literature, physical exercise, and demonstrations from local artists and performers.
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Can you describe the curriculum?
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Seven teachers, a language/music instructor, and curriculum director(s) design and implement classroom activities. Teachers have various interests and talents in the Japanese culture, and enjoy working with young students.
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What are the hours?
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Monday through Friday from 8:45am-1:00pm for three weeks
during the summer, usually late June through early July.
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What is a typical day like?
Taiso Exercise
Class Time
Recess
Language
Class Time
Lunch Time
What is the cost of the program?
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The cost for the three weeks is $550 per child if you register by February 1, 2025, and $600 per child after February 1st.
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When do I apply?
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Our online registration will open starting January 15, 2025 and enrollment will be based on a first come, first served basis. Please contact us at MedakanoGakkoPaloAlto@gmail.com if you would like to be added to the email list for notifications.
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Who can apply?
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Medaka no Gakko welcomes children of all ethnicities who have completed K-6 grade. Children in Pre-K may apply with the approval of the Curriculum Director. Please contact the Registrar if you would like to enroll your Pre-K at MedakanoGakkoPaloAlto@gmail.com
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Does my child need to be able to speak Japanese before enrolling?
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No. All classes are taught in English. We do have a fabulous Japanese language teacher who instructs the children for approximately 20 minutes per day.
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Do you have extended care (before and after class)?
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We do not currently offer care before class, but do have an extended program called Kaeru which runs from 1:00-4:00 p.m. each afternoon. Cost for Kaeru is $450.