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Picture taken in front of VJCC, showing building facade with "Venice Japanese Community Center" written on it, surrounded by manicured trees and an empty parking lot under a partly cloudy sky.

VENICE GAKUEN

(Japanese Language School K Through12)

Welcome to Venice Gakuen

Black-and-white panoramic photo of Venice Gakuen students and teachers posed in front of a building labeled "Venice Gakuen - 1934." Smiles and a formal setting convey a sense of community and history.

Established in 1925, Venice Japanese Language School (Venice Gakuen) is a community-based, non-profit organization that offers Japanese language classes for children who are in kindergarten through 12th grade. Our classes meet weekly on Saturday mornings. Visit us at www.venicegakuen.com.

Our goal at Venice Gakuen is to promote the understanding and appreciation of the Japanese language, culture and traditions.

Our instructional program is designed to meet the needs of our culturally and ethnically diverse student base whose home languages do not necessarily include Japanese.

History

Venice Gakuen was established in 1925 by eminent Issei pioneers of the area concerned with the preservation of the Japanese language and culture among their children.

Curriculum

Our program provides instruction in all areas of the Japanese language – reading, writing and conversation – for practical communication. We also emphasize familiarity with the traditions and culture of Japan. Students participate in Japanese traditional arts, Japanese literature and poetry, crafts, games, cooking, calligraphy and other cultural events throughout the year.

We currently have four classes – Youth Level 1 and Junior Levels 0, 2, and 3.

Staff

Our instructors are native Japanese speakers. All hold college degrees and teaching credentials, and are experienced teachers.

School Year

Our school year begins in September and ends in June. We operate on a quarter system – fall, winter and spring. There is no instruction during the summer.

School Hours

School hours are Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. with two recess periods. The first two periods are instructional, with the third period generally set aside for activities and cultural enrichment.

Annual Tuition 

  • $950 ($100 per month for September through May, $50 for June)

  • Activities and Materials: $50

For more information, contact the office at 310-822-8885 or email us at venicegakuen.office@gmail.com

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