J-LEAP (Japanese Language Education Assistant Program) 2016-18 Cycle
J-LEAP places native Japanese Assistant Teachers in U.S. K-12 classrooms for up to two years to enhance Japanese language education and promote cultural exchange.
Funder: Japan Foundation of Los Angeles
Due Dates: December 1, 2025: Lead Teacher application Part 1 submission deadline | December 1, 2025: Administrative approval form submission deadline
Funding Amounts: Assistant Teacher’s full compensation and relocation costs covered; host sites receive a $1,000 grant for teaching materials; two-year term.
Summary: Supports U.S. K-12 Japanese language programs by placing native Japanese Assistant Teachers in classrooms for up to two years at no cost to the school.
Description
The Japanese Language Education Assistant Program (J-LEAP) is a collaborative initiative between the Japan Foundation of Los Angeles and the Laurasian Institution. The program strengthens Japanese language education in U.S. K-12 schools by dispatching native Japanese Assistant Teachers (ATs) for up to two years. ATs team-teach with a Lead Teacher (LT), providing students with authentic language exposure and cultural exchange opportunities. The program aims to deepen intercultural understanding, invigorate Japanese language programs, and nurture a new generation of Japanese language educators.
