J-LEAP (Japanese Language Education Assistant Program) 2022-24 Cycle
J-LEAP places native Japanese assistant teachers in U.S. K-12 schools to strengthen Japanese language education and promote cultural exchange through classroom and community engagement.
Funder: Japan Foundation of Los Angeles
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (Lead Teacher) | January 2027 (Assistant Teacher)
Funding Amounts: Assistant Teacher compensation fully covered (stipend, airfare, housing, insurance, vehicle support); host schools receive educational materials funds; typical term is up to 2 years.
Summary: Places young Japanese assistant teachers in U.S. K-12 schools to support Japanese language education and promote cultural exchange.
Key Information: This is a forecasted cycle; all dates are projected and subject to change.
Description
The Japanese Language Education Assistant Program (J-LEAP) is an initiative of the Japan Foundation of Los Angeles that brings native Japanese Assistant Teachers (ATs) to U.S. K-12 schools. The program is designed to strengthen Japanese language education by providing schools with a native-speaking assistant who works alongside a Lead Teacher (LT) to enhance classroom instruction and cultural exchange. The ATs support curriculum development, classroom activities, and community outreach, serving as both language models and cultural ambassadors. J-LEAP aims to foster mutual understanding, invigorate Japanese language programs, and nurture the next generation of Japanese language educators in the United States.
