Host Nation Summer Program Registration Open!

We are excited to invite your child to an unforgettable cultural adventure this summer! Zukeran Elementary will host Host Nation Summer Program in two sessions. Session #1 is designed specifically for our Kindergarten through 2nd grade students, while Session #2 is designed for our 3rd–5th grade students. 

Session #1 for current Kindergarten through 2nd grade students:

This program is a wonderful opportunity for your child to connect with the local culture through two of Japan’s most cherished traditions:

• Taiko (Japanese Drumming): Your child will feel the power of the drum! We’ll practice traditional rhythms and work together to master a full song. It’s high-energy, fun, and a great way to build coordination.
• Soroban (Japanese Abacus): Often called "mental math with a beat," the Soroban helps students visualize numbers. We’ll teach them how to solve addition and subtraction using this classic tool, turning math into an engaging game. 

 Registration Details:

• Sign Up Dates: Monday, May 11 – Monday, May 15
• Results Notified By : Thursday, May 21

Important Details:

• Summer Program Dates: Monday, June 15 – Monday, June 22
• Location: Zukeran Elementary School-Culture classroom
• What to Bring: Just a water bottle! (No lunch or transportation provided).

Daily Schedule:

• Kindergarten: 9:00 AM – 9:55 AM
• Grades 1-2: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to sign up early to ensure your child doesn't miss out on this "rhythmic" math adventure! We can’t wait to see them there.

☞Click here to register for the Session #1 (Grades K-2) Summer Host Nation Program.

Session #2 for current 3rd through 5th grade students:

This session offers hands‑on cultural experiences that bring Okinawa’s traditions, creativity, and community to life.

Throughout the program, students will enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including:

• Local Bakery Visit & Bread Making: Students will step inside a Japanese bakery and learn how to bake bread using local techniques—an authentic and delicious cultural experience!
• Shisa Making & Coloring: Using Shuri Castle’s red roof tiles and shikkui (traditional Okinawan clay), students will create and decorate their own Shisa—a beloved Okinawan guardian figure.
• Exciting Study Trips: From exploring the Wonder Museum and Splash Park to visiting the Kingyo (Goldfish) Museum and the Okinawa Zoo, students will learn, play, and discover Okinawan nature, art, and science.
• Karate: Mr. Kyan a famous karate instructor will be coming to share karate skills.

Registration Details

• Sign‑Up Dates: Monday, May 11 – Friday, May 15
• Results Notified By: Thursday, May 21

Program Information

• Dates: Tuesday, June 23 – Thursday, July 2
• Location: Zukeran Elementary School & off‑campus study trip locations
• What to Bring: Varies by day (water, snacks, lunch, and extra clothes for water play). A detailed schedule will be provided.

Daily Schedule

• Program Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (except Kingyo Museum: 9:45 AM – 1:00 PM)

This session is limited to 15 students from grades 3–5, so we encourage early registration to ensure your child has the opportunity to participate in this exciting cultural journey. We can’t wait to explore, create, and learn together this summer!

☞Click here to register for the Session #2 (Grades 3-5) Summer Host Nation Program.

Warm regards,
Host Nation Program Team
Zukeran Elementary School