1/30/26 Deadline - 2026 Special Training Program for Japanese-Language Teachers

2026 Special Training Program for Japanese-Language Teachers
The Japan Foundation, Los Angeles, in collaboration with the Japanese-Language Institute, Urawa, is excited to announce this special program for the 2026 fiscal year! One of the key priorities in U.S.–Japan relations is strengthening grassroots exchange to help the next generation develop a deeper understanding of Japan. In support of this goal, we will offer two specialized teacher training programs in the summer of 2026 for non-native K–12 Japanese-language teachers in the United States. These programs are designed to enhance participants’ Japanese language proficiency and professional skills. Please see details below:

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Application Deadline: January 30th, 2026 @5:30PM (PST)
Download Application Documents: https://www.jflalc.org/event-details.php/323/
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Duration
The 1st Group: June 5, 2026, to June 29, 2026 (25 days) (tentative)
The 2nd Group: June 21, 2026, to July 15, 2026 (25 days) (tentative)

Description
Participants will strengthen their Japanese-language proficiency, an essential skill for teaching, through a variety of language-focused activities. They will also deepen their understanding of linguistic areas such as vocabulary and grammar.

In addition, participants will gain knowledge and firsthand experience of Japanese culture and society through lectures, workshops, and other planned activities. Field trips, visits to local schools, and cultural demonstrations are also included to provide practical content that can be incorporated into their Japanese-language classes.

Venue
Pre-departure Orientation in Los Angeles
Main Training at The Japan Foundation, Japanese-Language Institute, Urawa

Participants
24 Teachers Per Group

Benefits
Single-room accommodations at JFJLI Urawa (shared rooms may be required during field trips).
Meals provided, partly through cash allowances.
Teaching materials and other curriculum-related expenses covered.
Overseas travel insurance with coverage limits (excluding preexisting conditions and dental care).
Round-trip discount economy airfare from the participant’s nearest international airport.
Airport and foreign travel taxes covered.
Set in-kind allowances to support program participation.

Application Procedures
Please email jflainfo'@'jpf.go.jp to inform us of your intention of applying (Please also include the last day of school for you).
Download and complete the application forms.
Email application forms to the contact in step 1.
Results will be announced by the end of March 2026.