Yujin Gakuen Elementary School

The immersion program is great for an alternate learning environment and YG offers a unique opportunity in a public system. I do believe that there is room for improvement. On the Japanese side of things, the instructors seem to have a "get it" or get left behind system. Maybe that is the Japanese way, but that doesn't work if your kid stumbles and gets behind (kind of a no mercy system). Some teachers are great, others mediocre at best. The Principal is somewhat of a pacifist and he has ducked difficult matters and conversations in the past. Also, it is my impression that there is a fair amount of children attending that come to the school knowing Japanese, which off balances the learning process. Additionally, it appears from watching classrooms activities and extra curricular programs that the girls and leading their classes over boys by leaps and bounds?? Choose Wisely!
—Submitted by a parent

This is my daughter's first year at YG, and so far she absolutely loves it! We haven't been around long, but you can definately tell that the parents and teachers are really involved and that they truly care for the students and their education. The program itself is amazing. After the first couple of days of school my daughter was already walking around singing Japanese songs! Not only is there language immersion, but there is also an emphasis on computer skills at this school, which is nice especially in today's society.
—Submitted by a parent

My chlid loves this school! Coming from a private school, my nerves were jittery about the transition. The last school only had 25 kids total (k-5). Each class had just under 25 kids with 2 classes for each grade. The teachers are amazing! The Principal knows his students, each and every one of them! This school has a wonderful balance of discipline and fun, while provinding a high level of education to all the children. I'm proud to have my child attend YG. This place is so affordable, all it costs is my time. Volunteering is a worth while investment in my childs education. Thank you!
—Submitted by a parent

Love the atmosphere. It is a pubic school ran like a private school and the kids all seem happy.
—Submitted by a parent

Yujin Gakuen is one of the top schools in Eugene. The staff and parents working together is truly amazing. The lottery system has nothing to do with 'donations.' In fact it is run by District 4J and YG has nothing to do with it. It does however give preference to siblings already attending. Also this is a public school so there is no 'price.' Only a modest supply list and activity fee. ($25) If you are interested in solid academics, performances, and of course learning Japanese in an immersion style environment. Check out Yujin Gakuen.
—Submitted by a parent

My three daughters went to Yujin Gakuen and they loved it. It is true there is a lottery, but most children get into the school. Parents are typically very involved and supportive. The School is challenging because children spend half the day immersed in a Japanese only classroom. I would recommend this school to parents of children who enjoy learning about other cultures. I don't recommend this school for children who need a slower paced, all English curriculum. Remember, the kids only get half the usual English instruction in this school. In general the school is great and most kids do very well. Children who have difficulty learning the Japanese receive extra tutoring.
—Submitted by a parent

I am so glad my child attended YG. It was a great environment for my daughter, she enjoyed attending YG and they made learning exciting and interesting for her. It is great that they teach more than just the Japanese language, but also the Japanese culture. As far as the school being 'overpriced,' I would have to disagree. If you check, YG spends less per student compared with the average of other Oregon public schools. They also have a higher student count per teacher compared with the average from other Oregon public schools, but still got better ratings than other public schools in the area. There are more pros than cons at YG, and I believe this school also gives real life skills that the students can use when they become adults.
—Submitted by a parent

Although this is a unique school around here. They are definately sub-par compaired to other immersion programs I have looked at for my son. The school is right next to a busy street where the Highschoolers drive all the time. The Highschool is right next door. This school is overpriced and has a poor lottery system to see if you child can attend. The more you donate the better chance your kid has getting in here.
—Submitted by a parent

five stars ! Excellent teaching methods and learning curriculum
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter began kindergarten at Yujin Gakuen this year. We are thrilled to be there! Each class has an English speaking and Japanese speaking teacher. It is amazing to watch a classroom of children responding to their Japanese teacher speaking in Japanese. It is true immersion program. They use music and song to teach the sounds and the kids are learning the Japanese characters (Hiragana) along side the English alphabet. Parent involvement is encouraged, but I have seen no feeling of requirement for involvement if not possible. As the school is an alternative school, there is a bit of fundraising done to fund the huge computer lab and language tools, but there are a variety of options available to participate - from money to time and none are a requirement. The best part, though, is the amazing parents and staff and faculty. Everyone is totally committed to the school!
—Submitted by a parent

Our children like YG. We however feel that traffic congestion is a major issue. Parents are not required to remain in their vehicles although posted signs dictate. The abandoned vehicles create cogestion into the streets. Additional parking is insufficient as it is available only on city streets. Why no bussing? Why no inforcement of vehicle policies? We also feel that the school focuses on asking parents for additional financial support. Not all parents have large reserves of income and donations should be private and optional.Although a Japanese alternative school, it would also be nice to enjoy a play that simply emphasizes the english culture as well. Not all functions of an immersion school need to focus simply on the structure of the alternative.
—Submitted by a parent

Yujim Gakuen has been a wonderful choice for our son to go to. The teacher/parent communication is great! WE LOVE YG!
—Submitted by a teacher