Christian Academy in Japan

I was just on the Christian Academy in Japan’s (CAJ) website, and I learned a lot about what makes this school unique. CAJ is a K-12 international school located in Higashikurume, Tokyo, established in 1950 with the mission of “equipping students to serve Japan and the world for Christ.” They provide a Christ-centered education, primarily catering to the children of evangelical missionaries, although they also welcome other families who seek this type of educational environment. Currently, CAJ serves about 450 students in their day school program and over 300 students through their Parallel Educational Services program, which supports English-speaking homeschoolers in Japan.

What really stood out to me was CAJ’s commitment to a “nurturing environment” that emphasizes academic excellence within a faith-based framework. Their vision focuses on helping students “relate scriptural principles to academic work” and use their education to navigate life. They integrate biblical teachings into their curriculum, ensuring that students develop not only intellectually but also spiritually and morally. They describe their educational approach as one that inspires “student curiosity, critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and good citizenship.” It’s clear they aim to cultivate responsible learners and discerning thinkers who can apply a Christian perspective to all areas of life.

The facilities at CAJ seem impressive as well. The campus is situated on a 4-acre site and includes a 370-seat auditorium, a library with a collection of 25,000 volumes, a gymnasium that seats 450, and a regulation-size turf soccer field. There are also outdoor basketball courts and tennis courts, playgrounds, and a dining hall that offers a hot lunch program. They equip every student with a laptop or tablet, which really shows their commitment to integrating technology in the learning process.

CAJ’s Parallel Educational Services is another interesting aspect. This program has been supporting English-speaking homeschoolers since 1983 by offering consultancy, resources, and specific classes for homeschooled children. It seems like a great option for families looking for flexibility in their educational approach while still benefiting from CAJ’s quality of education. The school’s dedication to serving diverse families—whether they are fully homeschooling or supplementing their children’s education—demonstrates their commitment to inclusivity.

In terms of values, CAJ emphasizes the importance of community, which they view as a reflection of God’s nature. They aim to cultivate a “Christ-centered, nurturing, diverse, and inspiring learning community” where students are encouraged to build healthy relationships and a sense of responsibility both locally and globally. Their core values reflect a belief in the intrinsic worth of every individual, and they strive to help students recognize their unique gifts and the importance of serving others. As they put it, “Community requires service,” which underlines their focus on not just personal achievement but also on giving back.

Furthermore, CAJ is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), which reassures parents about the quality and credibility of the education their children will receive. They have a structured strategic plan that is regularly reviewed to ensure it aligns with their mission and goals. This focus on continuous improvement shows a strong commitment to adapting and evolving their programs and services to meet the needs of their students.

Ultimately, CAJ’s dedication to providing a comprehensive, Christ-centered education is clear. They aim to develop “Faithful Caretakers,” “Responsible Learners,” “Discerning Thinkers,” “Productive Collaborators,” and “Effective Communicators,” encouraging students to appreciate diverse cultures and languages while also fostering a deep sense of responsibility towards their community and the environment. It seems like a remarkable place for children to grow academically and spiritually, preparing them for lives of service and leadership.