Program
Daruma no Gakko 2024
June 24th- July 12th
Berkeley Methodist United Church, 1710 Carleton Street, Berkeley, CA 94703
Daruma no Gakko is a summer program designed for children to learn about Japanese American heritage through the program’s unique curriculum. It is designed to develop strong, positive self-images and identities through the study of Japanese American traditions and history.
Morning Program (entering grades 1-6)
Monday - Friday
9am - 12pm
Students are engaged through a fun and varied curriculum. The morning program is packed with activities, such as language study, Japanese and Nikkei history, cooking, paper making, origami, woodworking, music, and games. Students are introduced to traditional arts, such as tea ceremony, flower arranging (ikebana), and use of the abacus (soroban).
Afternoon Program (entering grades 1-6)
Monday - Friday
12pm - 3:30pm
The Afternoon Program has a different format than morning DNG classes. However, we still include fun Japanese-American heritage and cultural activities, such as: language & word games, arts & crafts, exercise/movement, library corner, cooking projects, and special guests & projects.
Middle School Program (entering grade 7) New!
Monday - Friday
9am - 3:30pm
Daruma no Gakko’s new middle school program is designed to develop service and leadership skills and values through project-based learning projects in the local Nikkei community. In addition to traditional Daruma activities, such as language study, arts and crafts, and cooking, students will participate in volunteer opportunities and build research and presentation skills in a collaborative learning environment. Please note that caregivers must be able to provide transportation to/from volunteer site (JSEI in Emeryville) on designated days.
Program Aides
(entering grades 8+)
Aides help students and teachers in classrooms by modeling and supporting individuals with activities, preparing materials, and helping with clean up.
More information on job duties + requirements: Morning Program Aide | Aftercare Recreation Leader
To apply, please email dngreg@gmail.com to request an application link.
Daruma no Gakko depends on a co-op format and volunteer participation to keep program fees low and the quality of programming high. Caregiver participation is required for each enrolled student.
Programs forms, such as the Daruma no Gakko Code of Conduct and Family Pledge, medication forms, teacher and aide application forms, and more.
Maintaining your child's health and safety is our top priority. Daruma no Gakko follows COVID health and safety guidelines as set by the City of Berkeley.