Valley Stream Central Japanese course gets another boost

Two years after Central High School’s Japanese language program was considered for the chopping block during budget talks, the program is upgrading thanks to a grant that will provide for iPads to enhance learning.

Noriko Koide has taught the class since it was first offered a decade ago. She said the new technology will be a welcome addition to her class. “I think this will really help students be more engaged and will help them enjoy the work. I don’t want this to be just memorization. They should really learn and enjoy their work.”

The iPads will allow students to access lessons via educational software, while Koide gives more specialized instruction to students at other levels, said Dan Saitta, chair of the school’s foreign language department. “This should really help keep our kids learning and engaged while in the classroom, and really make sure that we’re taking advantage of everything we can to help them learn the language.”

The program survived budget cuts two years ago thanks to a grant Saitta secured from the Japan Foundation, an organization funded by the Japanese government that promotes international cultural exchange. An increase in state aid allowed the program to continue this year, and the Valley Stream Central High School District accepted the foundation’s grant for the iPads.

Takashi Imamura, treasurer of the Japan Foundation, said Central High School received the grant due to Koide and Saitta’s efforts to expose students in Valley Stream to the Japanese language and culture, and provide chances for them to use the language for future opportunities.