Our unique programs

Both of the mainstream programs- the Japanese Bilingual Bicultural Program (JBBP) and STEAM (GE) program learn the same core curriculum. The STEAM/GE program has regular time at the STEAM Lab, while the JBBP has regular Japanese lessons.

The students in the programs interact regularly on the lower yard, at recess, lunch and special events. We are proud of the inclusive and welcoming community that we have built between the two mainstream programs.

The SDC is a personalized program, and students in SDC share recess and lunch times with their grade level cohorts in the wider school community. Eventually they spend part of their day in either a STEAM or JBBP classroom according to their individualized learning and development plan.

The Early Education program at Raphael Weill is hosted in a separate building on site and the preschool students do not interact with the K-5 program at Rosa Parks on a daily basis except during a few events.

Read more about each program below!

  • STEAM / Gen. Ed.

    Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math

    The General Education program focuses on STEAM curriculum. The MakerSpace lab gives students opportunities to tinker, create, design and problem-solve collaboratively on projects.

    Our remodeled MakerSpace is staffed by a dedicated credentialed STEAM Coordinator. Lessons focus on hands-on learning and on themes, allowing students to learn STEAM concepts, problem solving skills, and to focus on a final project or activity showcasing what they have learned. The STEAM Coordinator works with teachers to develop classroom activities that build on the STEAM curriculum.

  • JBBP

    Japanese Bilingual Bicultural Program

    The JBBP focuses on learning Japanese language through culture and community. JBBP is not an immersion program, but rather a Foreign Language program with a strong cultural component of songs, activities and routines.

    Native Japanese speaking sensei (teachers) teach Japanese language for 40 minutes daily. Core curriculum instruction is taught in English.

    Japanese instruction and experiences delivered by native Japanese-speaking sensei is central to RP JBBP, reflecting the original Japanese Bilingual Bicultural Program model established 50 years ago. Students learn to speak, read and write in Japanese. Students who complete six years in the program will meet the 3rd grade national content standards for Japanese, established by the U.S. National Standards in Foreign Language Education Project.

    More about JBBP

  • SDC

    Special Day Classes

    There are three classes, a K-1, a 2-3, and a 3-5 classroom, and Resource Specialist (RSP) services. The classes are for students with mild to moderate learning differences with an autism focus. These classes focus on the learning and developmental needs of the students. The RSP teachers work with students with IEPs using modifications, accommodations, adaptations, strategies, and supports based on the core curriculum.

  • Pre-K

    Raphael Weill Early Education

    We provide challenging curriculum and engaging instruction in a student-centered learning environment. Our structured program focuses on early literacy, English language arts and mathematics, and includes guided learning, outdoor recreation and free choice activities. Our students and families come from around the globe, with many diverse home languages. We promote our common ties--one being our shared vision of success for all students.