The Founder's Words and Educational Philosophy
Since my arrival at the U.S. in the late 1950s, I have been constantly searching for the best way to educate Japanese people in the U.S. through trial and error, and it is now almost 40 years later. Since its inception, the Lyceum Kennedy International School has been committed to fostering the development of bi-cultural individuals who can contribute to the global community of the 21st century. With two locations, one in Manhattan and the other in Ardsley, Westchester County, the school has earned a reputation as an educational institution where Japanese and French children living in New York City can receive a solid education in their native languages while simultaneously incorporating American culture. While memorization and strict discipline are important for infants and toddlers, our school places particular emphasis on developing the habit of curiosity, exploration, and thinking. In addition, interaction with the French school allows the children to be aware of their own identity and to communicate naturally across racial boundaries. We will do our best to provide an educational environment where children can grow and develop in an increasingly chaotic society.
(From Koji Sonoda's "Lyceum Kennedy Japanese School, School Guide” in 2000)
Educational Philosophy
1. To provide children living in the U.S., where the language and customs are different, with the opportunity to learn the basics of the Japanese language and to develop stable emotions and thinking abilities.
2. Based on Japanese culture and tradition, we aim to develop excellent personalities who will be worthy of leading the future and who will be able to contribute to the international community.
3. To foster the discipline of group behavior, and at the same time, help develop a willingness and attitude to work actively and creatively.
4. To teach children the joy of interacting with others through a variety of activities that match their growth process.