FCPS recently hosted the 8th National Junior Japan Bowl, a quiz-bowl-style Japanese language and culture competition. The virtual event showcased spirited participation from 517 elementary and middle school students representing 26 schools and 10 states.

The competition delves into different topics in Japanese such as geography and transportation, history from the 14th to 19th centuries, performing arts, and traditional sweets. Students competed individually and in teams of two to three players. The game is facilitated via Kahoot digital games, and questions are designed to test participants' knowledge and understanding. 

The annual National Junior Japan Bowl is organized by Fairfax County Public Schools teachers and a parent, who are members of J-LEARN (Japanese Language Education Advocacy and Resource Network). 

“The 8th National Junior Japan Bowl stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of educators, parents, and students in fostering cultural understanding and linguistic proficiency,” explained Nichole Mayfield, competition emcee and a Japanese teacher at South Lakes High School and Hughes Middle School.

J-LEARN held the inaugural Junior Japan Bowl in 2017. In its first year, the competition was held in an FCPS elementary school classroom with 12 elementary students. Every year since, the number of competitors has grown. It now includes students from all over the United States.

“FCPS' strong participation, with 225 students representing our schools, shines a light on the district's commitment to promoting global awareness and language education among its student body,” Mayfield continued. “Many of our students secured top positions in various categories. Reflecting on this enriching experience, we anticipate continued engagement and growth in the education of the Japanese language and culture within the FCPS community.”

FCPS Student Winners of the 8th National Junior Japan Bowl:  

Level 3 Individual

• 1st - Lucia I., Hayfield Secondary School
• 2nd - Sana R., Cooper Middle School
• 3rd - Jamie S., Cooper Middle School
• 4th - Emma J., Carson Middle School
• 5th - Magnolia T., Carson Middle School

Level 3 Team

• 1st - Sana R. and Jamie S., Cooper Middle School
• 2nd - Emma J., Magnolia T., and Milly T.; Carson Middle School

Level 2 Individual 

• 1st - Vivienne S., Great Falls Elementary School
• 2nd - Christopher K., Great Falls Elementary School
• 3rd - Rina P., Great Falls Elementary School
• 5th - William D., Fox Mill Elementary

Level 2 Team

• 1st - Vivienne S., Christopher K., and Rina P.; Great Falls Elementary School
• 2nd - Vir N., William D., and Simon P.; Fox Mill Elementary School
• 3rd - Noah D. and Rocco S., Great Falls Elementary School
• 4th - Emma T., Mika T., and Yuki M.; Fox Mill Elementary School

Level 1 Individual

• 1st - Ellie Z., Great Falls Elementary School

Level 1 Team

• 1st - Sachi P., Ellie Z., and Zac S.; Great Falls Elementary School
• 4th - Daniel S., Mona Z., and Veronika S.; Fox Mill Elementary School