There are two schools in the Zama school complex: John O. Arnn Elementary School and Zama American High School. If you have children in grades preK-6, they will attend Arnn Elementary School. Grades 7-12 attend Zama American High School.
A typical school year for the Camp Zama area schools runs from the last week in August to the second week in June. Schedules vary for both the elementary and high schools.
It is mandatory that all returning students register for school each year. Information updates are required to ensure sufficient staff is available to support student population. Registration packets are available upon request through the schools and may be obtained before your arrival.
The special education program for grades 7-12 is staffed by 2 full time teachers, a half-time speech therapist, and Paraprofessionals.
Parents who choose to educate their children at home are urged to consult with school officials (i.e. counselors) prior to making this decision. It is essential that parents utilize an educationally recognized independent home study program. At the end of the academic year parents are encouraged to test their child for academic achievement. A nationwide testing service is recommended. Students who are educated at home may be expected to take a DODDS administered test to ensure they are maintaining expected educational levels of learning prior to re-enrollment in a DODD school.
There are Japanese schools which Americans may attend on a tuition basis. Most require the student to speak Japanese. Some children enter these schools at preschool and kindergarten level and have a home tutor to help with their Japanese language skills. The Community Relations Office maintains information regarding these schools.
The School Liaison Officer (SLO) for the Zama Community is available to assist families who have school-age children enrolled in Zama High and Arnn Elementary School, or who are home-schooling their children. The School Liaison Officer is available to work with any school related issues such as assist families involved in home-schooling their children by offering/coordinating resources that are available within the community that will help broaden their youth's hands-on knowledge and experiences. Call 263-3241 or visit the CYS Central Registration Office (Room 108, Bldg 533).
The Army Education Center located at Camp Zama has qualified personnel to provide educational as well as vocational-technical guidance. Military personnel, civilians and family members on a space available basis, have many opportunities to continue their education while in Japan. Several civilian institutions offer resident credit at the Army Education Center, classes are held during off duty hours. The Central Texas College, the University of Maryland and University of Phoenix all participate in these programs.
