Description
Homeroom teachers at Kumamoto Christian International (KCI) are responsible for leading a single grade level (Grade 1 or 2) and providing both high-quality academics and Christ-centered spiritual guidance. Teaching load averages 20–25 hours per week within a 40-hour work week and includes approximately 2.5 hours of Bible instruction.
Duties include:
Teach core subjects including literacy (language arts), mathematics, science, and social studies
Provide Bible instruction for approximately 2.5 hours per week, integrating biblical truth into teaching and modeling Christian values in daily classroom life
Create a Christ-centered classroom environment that nurtures faith, character, and a love of learning
Design lesson plans, assessments, and classroom activities aligned with AERO/Common Core standards
Support students’ academic, spiritual, and social-emotional growth
Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners
Maintain classroom management and establish clear routines and expectations
Collaborate with colleagues, administrators, and parents to support student success
Participate in chapel, school events, and extracurricular activities
Assist with the school’s ACSI accreditation process and contribute to curriculum development.
Take on additional responsibilities according to gifting (such as art, music, or clubs)
Engage in professional development and contribute to building a positive, collaborative school culture
What We Offer:
Health insurance and visa sponsorship
A supportive, faith-based, and caring working environment
Small class sizes and a strong sense of community
6 weeks paid vacation + all Japanese national holidays
Assistance in finding housing (note: housing and relocation costs are not covered by the school)
Opportunities for advancement and leadership as the school expands into upper elementary, junior high, and high school
Salary increases as the school grows and expands
ACSI member school
CAJ (Christian Academy in Japan) Parallel program member
As a founding teacher, you will have the unique opportunity to help shape KCI’s programs, traditions, and community culture as the school grows.
Why Kumamoto?
Kumamoto, located in the heart of Kyushu, is one of Japan’s most livable and welcoming cities. Known for Kumamoto Castle, nearby Mt. Aso, hot springs, and a relaxed pace of life, the city offers the perfect balance of culture, nature, and modern convenience.
For teachers and families, Kumamoto also offers an important advantage — affordability:
(Due to the current exchange rate against the dollar, the salary may appear lower than it actually is. However, the amount offered is more than sufficient to enjoy a comfortable life here.)
A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages about ¥65,000/month (≈$444), compared to about ¥150,000/month (≈$1,020) in Tokyo
A single person’s monthly expenses including rent are around ¥153,000 (≈$1,039), versus about ¥254,000 (≈$1,723) in Tokyo
Overall, living costs in Kumamoto are about 40% lower than Tokyo, making everyday life more comfortable while leaving room to enjoy travel, dining, and the natural beauty of Kyushu
We are prayerfully seeking dedicated educators who desire to combine professional excellence with a deep love for God and students. If this mission resonates with you, we invite you to apply and join us as we build a Christ-centered learning community in Kumamoto.
Requirements
KCI is a new, Christ-centered international school opening in April 2026. We are prayerfully seeking passionate educators to join our founding team.
Before applying, please take a moment to read and make sure you understand and agree with the following requirements. We kindly ask that only applicants who meet these qualifications submit an application.
Job Requirements (Must Have)
Native-level English proficiency
Bachelor’s degree in Education (or a closely related field)
Valid teaching license/certification from the applicant’s home country
Minimum of one year of full-time classroom teaching experience (multiple subjects) at the elementary level in a school setting
Committed Christian, active in a local church
Agreement with KCI’s mission, vision, and values
Applicants currently residing in Japan are preferred; however, overseas applicants are also welcome.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Flexibility and adaptability in a cross-cultural environment
Willingness to comply with background check and safeguarding standards
Minimum two-year commitment
Ability to arrive in Kumamoto between January 15 and March 15, 2026
Preferred Qualifications
ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) certification or eligibility
Experience in international or Christian schools
Experience or skills in art, music, and/or physical education.
Japanese language ability (helpful but not required)
Driver’s license and access to a car or scooter (for commuting and daily life in Kumamoto)
Our Mission
Kumamoto Christian International provides a Christ-centered education that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit of every child. We seek to help students grow in wisdom, character, and compassion through learning rooted in the love and teachings of Jesus Christ. Through English-immersion learning, moral guidance, and a caring international community, KCI prepares students to make a positive impact in the world with integrity, kindness, and excellence.
The Kumamoto Christian International (KCI) website will go live on Wednesday, October 29th. It will still be under construction, but we invite you to visit and learn more about our vision. We’ve also just launched our official Instagram account —please take a look and follow our progress.
We also operate Hilltop International School, an established English-immersion kindergarten. To get a better sense of who we are and the learning environment we provide, please visit our Hilltop website or check out our Instagram account.
