Dear Spencer Butte Middle School community,

Good evening!

We are writing to share an important update regarding the future of the Japanese Language Immersion Program in Eugene School District 4J — and to outline what you can expect in the months ahead.

After careful consideration of data, logistics, and extensive community input — including surveys, ThoughtExchange reflections, direct communications, and the lived experiences shared by students, families, and staff — the Interim Superintendent, authorized by the Board of Directors, has decided that the 6–12 Japanese Language Immersion Program will transition to Spencer Butte Middle School and South Eugene High School.

Importantly, the 2025–26 school year will remain unchanged and will be dedicated to a thoughtful, student-centered planning process.

• The K–5 Yujin Gakuen Elementary Program will continue operating at 2855 Lincoln Street (Willard Site).

• The 6–8 program will transition to Spencer Butte Middle School, based on the transition timeline developed during the 2025–26 planning year.

• The 9–12 program will transition to South Eugene High School, based on the transition timeline developed during the 2025–26 planning year.

The exact pace and structure of the transition will be determined through careful engagement with families, students, and staff throughout 2025–26.

This transition will not be abrupt — it will be planned with care, stability, and student success as top priorities.

This decision reflects a thoughtful balance of key factors:

• The voices and experiences shared by  families, and educators

• The program’s long-term sustainability and growth

• Operational realities, including staffing and facilities.

• Our collective commitment to preserving the excellence of the Japanese Language Immersion experience for future generations.
  
  

What Comes Next

We want to be very clear:

• There will be no program changes during the 2025–26 school year.
  Students will continue attending their current schools and participating in the Japanese Language Immersion Program exactly as they do today.

• The 2025–26 school year will be dedicated entirely to planning and engagement.
  We are currently gathering additional input from Japanese Language Immersion Program students, families, and staff through a new survey. After reviewing the results, we will share a detailed transition plan outlining next steps.

• The transition will be carefully paced and student-centered.
  Our focus will be ensuring that students and staff are fully supported throughout the process.

We are committed to keeping you informed at every stage. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us or contact the district directly at japaneseimmersion@4j.lane.edu.

Thank you again for your partnership, care, and trust as we move forward together.

Sincerely, 

Paula Nolan
Principal
Spencer Butte Middle School