Join the Founding Team – Licensed Elementary Homeroom Teachers (Grades 1–3)
Kumamoto Christian International (KCI) is a new Christian international elementary school opening in April 2026 in Kumamoto City, Japan. Operated by Hilltop International School — an established early childhood program with over 18 years of experience and more than 100 students — KCI will begin with Grades 1–3 and add one grade each year until Grade 6.
Our mission is to provide an excellent education rooted in biblical truth, equipping students to grow in faith, knowledge, and character. With small class sizes, caring teachers, and a Christ-centered curriculum aligned with U.S. standards (Common Core/AERO), we nurture the whole child academically, spiritually, and socially.
Looking forward, KCI is actively pursuing international accreditation (ACSI) and plans to expand into junior high and high school. Teachers who join our founding team will enjoy meaningful opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and long-term community impact.
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:
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A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages about ¥65,000/month (≈$444), compared to about ¥150,000/month (≈$1,020) in Tokyo
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A single person’s monthly expenses including rent are around ¥153,000 (≈$1,039), versus about ¥254,000 (≈$1,723) in Tokyo
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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
Job Description / Duties
Homeroom teachers at KCI are responsible for leading a single grade level (Grade 1, 2, or 3) and providing both high-quality academics and Christ-centered spiritual guidance.
Teaching Load: Approximately 20–25 hours per week within a 40-hour work week, including about 2.5 hours of Bible instruction.
Duties include:
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Teach core subjects including literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies
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Provide Bible instruction for approximately 2.5 hours per week, integrating biblical truth into teaching and modeling Christian values in daily classroom life
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Create a Christ-centered classroom environment that nurtures faith, character, and a love of learning
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Design lesson plans, assessments, and classroom activities aligned with AERO/Common Core standards
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Support students’ academic, spiritual, and social-emotional growth
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Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners
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Maintain classroom management and establish clear routines and expectations
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Collaborate with colleagues, administrators, and parents to support student success
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Participate in chapel, school events, and extracurricular activities
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Assist in the school’s accreditation process (ACSI) and contribute to curriculum development
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Take on additional responsibilities according to gifting (such as art, music, or clubs)
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Engage in professional development and contribute to building a positive, collaborative school culture
Job Requirements
Must Have:
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Native-level English proficiency
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Bachelor’s degree in Education (or closely related field)
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Valid teaching license/certification in home country
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Minimum 1 year of full-time classroom teaching experience at the elementary grade level in a school setting
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Committed Christian, active in a local church
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Agreement with KCI’s mission, vision, and values
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Willingness to comply with background check and safeguarding standards
Preferred Qualifications:
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ACSI certification or eligibility
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Experience in international or Christian schools
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Experience or skills in art and/or music education
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Japanese language ability (helpful but not required)
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Driver’s license and access to car/scooter (for commuting and daily life in Kumamoto)
What We Offer
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Salary: ¥300,000–¥350,000/month (based on experience and qualifications)
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Health insurance and visa sponsorship
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A supportive, faith-based, and lovely working environment
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Small class sizes and a strong sense of community
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5 weeks paid vacation + all Japanese national holidays
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Assistance in finding housing (note: housing and relocation costs are not covered by the school)
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Opportunities for advancement and leadership as the school expands into upper elementary, junior high, and high school
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Salary increases as the school grows and expands
Contract Details
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One-year renewable contract, with expectation of long-term employment
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Start Date: January–March 2026 (negotiable)
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Multi-year opportunities available as the school expands
How to Apply
Interested applicants should send the following by email:
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Resume/CV
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Cover letter (including a statement of Christian faith)
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Recent photo
Email: martytomao@hilltop-is.com or martytomao@gmail.com
Instagram: @hilltop_international_school
