The Colorado Sakura Academy

The Founding of our School

The Roots of My Journey

Growing up at the intersection of different cultures, I’ve always felt that language is more than just words. I’ve discovered that it’s a window into a way of being. As I built my career as an actuary and navigated the complexities of business ownership in Colorado, I found myself constantly returning to the values of discipline, community, and mindfulness deeply rooted in Japanese heritage.

However, I noticed a gap. While the interest in Japanese culture is growing, the opportunities for deep, immersive, and culturally authentic learning, especially for the homeschool community, were few and far between.

The Spark of Inspiration

The idea for the Colorado Sakura Academy didn't happen overnight. It grew from a series of moments:

Watching the joy of students discovering their first kanji.

Realizing the need for a curriculum that goes beyond textbooks to include the "heart" of Japan, its traditions, its seasons, and its etiquette.

My involvement with the Japanese School of Denver PTA showed me how hungry families are for a supportive, culturally rich community.

Why Now?

I believe that education should be as vibrant and resilient as the cherry blossoms (Sakura) themselves. I wanted to create a space where homeschoolers could experience a comprehensive journey into Japanese culture, one that fits into their unique lifestyle while providing the structure and depth they deserve.

By founding this academy, I am merging my professional background in logistics and planning with my personal passion for cultural preservation. I’m not just teaching a language; I’m cultivating a community of global citizens right here in the shadow of the Rockies.

My Commitment

My goal is to provide the spirit of exploration combined with the precision of Japanese tradition. Whether we are practicing calligraphy or learning the history of the seasons, this program is my way of giving back to a culture that has given me so much, ensuring that its beauty continues to bloom in the hearts of our children.

— Kaz Nagai Founder of Colorado Sakura Academy

Our Mission

The mission of Colorado Sakura Academy is to provide world-class Japanese language programs for students aged 9 to 18, resulting in language proficiency, cultural understanding, and global connectivity. We encourage a lifelong interest in language acquisition by providing a supportive environment and promoting cultural sensitivity.

Our Vision

Our vision is to create a community of globally minded students who are proficient in multiple languages and cultures and equipped to navigate the complexities of our interconnected world. We strive to foster an environment that encourages intellectual curiosity, cultural sensitivity, and lifelong learning.

Contact us

Do you have any questions about the Colorado Sakura Academy? Message us and we’ll get back with you as soon as possible!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We are a homeschool enrichment program offering classes teaching Japanese language arts, culinary arts, and culture in a hands-on learning environment.

  • Getting started is simple. Apply to enroll here!

  • Because we are a homeschool enrichment program, tuition is free!


    The trip to Japan is the parent/guardians’ financial responsibility, but we will offer many fundraising opportunities throughout the year to ease the burden.

  • Please select your student’s grade for the 2026-27 school year.

  • As of April 2026, the place prices for April 2027 are not available. We will let families know the estimated costs as soon as details. are available to us.

  • Please see our Week 1 curriculum here.
    The weekly curriculum will be posted in a newsletter. Please sign up for the newsletter here!