As parents of Polish-American children, and as members of the Board of Directors of the John Paul II School of Polish Language, we would like to tell you all about our school. It was established over 40 years ago by the Polish-American Educational Committee of San Francisco.

Our mission is to have our children, who grow up in an American society, learn the language and culture of Poland. Enriching their lives with Polish history and heritage provides them with a closer identity to their roots and family traditions. These experiences also create links and bonds with others within the Polish American community that can lead to travel, higher education and career opportunities.

We have many competent and devoted teachers, and highly engaged parents. We have, at our disposal, all necessary text books and learning tools. Children learn difficult Polish grammar and orthography, become acquainted with classical Polish literature, and learn Polish history and geography. They also have the option to attend catechism classes. Our students feel enriched and proud to be able to speak in more than one language, and to have contact with a centuries-old Slavic culture. Traditional Polish folk dancing and theatrical performances are some of the favorite activities among our students and their families. A few years ago, our school initiated Polish language classes for adults.

Many of the friendships forged within our school last years after the students’ graduation date. Polish school activities are followed by Polish Scouting Organization meetings. The scouts’ and school’s activities, such as games and dances, help develop a sense of Polish pride and identity within our students. The uniforms of Polish scouts are often praised by their American friends. The children who return from Polish Scouting events (such as summer camps, kayaking trips, and skiing expeditions) bring with them voices full of Polish songs, and priceless memories. They proudly sew on their newly acquired badges, commemorating the goals they have achieved.

Our school is a non-profit organization. Tuition fees cover less than half of the school’s expenses. Additional funds are provided by donations from Polonia (the Polish American Community), individual benefactors, and other friendly organizations. Our most important fundraising event is the annual Barbórka Ball. The expenses related to rental of the school campus, insurance, and modest teacher salaries are a set amount, and do not decrease when fewer students are enrolled.. Since we believe that no Polish children should be denied access to our school, aid is available for families with financial hardships.

We plead to all the people in our Polish community to help our school thrive. Your donations are tax deductible, and can be mailed to the school’s treasurer.
Make checks payable to the Polish-American Educational Committee of San Francisco, Inc. (PAEC).

Detailed information about our school’s activities can be obtained from the school’s principal, or the director.

If you are interested in enrolling yourself or your child in our program, you can come and visit us during school hours, at Walnut Creek United Methodist Church, 1543 Sunnyvale Avenue, Walnut Creek, CA 94596.