An Introduction to Fremont Chinese School

In 1972, Fremont Chinese School (FCS) started its first class in a Newark home by a group of parents. Later on, FCS used a grant from Ohlone College to rent regular classrooms from Newark Community Center. When the funding was cut, FCS began collecting tuition to cover the classroom rental and teachers’ salaries. In 1986, FCS was formally registered as a non-profit organization, and moved to Mission San Jose High School, Fremont. In 1994, FCS started to hold classes at its current location, Irvington High School.

With an average of 17% annual growth rate, FCS continually adds to its 1100 students, 60 teachers, 70 staffs, 43 language classes (k-12), and various extra-curriculum such as calligraphy, abacus, music, dancing, Chinese yo-yo, soccer, and basketball. For K-8 graders, FCS uses "Children's Chinese Reader" provided by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission (OCAC) of the Republic of China as our textbooks.

In 1992, FCS started the Accredited Program to provide Chinese as a "Foreign Language Elective" to 9-12 graders. It adapted "Integrated Chinese" as the teaching material, a series of Chinese learning programs that was first introduced into the University of California systems. The Chinese language credits earned from this program are transferable to many school districts, including Fremont, Newark, and Union City.

FCS has a group of highly trained and motivated teachers. With their help, FCS has been able to standardize the instruction material and supplemental. They also pass these materials and experience on to members of the Association of Northern California Chinese School (ANCCS).

FCS is a well-structured organization with clearly defined charters and job functions. The Parent Association (PA) is the highest decision-making body. Every parent of the school is automatically a member of the PA. Under PA, the School Board undertakes long term planning and policymaking. The School Board has 7 members: two principals (current and former), two PA chairpersons (current and former), and three parents elected at-large.

Reporting to the School Board is the Parent Representative Group (two parents from each class) and Administration Group (70 staffs including principal, secretariat, curriculum, finance, etc). For 30 years, Fremont Chinese School has always been operated by an all- volunteer administration staff. No staff receives any compensation.

FCS has shared its successful experience with other local Chinese schools including Tri-City, Hann-Sing, Yellow River, and Wisdom, without reservation. It also takes an active role in supporting its host school, Irvington High School, and other community activities.

FCS adheres to the spirit of "Team Work" and "Play Together, Work Together" in achieving its Mission Statements: (1) To promote the Chinese language and culture heritage; (2) To provide an environment for Chinese language learning; and (3) To participate in and contribute to community services.