East Asia Chinese Academy

EACA is one of the best Mandarin learning after school programs we have seen in CA and definitely the best program in San Bruno/​Millbrae/​Burlingame area. We had been looking for a Chinese after school program for our 7 year old to learn Mandarin in a safe environment. We visited a number of after school programs in the area and felt they were more like day care programs than language programs. Because EACA is not advertised or listed online, we didn’t know about it until we saw a flyer at the Millbrae Community Center. When we met with the director, Mrs Jin, we were immediately impressed with her experience, more than 20 years in primary and secondary education in China US, and her commitment to Mandarin education. We were relieved that the school places a strong emphasis on safety: all drivers responsible for school pick up have special driving training; there is constant adult supervision on the playground and in class room; Mrs. Jin herself was at our elementary school during the first week to make sure that the new kids know where to meet the driver. The curriculum at EACA is designed according to the child’s Mandarin ability. Other than Chinese and math lessons, the kids can do their homework. There are extra-​curriculum classes available, such as Kung Fu. Because the classes take place at the Millbrae Community Center, there is a huge playground and good sports facility close by.
Pros: Excellent Mandarin/​math teachers, emphasis on safety, convenient (pick up from elementary schools in the neighborhood), homework help, big play ground for exercises
Cons: the school was not advertised widely and we were so lucky to have found it!