Paul C Jacobs
I live in Japan, where I work to support multilingual and neurodivergent learners to connect with the world around them through language learning. My focus includes Japanese-English biliteracy, cross-cultural collaboration, and helping students with special educational needs, particularly those with dyslexia.
My passion for this work comes from my own childhood. At age seven, I moved from the United States to Japan without speaking Japanese. I became bilingual and bicultural through play, school, and persistence—but I also struggled with a learning disability that made school challenging. These experiences gave me a deep empathy for the children and families I now support.
As the Head Researcher at the Institute of Bilingual Science (IBS), I connect academic research on bilingualism with practical guidance for educators and parents. I also facilitate professional development that brings together Japanese and English-speaking teachers to better support their multilingual learners.
I live in Okinawa, Japan, and love going on small adventures with my family throughout the island. I especially enjoy watching FC Ryukyu soccer matches together, and I also serve as a lay leader at my church, Okinawa Central Church of Christ.
Mission
My mission is to make language learning accessible and joyful for all children. I do this by creating simple, research-based tools and training that teachers, afterschool staff, and parents in Japan can use with confidence.
Vision
I want every child in Japan—especially those growing up multilingual or with special learning needs—to feel proud of who they are and excited to learn. My vision is a community where teachers, families, and programs have the support they need to help these children thrive through language.