Frequently asked questions

At what age can children join Vallalar Tamil School?

Children can join Vallalar Tamil School starting at the age of three in Pre-K or from the age of five or six in Kindergarten. Students who missed Tamil education in their early childhood and wish to join later are also welcome. We offer an advanced track for students aged 7 to 14, allowing them to join peers of their age group. Occasionally, we also have working adults studying at our school in adult classes. Therefore, age is not a limitation. Please contact the school for assistance in learning our classical Tamil language.

How can I contact Vallalar Tamil School for any questions?

Please contact Vallalar Tamil School at 609-904-3155 or email us at mail@njvallalarpalli.org. Email is the preferred method of communication. If you include your contact number in the email, one of our school administrators will call you back.

When does Vallalar Tamil School School year start?

Vallalar Tamil School follows the academic year from September to June. For specific dates, please refer to our school calendar.

How are the Tamil classes conducted?

Vallalar Tamil School holds in-person classes at Community Middle School, Plainsboro. Classes are on Fridays from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Occasionally, due to inclement weather or when the middle school is unavailable due to events, classes are conducted online.

What syllabus and textbooks does Vallalar Tamil School use?

Vallalar Tamil School follows the California Tamil Academy (CTA) syllabus, designed for children growing up in America. CTA has been a renowned syllabus for Tamil learning in America for over two decades. Each student receives a textbook, workbook, and handwriting book.

How do we pay the fees for Tamil classes?

School fees can be paid using Zelle or by check. Zelle payments can be sent to vallalarpalli@gmail.com, and checks should be made payable to “Vallalar Tamil School”. Please ensure to write the Student’s First & Last Name in the Memo section of the Zelle or Check.

What happens if I move to a different state?

Students can transfer to another CTA Tamil School. Fees are refunded, minus the cost of books and other prorated charges, if the student leaves the school during the first term. After the first term, no refunds will be given.

What events does the school conduct?

The school conducts three major events: Pongal, Annual Day, and Graduation/Biliteracy Day. Pongal includes Tamil language-based contests such as fancy dress competitions, poetry recitals, oratory contests, Kural Theni, and Tamil Theni. Annual Day showcases student talents in skits, dance, and drama. Graduation and Biliteracy Day celebrate our students who have graduated and earned the Biliteracy Seal from the State of New Jersey.

Does Vallalar Tamil School conduct Biliteracy Seal classes?

Yes, Vallalar Tamil School conducts Biliteracy classes. Please refer to the Biliteracy section on our website for detailed information and FAQs.

Does Vallalar Tamil School have a High School Volunteer Program?

Yes, Vallalar Tamil School has a High School Volunteer Program where students volunteer as student teachers and assist in various school activities. This provides valuable experience, and they also receive the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) and the Vallalar Student Volunteer Award (VSVA). These awards enhance high school students’ eligibility for the National Honor Society (NHS) and strengthen their college applications.

Can parents join as volunteers?

Yes, Vallalar Tamil School is a volunteer-based non-profit organization, and we welcome parents to volunteer in various roles.

Can parents participate in school cultural activities?

Absolutely. Parents are encouraged to showcase their talents during school events.