For Elijah Luong and Eleanor Chow, completing both Kumon Reading and Math represents years of discipline and hard work. Their achievements at Kumon of Los Alamitos demonstrate what students can accomplish one worksheet at a time.
Kumon is an individualized program that fosters academic independence and self-learning skills. Kumon Reading progresses from foundational literacy to high school literature, developing students’ ability to analyze complex texts, interpret themes, and think critically. Kumon Math progresses from basic arithmetic to advanced concepts, including algebra and calculus. Each level builds on previously mastered skills, encouraging accuracy and problem-solving.
Courtesy photo
With a total of 27 Reading levels and 20 Math levels, completing either Kumon program before graduating high school is a significant accomplishment. Elijah completed Reading in sixth grade and Math in eighth grade, at age 14, after nine years of study. Eleanor completed Reading in third grade and Math in seventh grade, following eight years in the program.
For Elijah, memorizing formulas and tackling difficult problems were his biggest challenges. He stayed motivated by viewing each assignment as one obstacle less to finishing. Eleanor also faced moments when daily homework felt overwhelming, which she overcame by setting her completion goal in fifth grade, consistently completing her worksheet packets, and attending weekly sessions.
Both students have been able to apply the lessons learned from Kumon at school. Elijah found many topics easier because he had studied similar concepts in advance, and Eleanor developed strong reading comprehension and math skills while building discipline and independence. Beyond the classroom, the perseverance and confidence fostered by Kumon will continue setting both students up for further success in the future.
Elijah and Eleanor have some words of wisdom to share with current and future students. Elijah encourages students to understand examples and ask instructors for help, while Eleanor reminds them that every effort adds up and reaps rewards, even if the benefits don’t show up instantaneously.
Outside Kumon, Elijah enjoys golf and piano. Eleanor balances orchestra, karate, Junior PGA golf, student leadership, and Future Business Leaders of America.
Center Director and Instructor Lynn Shimohara-Lee congratulates both students and hopes their accomplishments will inspire others to see what they can achieve when they set a goal, work hard, and never give up.