Does Japanese etiquette apply at school?

Hi! I am an American and I always sit by at lunch and say hi to a Japanese girl whom I would like to become better friends with. I would like to know if I need to follow all of the Japanese etiquette that she is probably used to at the lunch table or at school. I cannot speak Japanese and she speaks very little English but somehow we understand eachother. We make eye contact and smile often and laugh at jokes together. Is this considered rude? I would really like to get to know her better and have been researching Japanese culture, customs, and etiquette. Is there anything I can do too make her feel more welcome here in America?

You are in U.S., so do not worry about Japanese ettiquette. Young people don't care to followt it anyway.

Asking her about Japanese shool life is a good way to start a conversation with her. You could ask her if there is anything you can do to make her feel comfortable. I am sure she will be happy to have a freiend like you.