Katoh Gakuen students competing in a running race at their recent sports festival. TAKETOSHI ISHIKAWA
In early May, Katoh Gakuen Gyoshu Junior and Senior High celebrated their annual sports and culture festival. The cultural festival is touted as an event “for everyone who wants to have fun,” which couldn’t have been more true.
The students impressed everyone with their coordinated effort in designing a funhouse of smells, sights, and tasty treats. A variety of foods were served — from curry to Madeleine cookies, stores were created to sell artworks and recycled goods, skits and dance competitions were put on, and everything was thoughtfully intended to raise funds for various humanitarian organizations.
While these events were taking place, the brass band and choir effortlessly delivered moving performances to crowds of peers, friends, and family who tapped their feet along with the music. The day was full of smiles, enthusiasm, and school pride.
The fun was matched the following day during the sports day festivities. Sports day is a celebration of the community, sportsmanship, and teamwork; an opportunity to unify oneself with a team of healthy, active peers. Cheered on by family and friends, students participated in a variety of activities that included running relays, tug-of-war, and an obstacle course, to name a few. Even teachers were asked to lace up and join in on the fun with a new race for teacher and student teams.
These two events are highlights of the school year and noticeably important to everyone, even graduates, who choose this occasion as a time to revisit their alma mater. Both the cultural festival and the sports day offer important life lessons and strengthen community connectedness.
Katoh Gakuen is proud of its students and it was clear that everyone thoroughly enjoyed participating in all the fun. — LINDSAY RUDE
