On March 4th this year, Caroline Pover — as publisher of Japan School News and author of the Guide to International Schools in Japan — was given an Outstanding Service Award by the US-based Women’s Information Network (WIN) for her contributions to schools in Japan. This award was part of a global recognition of women’s activities in their communities, in celebration of the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day.
Fifteen women in each US state and one woman in each of the 176 participating countries throughout the world were honoured for outstanding service in the areas of family; business; school or church; community or women’s organization; and country, government, or military service.
Ms Pover shares her award with all the women in Japan who have dedicated many years of their lives to education, and have touched the minds of thousands of young people. She invited the international school community to nominate women they believed deserved to be recognized.
The following women were recognized for their outstanding service to education in Japan:
Kristine Bordner
Aoba-Japan International School
Aoba-Japan International School (A-JIS) recognized Kristine Bordner for establishing and administrating the A-JIS Learning Support Program and her continued dedication to educating children with special needs.
Noriko Akahane
Canadian International School Tokyo
Canadian International School Tokyo recognized office manager Noriko Akahane for her listening ear, wise counsel, and ready smile, as well as the care and concern she shows for everyone’s needs, difficulties, and requests.
Sachiko Tawa
Gymboree Play & Music
Gymboree Play & Music recognized Sachiko Tawa for her strong commitment to Gymboree, and for making it her priority to attract as many new customers as possible through her direct teaching and as lead trainer.
Kyoko Goto
Horizon Japan International School
Horizon Japan International School recognized their accountant, Kyoko Goto, for her outstanding dedication to the school, and the exceptional relationships she has helped build among the members of the Horizon community.
Yukiko Nakajima
International Community School
International Community School (ICS) recognized Japanese coordinator Yukiko Nakajima for her hard work in developing and teaching a creative curriculum, and for helping foreign children progress at Japanese public schools.
Kumi Sugisawa
Katoh Gakuen
Katoh Gakuen recognized Kumi Sugisawa for the incredible job she does in keeping the immersion program running and the tireless support she provides the staff — always with grace, kindness, and a joyful heart.
