The 2013–2014 kindergarten graduates of Hitokoe Yokohama International School (HYIS) expressed gratitude to parents and teachers during last month’s graduation ceremony, at which they confidently recited their “Season of Spring” poem, reflected upon what they will miss about the school, enthusiastically sang “Yesterday’s Dream,” and gave speeches about their dreams for the future.
In response, the teachers and staff sang “Everyone is Special” with the students from the Rainbow and Sunshine classes. The younger students showed their appreciation for their older friends, to whom they dedicated songs like “That’s What Friends Are For,” and the overwhelmed staff sang “Count On Me.”
It was an emotional day for many; happy tears flowed as the kindergarten graduates faced the first phase of their elementary school lives with both pride and curiosity.
For the students that remain at HYIS, along with the new students that are soon to be welcomed, the ceremony ended with teachers revealing that the 2014–2015 academic year’s theme focuses on developing caring and supportive hearts in children. Springboard activities included a team-building game, a shared online reading of Mem Fox’s “Whoever You Are,” and an upbeat song about caring.
Many of the forthcoming year’s activities also touch on a cultural diversity theme, and the school has several multicultural-related events planned. HYIS is keen to encourage genuine care and respect for, and foster friendships between, children from all over the world, motivating their students to always focus on lifting someone up rather than putting them down.
HYIS has several fundraising projects planned along the theme of “Calling to Your Heart 2.” Mother’s Day will see a charity bake sale, and on the 30th of this month there will be a “Springy Spring” Festival. As in previous years, proceeds will be donated to World Vision Japan. — PATRICIA ALDANA
