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Summer School Last Day Event Beach BBQ
Summer School Last Day Event Beach BBQ
August 9, 2024
August 9, 2024
On August 9th, the final day of summer school featured a Fun Day event with a beach BBQ. This year's summer school was blessed with good weather, allowing us to carry out all the planned events as scheduled. On this day, under the blue sky, the children happily enjoyed swimming in the ocean. I was a bit concerned about the heat, so I asked a few students, "Aren't you hot?" They surprisingly replied, "The water feels great. It's the best!" After swimming, we had the BBQ, and then we took another dip in the water. By 2 PM, everyone had come out of the ocean, and we cleaned up the area around the beach as part of our post-BBQ cleanup. We then held the closing ceremony, the final event of summer school. As I handed out certificates of completion to each child, I expressed my encouragement and gratitude. Over the three weeks filled with "thinking," "laughing," "sweating," "dancing," and "singing," they truly worked hard until the very end. Thank you!
Before the BBQ, we took a group photo. It was so bright that I didn’t know which camera to look at! The peace signs were all over the place, but it made for a great memory.
Before entering the ocean, I gave the children some important instructions. They need to follow the adults' directions while in the water. Remember, don’t go beyond the adults!
Kindergarteners and first graders, you’re all ready! You’re listening to the teacher’s instructions so well. Fantastic!
Let's go to the sea!
Minako-sensei’s husband also helped with student management. Thank you!
Please don’t go into the deep water. Swim towards the sandy beach! Teacher Rika did a great job managing the students.
First graders (on the left) and fourth graders (above), your joy really shines through! The cool guy in the back is Caelin, a graduate of our school. After hiking, he continued to help with student management. This time, his younger brother Ryan, a second-year student at our junior high, joined in as well. Both of them were amazing, playing with the kids and keeping an eye on those trying to go into the deep water. They were a huge help!
Third graders, yay! This is the best! We're about to go into the ocean!
I have nothing to add.
I feel like a fish! Or maybe a turtle!?
Something is approaching from behind (a turtle?).
Roar! Eek, help me!
Okay, pose! It’s so bright!
Is that a crab you’re holding? What is it?
M-san is taking care of her little sister. Look at the camera! You can see her kindness shining through.
Playing happily in the sand!
Even with life jackets on, it’s not safe in the deep water. Let’s return to the shallow area. Parents are also focused on student management. Thank you!
I’m watching over the students from the beach with a megaphone.
Younger students were closely monitored by many adults. Safety measures were perfect!
Ah, it feels great!
Teacher, give me a piggyback! Ok! So much kindness!
It’s break time. Everyone should follow the rules properly.
I hydrated and am taking a good break while eating snacks.
Jumping high towards the sea! Nice shot!
K loves both the mountains and the sea. What are you making?
A parent-child pose. The smiles are wonderful!
"That's enough! Please swim in the opposite direction." This is Kairan-san and Ryan-san calling out to the students. They really did a great job.
While managing the students, they also play with them. These two are very busy. Is this like an airplane taking off, or the Titanic?!
"Ms. Aika, this is too deep! The water is up to my neck!"
Middle school students are playing with a ball. Wait, there's a sixth grader mixed in too. When it comes to playing, grades don't matter. Let's all have fun together!
"We welcome anyone and will play together with everyone."
"Me too, I want to throw it! Oh, it’s a bit heavy. Here we go!"
"Everyone, it's break time. Please come out of the water. Everyone listens."
"I wonder what the parent and child are talking about. Are they having fun? Yes, of course!"
"It was fun! Thank you very much!"
"Lecture by Yukino Kinjo, CEO of Manatee Co., Ltd., on August 8."
"Lecture by Yukino Kinjo, CEO of Manatee Co., Ltd., on August 8."
"On August 8, we invited Ms. Yukino Kinjo from Manatee to speak about marine environmental conservation activities, incorporating English into her presentation. She explained that Manatee is currently focused on beach clean-up activities and that the community of people who care for the ocean is gradually expanding.
Ms. Kinjo shared her shock upon discovering that a sunscreen she casually used on a remote island beach contained harmful substances for corals. This realization led her to develop 'coral-friendly sunscreen,' and she shared the stories that brought her to her current work.
The children listened quietly to Ms. Kinjo’s presentation, but during break time, they gathered around her, asking various questions about the 'coral-friendly sunscreen.' They even had the opportunity to try it on their faces and arms while learning about its quality."
"Ms. Yukino Kinjo from Manatee explains in Japanese and English while showing a video. She explained that corals are animals, and if the sea temperature rises by just 2 degrees, they will bleach and die. Hearing this, the children seriously pondered, 'What can we do?'"
"'Why is the 'coral-friendly sunscreen' considered gentle?'"
"If you apply it after spraying with toner, it spreads more easily."
"The children are very curious about the 'coral-friendly sunscreen'!"
"Coral-friendly sunscreen."
"At the end, each group presented on the following: 'the topic they chose,' 'why they chose that topic and what interested them,' and 'the group's conclusion.'"
"First-year student S shared a lot about 'environmental issues' during the presentations."
"Sixth grader A gave a theoretical presentation on 'power harassment.
"With the flute, piano, and sanshin ensemble backing her, Ms. Hibiki sang 'Asadoya Yunta,' one of Okinawa's representative folk songs. The students sang the chorus, and the call-and-response parts were spot on: 'Iya-sasa' and 'Hai-ya.'"
"3rd Music Class, August 7."
"3rd Music Class, August 7."
"We held the third music class conducted by the teachers from the Okinawa Music Friends Association for students in the third grade and above. This time, they introduced Okinawan songs, and everyone enjoyed singing along while keeping the rhythm. They also introduced traditional Okinawan Eisa music, which really energized the venue. The highlight was when tenor Kinna-san performed 'Tōsen Dōi' in an operatic style, which was truly impressive."
In the lyrics of "Tinsagu nu Hana," the red flower of the hibiscus is said to dye one’s fingertips, symbolizing the timeless importance of parental teachings that deeply resonate in our hearts.
While it's uncertain whether the children fully understood the meaning of the lyrics, they seem to sense that the song conveys something significant based on its melody and tone.
Meanings of the verses:
The hibiscus flower dyes my fingertips.
The stars in the heavens, though countless, are still numbered.
The ships navigating the night sea are guided by the North Star.
The teachings of parents deeply resonate within the heart.
The teachings of parents are countless and invaluable.
The parents who gave me life are my greatest support.
Funky the Clown balloon workshop August 2nd
Funky the Clown balloon workshop August 2nd
On August 2nd, we held a special activity featuring an art balloon-making workshop led by the staff from Okinawa Balloon Sales Art Balloon Shop. The workshop was aimed at children from preschool to second grade. Using balloons, they created crowns, octopuses, and fish.
The children carefully observed the staff's techniques and worked hard to use their creativity. Some kids accidentally popped their balloons, but everyone was able to create the intended artwork. The children were thrilled to take home their finished balloon art as a special gift. It was a very enjoyable time for all!
On the right, E-chan is happily wearing a balloon dress made by the staff along with the crown she created herself.
"The staff dressed as clowns teach how to make art (fish)."
"How do you tie it? You twist it like this and bend it."
"They think and experiment as they watch, trying to create it."
"For the final touch, they add the eyes. 'Teacher, I did it!' 'Great job!'"
The last members reached the summit of "Ishikawa Peak, 204 m." J-kun and Y-kun hesitated multiple times, crouching down to decide whether to descend or continue, but as they got closer to the peak, they became more energized and finally made it to the top, looking truly happy. I was deeply moved by the change in their spirits. I couldn't help but give a peace sign! From left to right: Ms. Zena, Y-kun, J-kun, and T-kun’s mother.
"Second Fun Day: Mountain Climbing Experience, August 1."
"Second Fun Day: Mountain Climbing Experience, August 1."
The second installment of Fun Day took place at Ishikawa Youth House in Uruma City, where we held a mountain climbing experience. There were three courses: Course A (1 km), Course B (2 km), and Course C (3 km). Preschoolers to second graders tackled Course A, third graders took on Course B, and fourth graders and above challenged Course C. Remarkably, all students reached the summit and achieved their goals. Some even exceeded their initial goals by successfully completing longer courses.
Every student was able to experience a sense of accomplishment, making for a fulfilling day. This mountain climbing experience required mental strength (perseverance), physical stamina, judgment, concentration, and the ability to empathize with others. I believe achieving these skills gave the children significant confidence and helped them grow immensely.
Ten parents participated in this climbing event, providing support for the children. Their presence made us staff feel much more secure, allowing us to ensure a safe and enjoyable climbing experience. Thank you very much!
"They listened carefully to the final instructions just before starting the hike. Great job!"
"First graders, are you ready? Let’s go!"
"Ms. L, the first-grade teacher, and the children. Everyone, look this way!"
"The trailhead is still ahead, but the view is so nice that we’ll stop for a commemorative photo!"
"Amidst the great outdoors, these kids are searching for something. Are there any rare creatures around?"
"Caelin, a graduate who participated as a volunteer, and Ms. Aika lead the group at the front."
"External participant I-kun (on the right) and our student J-kun quickly became friends, chatting happily as they climbed."
"Yay! Everything's good so far. What a great smile! This is H-san, an external participant."
最後尾の幼稚園の皆さん。やっと登山入口に着きました。すでに登った気持ちになっています。
"Carefully moving while holding onto the rope. It’s quite a steep slope. Everyone, take your time and watch your step!"
"It feels just like a jungle! We’re moving along the stream. We carefully assess where to place our next step to avoid slipping. It requires a lot of concentration."
"Only here does the light shine through. It’s a mystical space that appears only during this time."
"We’ve climbed 1,200 meters. Y-kun, a third grader, volunteered to take on Course C. With 800 meters left, the battle against himself begins here."
"Grab onto this tree root and climb slowly. This is serious mountain climbing!"
"We came through here, right? First graders reflect on Course A using the map. Great job, everyone!"
"We've hit a bit of a snag. The path ahead is steep. Take your time—no need to rush!"
"Former Principal Nakada also joined to support the children. Mr. Travis, who has climbed Course C multiple times, assisted the lead group. Thanks to them, everyone was able to climb with confidence."
"Using the rope, each person progresses one by one. It looks like there’s also a path from below. They advance while considering their own stamina, requiring sound judgment."
"This section can't be navigated without a rope. Caelin is waiting down below. That's impressive—such thoughtfulness."
"What a beautiful waterfall! We hold back the urge to swim and continue on."
"Fourth graders, yay! We're almost at the top!"
"Leading the group is fourth grader Y-kun. He motivates himself with each step, steadily getting closer to the goal."
"‘You can do it! Let’s go!’ Ms. Jenna encourages the students."
"Yay! We’re at the highest point of Ishikawa Peak. The breeze feels nice, and the view is amazing! The clear blue sky seems to be welcoming us. Y-kun and Rika-san are feeling energized!"
"On the return bus, the two of them were still full of energy, chatting the whole way back to school. They might have been able to climb one more time!
I remember climbing last summer, and it wasn’t too hot, so it felt pleasant. However, this time it was hotter than expected, and I worried that some students might get unwell. Thanks to the teachers and parents' proper support, no one had to drop out midway, and everyone was able to descend on their own.
I’m proud of the AASO students, parents, and staff. Great job, everyone! And thank you!
"On July 31, we welcomed Mr. Nakachi from the Animal Hospital to learn about Okinawan wildlife. He provided detailed explanations about the mimicry of butterflies and frogs, as well as the ecology of the Yanbaru Kuina, using photos and materials. Although the target grade was third grade and above, the children actively responded to Mr. Nakachi’s questions."
"NPO Animal Hospital OkinawaLecture by Secretary General, Mr. Manabu Nakachi"
"NPO Animal Hospital OkinawaLecture by Secretary General, Mr. Manabu Nakachi"
"The children stared intently at the photos of frogs mimicking their surroundings, diligently searching for the frogs. (Above)
'I got it, I got it! I can see where the frog is!' (Left)"
"Is this Yanbaru Kuina a male or a female? Does anyone know?
The answer is male. Males have larger, sturdier beaks."
"Why does the Yanbaru Kuina only inhabit the Yanbaru region?
As you can see on this map, they are not found in areas with little greenery. They can only thrive in the lush, natural environment of Yanbaru. Therefore, to protect these animals, it’s essential to preserve nature."
"The completed somen flowing station. Will the somen flow?"
"Somen flowing, Water Play, July 29."
"Somen flowing, Water Play, July 29."
"On July 29th, we held a Fun Day in the morning, featuring water play and somen flowing. Everyone had a blast getting soaked! The somen flowing trough was about 20 meters long, providing plenty of length to enjoy the experience. We borrowed the flowing station set from the Mae Hara Children's Association. Thank you!"
"Middle school students assembled the flowing station. Former Principal Nakata also came to help. Thank you!"
"I'll make sure to secure it tightly."
"I'll clean the assembled troughs using dish soap."
"I'll carefully wash it from end to end."
"The first up is the kindergarten kids. Let's dig in!"
"Next up are the first graders. The somen is taking a while to arrive!"
"It’s delicious!"
"Flowing the somen is quite a task."
"Think about the person behind you, too!"
"I captured it well."
"I think it would be better to stand on the opposite side."
"The middle school students ate last. It’s delicious!"
"They are eating quite a lot. This isn’t lunch, you know."
"Oh, there are also chikuwa!"
"It's delicious!"
"It's quite a challenge to serve somen (cold noodles) this way."
"We catch the somen in a strainer so we don't waste any."
"The person in front should also consider the person behind them."
"I caught it well."
"I think it would be better to stand on the opposite side."
"The middle school students ate last. It’s delicious!"
"From here on, it's a look at the water play that took place before the flowing somen."
"Mr. Takayasu, S-kun, and N-kun are preparing for the water play."
"We enjoyed using the entire parking lot."
"Discussing who to aim for."
"I'm going to shoot! Stop!"
"Come on, come on, bring it on!"
"It's a fantasy world."
"Ms. Zena also added to the excitement while having fun."
"I'm fine even if water splashes on my face!"
"This is also a fantasy. The smiles are the best!"
"This is how you add water. He's a kind big brother."
"Hey, I hit it!"
Fun Day
"We finished the morning session with shaved ice. It was a deluxe version with a trio of syrups: melon, strawberry, and honey lemon. It was definitely delicious, and everyone was very satisfied."
"Mr. Hirata (on the right) was introduced by former Principal Nakada as 'Daiichi Hirata, who promotes Okinawan culture to the world.'"
"On the afternoon of July 29th, we held a lecture by Daiichi Hirata during Fun Day. After being introduced by former Principal Nakada, Mr. Hirata said, 'I was really looking forward to today. I want to cherish this encounter with all of you. Today, I will introduce Okinawan music and dance. Let's enjoy it together.'"
"Taichi Hirata - Okinawan Performing Arts Class"
"Taichi Hirata - Okinawan Performing Arts Class"
"Mr. Hirata creates rhythm with a single large drum and passionately sings Dynamic Ryukyu. The children are drawn in by the rhythm and song."
"The children are learning how to project their voices. Their seriousness is evident."
"An demonstration of the Okinawan percussion instrument, sanba. 'How does the sound come out?' The children gaze intently at Mr. Hirata's fingertips."
"Mr. Hirata: 'Iyasaasa!' The children: 'Haiya!' Everyone looks like they’re having fun."
"Music Class: July 24th and 25th."
"Music Class: July 24th and 25th."
"Following last year's event, this time we invited teachers from the Okinawa Music Friends Association to teach us the joy of music. The Okinawa Music Friends Association was established to connect classical musicians with society. It aims to build a network of performers, educators, and researchers involved in classical music based in Okinawa, as well as to promote classical music throughout the prefecture. First, the leader, Mr. Taira (on the left), introduced the members."
"On the first day, there was a trumpet class by guest trumpet player Mr. Kimura from the C-BRASS Wind Orchestra. He provided a detailed explanation of the trumpet's mechanism and types."
"Students, with inflated balloons, are eager to try playing a real trumpet. 'I want to blow it soon! But it won’t inflate!'"
"How do you attach the mouthpiece? It’s finally time to give it a try!"
"Live collaboration performance by Mr. Taira on piano and Mr. Kimura on trumpet. The children were also very focused."
"Mr. Kimura prepared trumpets for the children, each with its own unique features, chosen based on the music. This heightened the children's interest and curiosity."
"On the second day, tenor singer Mr. Hibiki provided vocal training. The students were overwhelmed by his powerful voice. The theme song for this session was MONGOL800's 'Chiisana Koi no Uta.'"
"'Chiisana Koi no Uta' is a song that the children's parents often sing at karaoke, so the kids quickly learned to sing it as well."
"Songs are universal. They sang straight through to the second verse in one go."
"To conclude the vocal training, they were taught the basic posture for singing and how to use diaphragmatic breathing, with practical examples provided."
"Tea Ceremony Class: July 22nd."
"Tea Ceremony Class: July 22nd."
"On July 22nd, the special activity for the first day of summer school was a tea ceremony class. The instructor was Mr. Kuwae, a parent at our school, who explained the history and origins of tea ceremony in detail. There was also a demonstration by the tea ceremony staff, and the children watched with keen interest. It was a valuable time for the children to experience Japan's traditional culture, feeling the spirit of hospitality and beautiful principles."
"H-kun and E-san, who helped with the tea ceremony class."
"The tea ceremony was also loved by the warlords Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu."
"Everyone is listening attentively."
"We enjoy traditional sweets before drinking tea."
"Demonstration by the tea ceremony staff."
"It might be a little too bitter for preschoolers."
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