Hello, everyone!
We had the opportunity to visit Agatagaoka High School for a special collaboration. To add more excitement to our visit, everybody agreed on one rule — an “English-Only Policy.” The Rainforest students learned a lot and had so much fun participating in various engaging activities, such as observing English and Geography classes, making name tags, reading English books, and drawing. Before eating lunch, they even helped clean up the classrooms, showing their thoughtfulness and cooperation. Then, they enjoyed lunch with the high school students. Their hearts were full of joy as they received a special present from them! To show our appreciation for their very warm welcome, our class said, “Thank you” and “We love you,” and presented them with a handmade bouquet of flowers. It was a wonderful day filled with learning, friendship, and fun memories that our students will treasure for a long time!
We had a joyful birthday celebration altogether! The kids sang happy songs for the birthday student and played a fun game, laughing and cheering all the way. Everyone enjoyed this special moment, making it a really happy and memorable day!
Right after our birthday celebration, we had an unannounced earthquake drill! We wanted to see how the students would react when they heard the alarm. The children stayed calm, followed instructions carefully, and practiced moving safely to their designated spots. It was a great way for everyone to learn and be prepared while staying confident and safe.
We have started practicing for our graduation ceremony, and the excitement in the classroom is truly wonderful! Everybody is determined and very passionate about what they are doing, from singing the songs beautifully to preparing their bell performance. They are also carefully practicing how to walk on stage and receive their certificates with confidence and pride. It is amazing to see the students working together, supporting one another, and putting so much effort into making this special day unforgettable.
HINAMATSURI CRAFT
March 3rd is Hinamatsuri, also known as Girls’ Day. In music lessons, the children have been singing “Ureshii Hinamatsuri,” so the Rainforest students already knew a lot about the people displayed in the hina doll decorations.
They also watched a story about Hinamatsuri and learned that this special day celebrates the healthy growth and happiness of girls. In addition, they discovered the meanings behind the ingredients in chirashi sushi traditionally eaten on March 3rd, as well as the significance of the different colors of hina-arare.
As their fine motor skills have developed so much, the Rainforest children used a variety of materials—clay, paint, scissors, markers, and origami paper—to create their own hina dolls. Using the same techniques they practiced when making paper snowflakes, they carefully cut out peach blossoms. They painted and drew adorable faces for their dolls, thoughtfully choosing which tools they needed for each step of the process.
Each doll turned out unique and charming, and it looks like we are ready to welcome a wonderful Hinamatsuri celebration!
Have an awesome weekend, everyone!
