Days like these are always bittersweet for me. I am so proud of my students. They have worked hard for years to get where they are, and I am excited for their future. But of course, I will miss seeing their smiling faces at school as well. Graduation season is here again. This year, 362 students are ready to take the next step in life, and have become Okisho alumni. Here's the rundown of a typical graduation ceremony:
First, you have the grand entrance of the graduates, then an official "opening" speech. Then the kids all get their diplomas. The principal hands it to them as they bow before him.
As this is happening, each homeroom teacher takes a turn at the microphone, and calls each of his/her students up to the stage. It's a long process, but gives a chance to really acknowledge each student for his/her accomplishments.
Then there's an awards ceremony, which is followed by a moving speech by one of the graduates. This year it was none other than Narumi Genka, who was definitely worthy of representing the class of '09. Her speech was filled with emotion, and left the audience teary-eyed.
Then the students throw up their blazers in triumph (I'll post video soon), and then they leave the gymnasium in full glory. There's a "flower road" made outside that the students walk along, receiving flowers, gifts, and pats on the head as they meet family, friends, and teachers.
There are certain aspects of Japanese schools that almost make me wish I had been born and raised in this country. Graduation is one of them.
First, you have the grand entrance of the graduates, then an official "opening" speech. Then the kids all get their diplomas. The principal hands it to them as they bow before him.
As this is happening, each homeroom teacher takes a turn at the microphone, and calls each of his/her students up to the stage. It's a long process, but gives a chance to really acknowledge each student for his/her accomplishments.
Then there's an awards ceremony, which is followed by a moving speech by one of the graduates. This year it was none other than Narumi Genka, who was definitely worthy of representing the class of '09. Her speech was filled with emotion, and left the audience teary-eyed.
Then the students throw up their blazers in triumph (I'll post video soon), and then they leave the gymnasium in full glory. There's a "flower road" made outside that the students walk along, receiving flowers, gifts, and pats on the head as they meet family, friends, and teachers.
There are certain aspects of Japanese schools that almost make me wish I had been born and raised in this country. Graduation is one of them.
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