With the end of the second term, that went for 82 days, the winter vacation will finally begin tomorrow.
During the second term, there were many experiential learning opportunities and events, including science workshops, programming classes, safety and crime-prevention lessons, lectures on health, Yume Festival, the Furusato Creation Studies Summit, the autumn excursion, and school trips. Students also had chances to interact with students from other junior high schools and to connect with local community members through activities such as the Imoni (taro soup) gathering and town clean-up activities, leading to many meaningful encounters.
Message from the GM
“This second term was filled with many experiences. What designers, parents, and community members are most happy about is seeing children shine as they pursued what they love.
Have you set goals or made plans for winter vacation? The New Year—2026—is coming. Please talk with your family about what kind of year you want it to be and decide on your goals together. What can you do to take care of yourself? One way is to express gratitude to value yourself. To weave our future together, what should we do next? There are many things people want to do in life. Important things take time and energy. Think about a goal—something you want to challenge yourself with this year—and take the first step.”
Reflection on the Second Term and Winter Vacation Goals
(Excerpts from student representatives’ presentations)
“There are two things I worked hard on in the second term. One was making pizza together in life skills class. We also made sweet potatoes. The second was comparing cars in Japanese class. During winter vacation, I want to work hard on my picture diary because I want to improve my writing.”
“What left the strongest impression on me was the overnight school trip. By eating meals together and staying overnight with friends whom I usually only see at school, we were able to deepen our friendships. During the evening campfire, we worked together as fifth grade students to plan activities. I was in charge of a message-passing game, and I think I was able to help everyone have fun.
On the other hand, there were times when I struggled in friendships—when I couldn’t express my thoughts well or didn’t understand how others were feeling. Each time, I reflected and sought advice from people around me, which I believe helped me grow.
During the upcoming winter vacation, I want to work on my homework in a planned way so I can start the new term feeling refreshed. Since it’s a cold season, I will take care of my health by washing my hands, gargling, and keeping regular sleep habits. As it is a precious winter break, I want to cherish time with my family and make it fulfilling.”
Awards for art and calligraphy were presented. There were many commendations during the second term. Congratulations to everyone—we look forward to your continued success!
After the closing ceremony and awards, students received guidance on how to spend winter vacation safely:
- Points to be careful about when using games and chats
- How to use money responsibly
- Traffic safety
Let’s enjoy a safe and healthy winter vacation and return in good spirits for the third term!
After cleaning and tidying up during the beautification activity, students gathered for their homeroom meetings, and finally it was time to say goodbye. Exchanging words such as “Thank you for the year” and “Happy New Year,” everyone headed home.
Please make many wonderful memories during the approximately two-week winter vacation.
Thank you very much for another great year.
