After 37 days of summer vacation, the children returned for the start of the second semester. From the morning, they were enjoying time in the gym, playing table tennis, and happily reuniting with their friends. After the morning assembly, everyone gathered at the Book Plaza.
GM’s Message (Excerpt)
“During summer vacation, there was a teacher who became number one in Japan. It wasn’t just luck—they must have practiced very hard. This teacher, like all of you, was pursuing something they loved. In the second semester, I hope each of you will continue to work on the things you love. In September, we will have the Yume Festival. Share with your family the things you love and the things you are curious about. It’s up to you to make Yume no Mori a fun place. Take care of yourself, and let’s all make this second semester enjoyable together!”
Two student representatives gave speeches on the theme “Reflecting on Summer Vacation and Goals for the Second Semester.” Here are some excerpts from their presentations.
“My summer vacation was full of fun! My best memory was the Little Bear Camp. The wind in the mountains of Yamanashi felt so refreshing, and swinging in the breeze felt like flying in a different sky. One thing I want to improve is my homework—I didn’t follow my plan and ended up finishing it all at the last minute. Next summer, I want to work on a little bit every day. My goal for the second semester is to write kanji neatly.”
“My favorite memory from summer vacation was going to Little Bear Camp with everyone at Yumenomori. Over the 3 days, we went fishing and had a barbecue. The most fun part was making curry together. I usually don’t cook much, so using a knife and fire made me a little nervous. But cooking while chatting with my friends was a first for me, and I really enjoyed it. The curry turned out delicious, which made me very happy. For my studies, I managed my summer homework carefully and finished it two days before the end of the break. In the second semester, I want to continue studying in a planned and organized way.”
After the opening ceremony, we sang the “Yumenomori School Song” and held an awards ceremony.
The children who showed great progress in calligraphy during the first semester and those whose work was selected for the Tanabata Exhibition received certificates of achievement.
During summer vacation, a teacher became number one in Japan! As a member of the Fukushima Prefecture women’s team, she participated in the National Table Tennis Championship for School Staff held in Mie Prefecture and proudly won first place in the women’s team category.
“I started playing table tennis in the first grade of elementary school and have continued ever since. There were many times it was tough and I wanted to quit, but I’m glad I kept going without giving up.”
Her dedication to pursuing what she loves was truly inspiring.
After the awards ceremony at the Book Plaza, students returned to their respective grades for homeroom activities and participated in cleaning activities before going home.
Regular classes will begin as usual from tomorrow. The hot days continue, but let’s get our bodies back into the rhythm of school life.
