This week brought with it a flurry of activity including a visit to Fujimi Elementary School where the children raise non-native butterflies, the Murasaki, in an on-site butterfly house. The school was nestled among towering trees that settled the wind and provided shade for the classrooms. The classes were calm and interested in their lessons. The school's friendly vice principal spent a good deal of time discussing current issues related to Japanese education. Student mobility, technology, funding...I could have been at a faculty meeting at my home school. photo 1

On Independence Day, I taught an English class for Fujinomiya Advancement of International Relations (FAIR) on Idaho and the American West. Oddly enough, I was asked for potato recipes when the class was over! photo 2

A class project I did with the 5th and 6th graders. photo 3

As I mentioned at the Sendai Regional Conference, the big highlight of late has been accompanying 200 fifth graders on their partial ascent of Mt. Fuji. Not only was the scenery superb, but I was able to get more familiar with the kids. They know much more English than they initially let on and are exceedlingly patient. I learned a new phrase as a result of their compassionate and frequent queries, "Dijobu desu ka?".
photos 4 and 5

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Hi Karen,
Subarashii!
I loved your description of red-capped students climbing Fuji-san, but the photo is wonderful!
Arigato
- Dave

Karen, I love the writing and the photos. I can imagine how great it muct be to hike Fuji-san with a group of kids. I am sure you were as excited as thry were. Jane

That picture of the line of kids climbing the mountain is awesome. That must have been such an experience to share with the kids.

Sherry