Apparently my last roll of pictures somehow won't load. I will attach some pictures from last week instead.

Last evening I was treated to a wonderful party. The faculty reserved a lovely room and we feasted on fresh sushi and great cheeses from Hokkaido and lots of beer and sake. As we relaxed, the conversation turned to matters educational and we began to trade ideas, methods and all things educational. I wish there had been some sort of forum these four weeks to do the same...maybe not with beer and sake but in a manner that allows teachers to exchange and question.

Anyway, I was surprised, to the point of tears, to receive a lovely carved crane. And a large cherry blossom card, with a special handwritten note on each petal from everyone, including the janitors. Heartfelt thoughts were shared verbally also. I was very touched.
I tried not to weep but the sincereity of their words were profound.

Later, several of us visited a beautiful Art Deco bar at the top of some building, and as the mist drifted in and the fog horns sounded and the city's lights twinkled, I wanted to capture the moment forever. We talked and talked, about education of course, for hours.

Kushiro Kashawagi faculty and staff are energetic, sensitive, caring and eager teachers. I am honored to have been included in their fold.

(And, yes, I am a wee bit tired today.

Pictures include the teachers' union sign, their extensive gardens, and
paper sushi for a children's store.

Cynthia

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Cynthia, what a great and meaningful experience. It sounds like you have made a real connection during your time there. Congratulations! Jim, Cheyenne East HS

Thanks, Jim. We have bonded! It is a wonderful thing. We will be trying to forge some sort of extended teacher exchange in the years following MTP, if I can wrangle some money from Nissan and Bridgestone and other large firms like Dell in our community. This school is very progressive and eager to learn and try new things.
Cynthia

What a lovely parting! I also wish I had had more chances to actually sit down with staff and discuss educational matters. They had opportunities to question me but not vice versa.

Have a safe trip back to Tokyo.

Did you try the translation method I told you about for the Japanese posts?

Sherry

Well Jim, I know you really put your heart and soul into this experience. I was impressed with you taking Japanese lessons outside the MTP and responding to just about every posting on xoops...on top of your busy schedule. I'm glad that the people you've been working with took the time to honor your efforts. Best, Jim

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