品川区立日野学園

Nestled in the vibrant Higashigotanda district of Shinagawa, Tokyo, stands the Shinagawa Municipal Hino Gakuen. It’s a unique institution, a beacon of innovative education in Japan. Can you imagine a single school housing both elementary and junior high students? Shinagawa Municipal Hino Gakuen makes it a reality. This school, established on April 1, 2006, was a pioneering effort. It was the first public school in all of Japan to combine elementary and junior high education under one roof. Shinagawa Municipal Hino Gakuen is not just a school; it’s a story of educational evolution. Originally, it began as separate elementary and junior high schools. These schools were the Second Hinogakuen Elementary School and Hinogakuen Junior High School. In 2006, they were merged and the campus was rebuilt. The new institution adopted the name Shinagawa Municipal Elementary and Junior High School Hinogakuen. This reflected the new, integrated approach. In 2016, with a change in the education laws, the school officially transitioned to become Shinagawa Municipal Hino Gakuen, a compulsory education school. The school’s motto, “tsukareta to iu kotoba wa,” meaning roughly “words like ‘I’m tired’ are,” speaks to a deeper philosophy. It encourages students to push beyond perceived limitations, fostering resilience and a “never give up” attitude. The full motto elaborates on this idea, promoting sincerity, diligence, and a focus on personal growth. The school’s symbol, the star, further reinforces this message, inspiring students to reach for their own individual brilliance. A heartwarming tradition at Shinagawa Municipal Hino Gakuen is the “B&S” activity. Junior high students mentor first-grade elementary students. This fosters a strong sense of community and helps younger students acclimate to the school environment. Another unique aspect of Shinagawa Municipal Hino Gakuen is the use of colored ribbons (nekutai). The colors vary depending on the student’s year. From fifth grade onwards, students wear these ribbons, with red for years five through seven and blue for years eight and nine. This creates a visual representation of progress and belonging within the school community. The Shinagawa Municipal Hino Gakuen stands as a testament to Japan’s ongoing efforts to adapt and improve its education system. It is a place where tradition and innovation intertwine.