町立熊野東中学校

Kumano-higashi Junior High School. A place of learning. A hub of community. Here at Kumano-higashi Junior High, the spirit of “Happy Life in Kumano” is woven into the very fabric of the school. Kumano-higashi Junior High isn’t just a school. It’s a testament to the enduring bond between education and community. This connection is deeply rooted in the school’s philosophy. The goal is to nurture students who are not only academically proficient but also deeply connected to their town. The school motto is “A school trusted, loved, and beautiful”. Kumano-higashi Junior High School became a UNESCO school in 2013. It’s a part of a global network of schools committed to promoting peace, sustainable development, and intercultural understanding. The students here engage in a unique program. It is called the “Kumano Happy Life” educational program. It aims to instill a love and pride for their hometown of Kumano. One example of this program is the first-year students’ exploration of Kumano’s traditional brush-making industry. They visited the Fude-no-Sato Museum. There, they learned about the history of brush making and the local artisan who pioneered the craft. Students also investigated local businesses within Kumano. They conducted research on local products and even tried their hand at selling them in Osaka during a school trip. This experience gave them a direct understanding of the town’s economy. The students learned about disaster prevention and mitigation. They identified hazardous locations around Kumano and created a disaster prevention map. They even received first-aid training from local firefighters. The second-year students gained first-hand experience through workplace internships at various businesses in Kumano. This gave them insight into the working world. They also developed an appreciation for those who contribute to the town’s economy. Third-year students focused on career exploration and furthered their understanding of local industries. They also organized and ran the “Akindo Experience.” During the annual brush festival, they sold local products to visitors, experiencing the direct connection between local businesses and Kumano’s cultural heritage. Kumano-higashi Junior High School also hosted lecture series throughout the year. These lectures featured inspiring figures. An Olympic athlete and a prominent video game developer from Hiroshima shared their life stories and career paths with the students. Kumano-higashi Junior High school is dedicated to fostering well-rounded individuals. The school encourages a deep connection with their community and a commitment to making a positive impact.