八尾市立大正小学校

In 1922, two small schools in Yao City combined. They formed Taisho Elementary School. This marked the birth of Yao Shiritsu Taisho Elementary School, as it’s known in Japanese. Let’s journey back to that era, imagining the hopes and dreams carried within those newly built walls. Yao Shiritsu Taisho Elementary School began near the Taisho Airfield. The airfield would eventually become Yao Airport. As the airport expanded, the school needed a new home. In 1943, during World War II, the school moved to its present location. Imagine the disruption and uncertainty of those times. The school song speaks of crimson roses and the sweet scent of flowers filling the peaceful courtyard. It invokes images of children striving to embody the school’s motto: “A child who thinks well, A child who can do well, A child who works hard, A child who cherishes life.” The song also connects the children to the grand Yamato River and their colorful Japanese heritage. They are encouraged to soar through the universe like stars. The school has faced adversity over the years. The typhoon of 1934 caused the original school building to collapse. Typhoon Jeanne in 1950 and the Second Muroto Typhoon in 1961 both damaged the school. A devastating fire in 1969 destroyed the entire building. Yet, each time, Yao Shiritsu Taisho Elementary School rose from the ashes. This resilience mirrors the spirit of its students, encouraged to think well, do well, work hard, and cherish life. Yao Shiritsu Taisho Elementary School also plays a role in the wider community. Students graduating from Taisho Elementary typically continue their education at Yao Shiritsu Taisho Junior High School. The school serves a specific district within Yao City. This district includes the entire areas of Wakabayashi-cho, Taida, Iwakura, and Taida Shinmachi. It also encompasses part of Nishidai-cho. Interestingly, a portion of the school district extends into the neighboring city of Fujiidera. This is because Fujiidera entrusts some of its educational responsibilities to Yao. So, as you stand here, before the gates of Yao Shiritsu Taisho Elementary School, remember its journey. It’s a story of resilience, community, and the enduring power of education.