千葉市立磯辺第三小学校

In 2017, Chiba City Sodegaura Third Elementary School celebrated its 37th anniversary. This isn’t just a school. It’s a vital part of the community, deeply connected with the local area. It’s so intertwined with the neighborhood that a large group of local volunteers, known as the “Supporters of the Third Elementary School,” actively participate in the children’s education. Principal Katsuyuki Shinkai, who joined Chiba City Sodegaura Third Elementary School that year, described the students as energetic and full of life. He was loved by both the students and the community. Teacher Noriko Sawaki, a key liaison between the school and the community, enjoys immense trust from the parents. Chiba City Sodegaura Third Elementary School was founded in April 1981 as the 101st elementary school in Chiba City. Due to recent mansion construction in the surrounding area, the number of children has been increasing. Currently, the school has 372 students and 14 classes, including special needs classes. The school’s educational goal is to “raise children who love themselves, their friends, and their community.” They work towards fostering a sense of self-worth in the children. This helps them appreciate their friends and community. They strive to create an environment where children can develop strong bonds with their peers and actively participate in local life. The “Supporters of the Third Elementary School” group is part of Chiba City’s “School Support Community Headquarters” project. It aims to enhance school education and promote community involvement. Through parent and local volunteer support, the project facilitates various activities like lesson assistance and traditional games instruction. It also organizes town exploration events and reading sessions. Approximately 160 volunteers have registered for the project. Principal Shinkai emphasized the enthusiastic collaboration between the school and the community. This spirit of partnership contributes significantly to the school’s success. Teacher Sawaki mentioned a class where fifth-grade students learn to use sewing machines. Many children encounter sewing machines for the first time. They sometimes struggle initially with threading the needles or operating the machines. The volunteers offer valuable guidance and support during these lessons. The “Supporters of the Third Elementary School” play a crucial role in assisting these learning experiences. The school’s annual cultural festival, the “Kamome Festival,” provides a platform for students to showcase their learning through various presentations. The festival welcomes parents and community members to observe the students’ work. The children enthusiastically prepare for these presentations, eager to share their achievements. Principal Shinkai believes that the children’s singing voices are exceptional. He recalled being deeply moved when he first heard them sing upon joining the school. Teacher Sawaki shared that attendees at last year’s graduation ceremony were deeply impressed by the students’ singing. She believes the children’s dedication and enthusiasm resonate deeply with the audience. Chiba City Sodegaura Third Elementary School is located in a safe and peaceful residential area. The school collaborates closely with local residents, actively engaging in safety patrols and other community activities. Numerous parks in the area provide spaces for families to interact and enjoy outdoor activities. The lively atmosphere creates a supportive and nurturing environment for children. The presence of nearby shopping centers like Perinia, Yaoko, and Aeon Style further enhances the convenience of the area. Teacher Sawaki noted that families often participate in school events together, including fathers, grandparents, and siblings. This strong sense of community involvement and family engagement creates a warm and supportive atmosphere for raising children. The coastal location adds to the charm of this vibrant neighborhood, offering a unique and enriching environment for families.