Established in 1883 Sumida Ward’s Tateoka Elementary School stands proudly. Its history stretches back to 1873. Then it was known as the Koyo Gakko. This school was founded within the walls of a temple. The school’s name changed several times. It became Tateoka Public Elementary School in 1883. Later in 1888 it was renamed Tateoka Elementary School. In 1902 a higher grade was added. It was then called Tateoka Higher Elementary School.
The school experienced significant growth and changes. New buildings were constructed in 1926. Two more buildings and three new classrooms were added. A commercial and industrial supplementary school was established. A youth training center also opened in 1926. The increasing student population led to the opening of a branch school. Tateoka Second Elementary School opened in 1927. In 1931 it was renamed Tateoka Second Elementary School.
Sumida Ward’s incorporation into Tokyo in 1932 changed the school’s name again. It became Tokyo Prefecture Tokyo City Tateoka Elementary School. In 1941 the school became a national school. It was renamed Tokyo City Sumida Ward Tateoka National School. The war years brought hardship. In 1944 children evacuated to the Gifu Prefecture. Reconstruction efforts followed after the war ended. In 1947 the school was renamed again. This time to Sumida Ward Tateoka Elementary School. A middle school was established on the school grounds in 1947. This was Sumida First Junior High School.
Many building projects followed over the decades. A library was added in 1953. A 25-meter pool was completed in 1961. A small gymnasium was finished in 1967. Additional buildings and renovations continued through the years. A new school building replaced the old one in 2009. The original school building was closed in March of 2009. The new building opened on April 1st 2009. Sumida Ward’s Tateoka Elementary School stands as a testament. It is a testament to the dedication to education. It continues to serve its community. The school’s legacy continues to thrive. Its story is woven into the fabric of the neighborhood. It has played a significant part in the lives of countless children.