“What do you call a school that survives a typhoon?” I will tell you in a minute. Right now we are standing in front of Osaka Municipal Ikue Elementary School. This school has a rich history. It reflects the resilience of Osaka and its people.
Osaka Municipal Ikue Elementary School first opened its doors in 1942. At that time it was named Osaka Ikue National School. It was born from a separation of Osaka Shirokita National School.
During World War II, the school faced significant challenges. As the Pacific War worsened in 1944, elementary school children in major cities, including Osaka, were evacuated. This was a measure to protect them from air raids. Children who could not evacuate with relatives were grouped by school. They were then sent to rural areas.
Ikue National School initially sent children to Kadoma Village. Kadoma Village is now part of Moriguchi City. They stayed in temples. However, due to intensifying air raids, Kadoma Village became too dangerous. The students were evacuated again to remote villages in Shimane Prefecture. These villages were Onoe, Nakano and Ihara. All are now part of Oonan Town.
After the war, in 1947, the school system was reformed. Osaka Ikue National School was renamed Osaka Municipal Ikue Elementary School.
But the challenges did not end with the war. In September 1950, the Jane Typhoon caused major damage to the school buildings. The community persevered. The school was rebuilt.
In September 1964, Osaka Municipal Ikue Elementary School received a special honor. It was recognized as a “Good School in Japan.” This shows the dedication of the teachers, students, and community.
In 1970, a master plan was created. It was for the improvement of the school facilities. This commitment to improvement ensures a better learning environment for future generations.
So what do you call a school that survives a typhoon? A very cool school. Osaka Municipal Ikue Elementary School stands as a testament to the strength of the community. Its history is a story of survival and dedication to education.