Established in 1900, the Osaka City Rengaku Special Support School stands before you. It has a rich history, evolving from a private institution to a vital part of Osaka’s public education system. This school, formerly known as Osaka City School for the Deaf and Mute, has been dedicated to providing education for children with hearing and visual impairments for over a century. Five generations later, the school continues its mission.
Originally founded by Gota Goshiro Ishii, a prominent businessman, the school began as the Osaka Blind and Deaf School. He hired Koga Tadashi, the founder of Kyoto Blind and Deaf School, as the first principal. This marked the beginning of an educational journey that spanned numerous locations and name changes.
The school’s journey began in Higashi Ward, then moved to Minami Ward just two months later. In 1907, the city of Osaka took over its administration, renaming it Osaka City Blind and Deaf School. The school eventually split into two separate entities. In 1923, it became the Osaka City School for the Deaf and Mute, and a separate school for the blind was established.
The school continued to evolve, relocating to various sites throughout Osaka to accommodate the growing student population. The year 1945 brought devastating loss during the Osaka air raid, destroying the school building in Tennoji Ward. Despite this setback, the school persevered, relocating to temporary facilities before settling at its current location in Higashi Ward.
Over the years, the school has undergone several name changes. In 2009, it became Osaka City Rengaku Special Support School. Then, in 2016, administration shifted to Osaka Prefecture, leading to its current name, Osaka Prefectural Chuo Rengaku Special Support School. The Osaka City Rengaku Special Support School is an important part of Osaka’s commitment to inclusive education. Its enduring legacy speaks volumes about its dedication to empowering students with visual and hearing impairments. The school provides them with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.