市立池尻小学校

Clutching your bento boxes, imagine yourselves as students at Itami Shiritsu Ikejiri Elementary School. The year is 1977. The school is brand new, having just opened its doors in the spring. Excitement buzzes in the air, a mix of new beginnings and the scent of freshly cut grass from the spacious school grounds. Itami Shiritsu Ikejiri Elementary School, nestled in Itami City, quickly became a cornerstone of the community. Now, fast forward to today. Itami Shiritsu Ikejiri Elementary School isn’t just a place for academics. It’s a vibrant hub where students connect with nature and their community. The school’s expansive field, known as the Uriwari Atoli Park, provides a unique learning environment. Here, students from first grade cultivate a love for nature by growing morning glories and sweet potatoes. They learn about the delicate balance of life through hands-on experiences. Second graders nurture a variety of vegetables, comparing their growth and unique characteristics. This fosters an appreciation for biodiversity. Third graders take on the responsibility of raising silkworms. This teaches them about the interconnectedness of life and the food chain. They also explore the world of insects and their preferred plants, like mulberry leaves for silkworms, ageratum leaves for swallowtail butterflies, and Japanese honeysuckle leaves for moths. Fourth graders investigate the health of the local Yamato River. They analyze water quality and observe the aquatic life, comparing their findings with historical data to understand environmental changes. Fifth graders embark on a journey of rice cultivation in the school’s paddy fields. They learn about traditional farming practices and explore the importance of sustainable agriculture. They even contribute to modifying the school’s biotope to support a thriving aquatic ecosystem. Sixth graders tackle real-world problems through project-based learning. They focus on achieving Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action) by addressing local forest issues and educating the community about climate change. The school’s Nature Club further extends these efforts. Students raise goats, cultivate vegetables, and even organize vegetable sales for the local community. Itami Shiritsu Ikejiri Elementary School stands as a testament to the power of experiential learning. It’s a place where nature isn’t just a subject in a textbook but a living classroom.