市立長岡第九小学校

Established in 1979, Nagaokakyo Municipal Nagaoka Ninth Elementary School, often called “Naga-Ku” or simply “Ku,” stands before you. Imagine children racing across this very playground, their laughter echoing through the years. Naga-Ku wasn’t always here. It was established as the ninth elementary school in the city, separating from Nagaokakyo Municipal Kamiike Elementary School. The school is situated in the eastern part of Nagaokakyo city, an area dotted with numerous factories. This location, rich in history and nature, is close to the historic Katsuragaoka Castle, the ancient burial mounds of Josan-zan, and the serene Koizumi River. Naga-Ku isn’t just a school. It’s a testament to the community’s commitment to education. In 2013, the Nagaokakyo City Board of Education designated Naga-Ku as a center for research and promotion in mathematics. Later, in 2016, the Kyoto Prefectural Board of Education recognized it as an “Oasis School”. An interesting detail about Naga-Ku is the school bell. It is a “nylon bell” manufactured by Nairon. These bells are used in parts of Kyoto, Osaka, and Shiga prefectures. Over the years, Naga-Ku has seen its student population fluctuate. In 1983, enrollment peaked at 978 students. By 2014, this number had dropped to 292, but has since rebounded to over 400. As you stand here, picture the generations of students who have walked these halls. They’ve learned, grown, and moved on to shape the future, carrying with them the spirit of Naga-Ku. The school’s commitment to fostering a love for learning continues to resonate, shaping young minds for years to come.