“Why is that school called ‘International’?” you might wonder. Let’s discover Matsudo International High School. This school isn’t just any high school. It focuses on international culture.
Matsudo International High School started as Matsudo Higashi High School in 1973. In 1994, something special happened. The school added an International Culture Department. That is when it became Matsudo International High School.
What makes Matsudo International High School unique? It offers both a Regular and an International Course. First-year students in both courses have English classes every day. The Regular Course provides more English classes compared to other schools. International Course students in their second and third years can learn a second language. They can choose Chinese, French, or Korean.
Esperanza is a popular building here. Students often eat lunch there. There are two buildings for students and teachers. Koshikan is for physical education and club activities. You will find a large gym and a small gym here. The school maintains cleanliness. A field and tennis court are also available.
The faculty is diverse. Four Assistant Language Teachers teach English alongside experienced teachers. There are also French, Chinese, and Korean teachers. Some teachers specialize in Japanese culture. Others focus on cross-cultural understanding and presentation skills. Still others teach English conversation. Of course, there are also teachers for math, biology, and other core subjects.
Second-year students usually take a school trip to Taiwan. Most schools go to Okinawa but not Matsudo International High School. Students visit a Taiwanese school. They communicate with local students to learn about Taiwanese culture.
School days here follow a schedule. Homeroom starts at 8:35 AM. Classes are usually 50 minutes long. Lunchtime begins at 12:35 PM and ends at 1:20 PM. After school ends at 4:10 PM on Mondays and Wednesdays. On other weekdays, it ends earlier at 3:10 PM. Matsudo International High School hosts many events. The School Festival and Sports Festival are popular. They also have a Halloween Party and a Ball Game Festival.
Getting to Matsudo International High School is easy. You can walk from Shin-Yahashira Station. It takes about 30 minutes. By bicycle, it is only 15 minutes. The bus takes 10 minutes plus another 10-minute walk. From Matsuhidai Station, walking takes 25 minutes. Cycling is only 10 minutes. Many students cycle from Shin-Yahashira Station.
Matsudo International High School prepares students for a global future. It emphasizes language skills and cultural understanding. It is more than just a school. It is a bridge to the world.