“Ever wonder how Japanese elementary schools shape young minds?” I ask gesturing towards Miyama Elementary School. This isn’t just a place of learning. It’s a cornerstone of community.
Miyama Elementary School is one of many schools in Chiba Prefecture. Education is highly valued in Japan. Public education was established in the late 1800s. It dramatically increased literacy. Today about 99 percent of Japanese people can read and write.
The Japanese education system shares similarities with Western systems. Uniforms and exams are common. Yet Japanese schools have unique qualities. They focus on creating a safe and efficient society.
One surprise might be that Miyama Elementary School has no janitors. Students handle the cleaning. They clean every part of their school. Even the toilets. Teachers and the principal join in. There is a cleaning time called “souji” daily. This teaches responsibility. It also teaches respect.
Japanese schools instill values. They teach children how to live in society. Schools emphasize respect for others. Healthy habits are also taught. Even small things like students cleaning are significant.
Miyama Elementary School emphasizes harmony. Japan values a harmonious society. Everyone should perform at the same level. Individualism is not as rewarded. There’s a saying. “Hammer the nail that sticks out”.
Here students all have similar schoolbags. These bags often feature the school emblem. Reflective stripes ensure safety. Many students walk or bike home late. Looking similar is important. Strict rules prevent dyed hair and piercings.
Many students are part of sports clubs. Activities occur before and after class. Being in a sports club requires hard work. Students rarely rest. They show commitment. Despite the hard work clubs are popular.
Interestingly students sometimes sleep in class. Teachers understand their tiredness. Assignments during holidays add to the workload. Many also take extra classes.
Dropping out of high school is rare in Japan. The rate is very low. Japanese schools are often traditional. Students mainly use pen and paper. High tech equipment isn’t always up to date. Classrooms can be too hot or too cold. Schools save money. They use electric fans and kerosene heaters.
Japanese teaching materials remain traditional. Textbooks are a main focus. Japan promotes equality in education. The government spends relatively little. Yet Japanese teachers work hard. They focus on problem solving not rote learning. Teachers often collaborate.
Japanese schools take the Constitution seriously. Teachers don’t send students out of the classroom. Everyone eats the same meal. Students serve the food wearing gowns. There are rules about what students can eat. They are trained to eat healthily.
Classrooms are for more than learning. Students eat lunch there with their teacher. They arrange desks to face each other. Students always stay with classmates. But they easily mingle with others.
Students cannot fail a grade. However test scores matter for entrance exams. Japan has a unique and efficient education system. Students are disciplined. The society respects others. The future looks bright.
Miyama Elementary School embodies these principles. It prepares students for life. It teaches them respect. It creates a strong community. It is an essential part of Chiba. Its focus on community and responsibility makes Miyama Elementary School special.