....Osaka Montessori schools

Today we went to four different schools, all affiliated with the Osaka University. The schools were quite impressive. Students have to be tested to get in or be part of a lottery involving above average students. First we went to a Pre-k/kindergarten school, students were involved in a variety of experiential learning activities--all having so much fun. One amazing activity we witnessed was the student unicycling at the age of 4-5 years old. They had lots of gardens with potatoes, tomatoes, squash, green peppers, and flowers. They had a goat, rooster, rabbits, and insects that they were responsible for daily. Students put on gloves and a mask and brushed the goat as well as picked up the rabbit. They had to clean out their stalls and we all know what that means--PUUUUEEEEYYY!

Next we went to the elementary school, grades 1-6. Students were so excited as we entered their classrooms. Many were eager to speak English, but could usually only say an introduction. You definitely feel like a movie star.

The Junior High (grades 7-8) and Senior High (grades 9-12) schools were connected. They were also giggling and screaming as we walked up to the school. It makes you feel very important and welcome when so many students are so thrilled for you to be there. We saw students studying English, mathematics, music, art, home ec, Japanese, PE, and history.

All of the schools have about 40 students to a classroom, and it was quite impressive to see how attentive and engaged the students were in their lessons. Believe it or not, being back in school was a refreshing part of the trip. I am so excited about spending the next 3 days at one school and really getting to know the students.