Fostering Friendships Across Cultures: Kinser Elementary Visits Ueta Elementary
Ms. Tibbs’ fifth grade students from Kinser Elementary School recently had an unforgettable cultural exchange at Ueta Elementary School in Tomigusuku, Okinawa. The day was packed with activities that bridged cultural differences and built lasting connections between students.
“Everyone is so welcoming and nice when they don’t even know us yet,” said fifth grade student Jasmine upon entering Ueta Elementary.
Kinser students eagerly toured the school to observe and learn about daily life in a Japanese elementary setting. The visit highlighted the contrasts and similarities between the two educational systems, sparking curiosity and appreciation.
The day included a friendly soft volleyball tournament, where both schools' students worked together in teams. The shared laughter and cheers created bonds that extended beyond the court.
"I was scared at first, but slowly gained confidence,” fifth grade student Brayden said of the experience. “I even got the MVP award!"
During lunch, Kinser students had the unique opportunity to share meals with their Japanese counterparts. This time was not just about eating, but also about understanding and participating in Japanese customs.
"At Ueta Elementary School, I had fun and made new friends," said Gavin, capturing the spirit of the day.
After lunch, our students joined their new friends in a shared responsibility: cleaning the school. This routine task became an eye-opening experience, showcasing how Japanese students incorporate teamwork and community into their daily lives.
"Seeing the daily life of the Japanese students was both fun and educational,” said Emma, another fifth grader, reflecting on the experience.
From these interactions, our students not only gained a deeper understanding of Japanese culture but also learned the value of collaboration and adaptability.
The day ended on a heartfelt note, with students exchanging small tokens of friendship. Saying goodbye proved challenging for many, as they had formed meaningful connections in just a few hours.
Kinser Elementary extends its gratitude to Shimojo-Sensai for organizing this incredible visit, the students and faculty of Ueta Elementary School for their warm welcome and hospitality, and to Mrs. Fitch, Mr. Dominguez, Ms. Smith, and Mrs. Iden for being great chaperones. This cultural exchange was a testament to the power of shared experiences in fostering understanding and goodwill. Our students returned to Kinser with widened perspectives, new friends, and
memories that will last a lifetime.
This field trip exemplifies Kinser Elementary’s commitment to enriching its students’ education through meaningful, real-world experiences. By engaging with different cultures, our students are not just learning about the world—they are becoming active participants in creating a more connected and compassionate global community.
