MONTHLY
NEWSLETTERFEBRUARY
2024

Natural Spring photo by Otaro

MISSION
We educate students in a nurturing community where relationships
and meaningful connections are valued and celebrated. Our students
gain knowledge, communicate effectively, develop exceptional
character, and become responsible citizens of a global society.
We inquire into the world around us through rigorous academic
programs that aim to prepare students for life’s opportunities.

VISIONWe are a school where exceptional personal character and strong
relationships provide opportunities to excel in our areas of interest
and affect change in our local and global communities. We are a

OUR MOTTO
MOTIVATE

school where personal, social, and emotional support help build
global perspectives. We are a school that embraces diversity,
encourages leadership, and respects the values and unifying
traditions of the Marist Brothers.

Learning is a life-long journey

VALUESBELIEVE

EXCELLENCE: Make excellence and quality a part of each day andTogether we can change the world

seek continuous improvement in all that we do.
PARTNERSHIPS: Build sustainable and meaningful partnerships,

INSPIRE
Follow our lead as we pursue our dreams

embrace diversity, and connect with the community.
INNOVATION: Seek innovative and creative approaches toproblem-solving.

SUCCEED
From Japan to the rest of the world

CARE: Be a person of good character who is responsible,
respectful, reflective, and acts to make the world a better place.

MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Shawn Hutchinson

As we publish another edition of our monthly newsletter, I am filled with gratitude for the active and caring community that exists
at Marist. It is our community that truly embodies our school's mission statement: "We educate students in a nurturing community
where relationships and meaningful connections are valued and celebrated."
In daily interactions, whether they are between students, teachers, parents, or members of our leadership team, we see theimportance of these relationships. It is through these connections that we create an environment where individuals feel supported,
respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Central to our mission is the holistic development of our students. Beyond academic achievement, we strive to nurture exceptional
character within each individual. Through a combination of rigorous academic programs and intentional character education
initiatives, our students not only gain knowledge but also learn to communicate effectively, collaborate, and demonstrate empathy
and integrity in all that they do.
Moreover, we are committed to preparing our students to be responsible citizens of a global society. Our inquiry-based approachencourages curiosity and critical thinking, empowering students to engage meaningfully with the world around them. By fostering
a deep understanding of global issues and promoting cultural awareness, we equip our students with the skills and perspectives
needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
As we continue on our journey of education and growth, let us reaffirm our commitment to our mission and values. Let us
continue to prioritize relationships, celebrate connections, and instill in our students the knowledge, skills, and values they need to
thrive in life's opportunities.
Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our community.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD
The Marist Brothers International School Board of Directors and Trustees have approved the academic key dates for the 20242025 academic year. The information presented below is, as far as possible, accurate and up to date at the time of publishing.
MBIS, however, reserves the right to make changes to the calendar during the academic year.
マリストブラザーズインターナショナルスクール理事会および評議員会は、2024-2025年度のアカデミックカレンダーを承認いたしました。以下に記載されている情報は、可能な限り正確な現時点での最新情報です。しかしながら、事情により年度中にカレンダーの内容を変更することもございますのでご了承ください。
1 August

New Staff and Faculty Arrive（新教職員到着）

7 - 9 August

New Staff and Teacher Induction（新職員研修）

14 - 16 August

Faculty Orientation（教職員研修）

19 AugustQuarter 1 Starts（前期 第一四半期 開始日）
Beginning of Semester 1
Start of Academic Year

18 October

Quarter 1 Ends（前期 第一四半期 終了日）

19 October

Food Fair（フードフェア）

21-25 October

Fall Break（秋期休暇）

28 October

Quarter 2 Starts（前期 第二四半期 開始日）

23 December

Winter Break Starts（冬期休暇）

13 January

School Resumes（冬期休暇明け登校日）

23 January

Quarter 2 Ends（前期 第二四半期 終了日）
End of Semester 1

27 January

Quarter 3 Starts（後期 第三四半期 開始日）
Beginning of Semester 2

21 March

Quarter 3 Ends（後期 第三四半期 終了日）

24-28 MarchSpring Break（春期休暇）

31 March

Quarter 4 Starts（後期 第四四半期 開始日）

2 & 5-6 May

Golden Week Holiday（ゴールデンウイーク休暇）

12 JuneQuarter 4 Ends（後期 第四四半期 終了日）
End of Semester 2
End of Academic Year

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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MESSAGE FROM THE DEPUTY
HEAD OF SCHOOL / HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Derek Lipp

The month of February has flown by and soon we will be holding our annual Sports Day, beginning Spring Break and enjoying thecherry blossoms starting to bloom.
As our Senior students enter the last period of their schooling, I would like to congratulate them on their dedication andcommitment to their studies during the recent mock examinations. We wish our Senior students well in their studies for the IB
World examinations and are hopeful of excellent results.
Continuing with academics, we recognized all the students in the Upper School for their strong academic performance inSemester One. First and Second Honors certificates were awarded at assembly at the beginning of February. The real focus
for students, however, should be performing at their best and applying themselves to use all of the abilities they have. Shoulda student’s best not be at a level whereby they receive an Honors certificate, this should not be a concern for them, but rather,
they should be proud of what they have achieved. All students should take some time reading their reports again at this time andconcentrate on the areas of improvement outlined by teachers. This feedback, coupled with some specific plans focussed on time
management, might provide the boost to take them to the next level in their studies.
A big thank you to Mr. Deyss and Ms. Yuksel for the mentorship of students during the Model United Nations throughout the year
which culminated in the annual Marist MUN being held at the Sannomiya Convention Center last week. A number of students wererecognized for their performance. You can read more about the MUN later in this edition of the newsletter.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF LOWER SCHOOL
Stephanie Hanamura

As we reflect on the month of February, I'm delighted to share our school-wide focus: caring. At our school, we believe that
nurturing a sense of empathy and compassion enriches not only our school community but also extends beyond its boundaries.
Our Grade 1 and 2 students have been embracing the spirit of caring through music and movement. They've been practicing
their "caring song" along with a lively hip-hop dance, gearing up to showcase their dedication to compassion.
Additionally, our Student Council (StuCo) has been diligently planning our upcoming movie night scheduled for Monday, March
18th. Have you signed up for this event yet? To know more about the event, click here.（ムービー・ナイトに関するご案
内は、こちらからご確認ください.) This event is not just about entertainment; it's an opportunity for us to rally together andsupport those affected by the recent Noto earthquake. The efforts of our National Honor Society (NHS) students, working hand inhand with StuCo, demonstrate our collective commitment to service learning and community support.

Furthermore, fostering open communication is integral to our ethos of caring. We encourage parents to engage directly withteachers to discuss their child's growth and learning journey and to keep lines of communication open. As the Head of Lower,
I also emphasize the importance of reciprocal sharing between parents, teachers, students, and administration. It is through thiscollaborative exchange that we can achieve the most positive outcomes for our students.
As we reflect on the theme of "Caring" this month, let us remember that compassion knows no bounds. Together, we embody theethos that "We show compassion within our school community and beyond." We stand ready to work hand in hand with you.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

5MESSAGE FROM THE IBDP COORDINATOR
Gunseli Yuksel

Grade 12 students had an intensive two-week session of IB mock exams on February 5-16. The purpose of mock examinations isto help students better prepare for the IB world exams; the mock examinations also inform the teaching and learning until the actual
examinations. Moreover, the students get the opportunity to receive teacher feedback on their performance on the course material
and revise for the actual exams accordingly.
The IB World Examinations will take place from April 24 to May 17.

The 2023-2024 academic year has proven to be notably busy for the MBIS faculty. The dedicated team of teachers is working
hard to provide the students with optimal learning opportunities in their learning journey, concurrently ensuring the meticulous
completion of stages within the MYP and PYP authorization processes. Some of the key aspects of this undertaking include unit
planning, policy review, and the enrichment of teaching and learning strategies. The collective dedication and achievements since
the beginning of the year will leave a lasting impact on the school records.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

MESSAGE FROM THE MUN ADVISORMark Deyss

From February 22-23, Marist was delighted to host the 37th annual Model United Nations at the Sannomiya Convention Center in
downtown Kobe. Over 80 students from nine international schools from across Japan joined the conference where they debatedthe issues of “water wars”, “gender in sports” and “CRISPR” gene editing technology.
Marist tenth-grade students had a particularly strong showing at the recent conference with two students - Minseo Eom and Amritha
Kamath - winning “Outstanding Delegate” awards while fellow tenth-grader, Yoonseo Eom was awarded the top prize for her
outstanding diplomatic skill. With such a strong, young cohort, the MUN program is sure to enjoy success in future years.
As always, the conference concluded with all delegates debating an emergency crisis resolution. This year's crisis simulated the all
too real possibility of regional war breaking out in the Middle East.
Marist MUN advisor, Mr. Deyss would like to recognize this year's committee chairs, Rina Okazaki, Mrigank Mookim, Alex Hur,and Aaryan Bhasin for the hard work they contributed to ensuring a successful conference. Additionally, Mr. Deyss would like tosay thank you to Mrs. Gunseli and Mrs. Inada for all their help with MUN. Finally, Mr. Deyss offers his appreciation to the Marist
PTA for their generous financial support of the Marist MUN conference.
While this year’s Marist MUN is finished, the MUN season goes on. In March, several tenth-grade Marist students will spend theirfirst few days of Spring Break at the Japan Metropolitan Model United Nations in Yokohama.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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MESSAGE FROM THE WHOLE SCHOOL COUNSELOR
Taeko Sakurai

Emotional Intelligence: Building Emotional Bonds withYour Children
This month, in our "Parents as Learners" session, I presented
a talk titled "Emotional Intelligence: Building Emotional Bonds
with Your Children." In this article, I'll summarise the discussion
and talk about emotional intelligence (EQ), which is essential
for human well-being.
What is EQ?
EQ stands for "Emotional Intelligence Quotient," which isthe ability to understand and deal with our own and others'
feelings. This concept was introduced by an American
psychologist named Daniel Goleman in his book "Emotional
Intelligence" in 1995. While IQ measures cognitive abilities likemath and language skills, EQ focuses on non-cognitive abilities
like cooperation and communication, which are crucial forbuilding friendships and social relationships.

The Importance of Developing EQ in ChildhoodChildhood is a crucial time for forming attachments, which
provides children with a sense of security when they arewith close family members. This feeling of security is vitalfor building relationships and is one of the foundations of
non-cognitive abilities. By experiencing a sense of security
during childhood, children can develop EQ. It impacts theirself-awareness, relationships, and overall happiness throughout
their lives.
Why Developing EQ in Childhood Matters?
People with high EQ can understand their own and others'
emotions and communicate effectively, which plays essential
roles in relationships and leadership. Therefore, fostering a
sense of security and developing EQ in childhood is critical for
future happiness and success.
How Parents Can Foster Children's EQ
Parents can help by assisting children in understanding
their emotions and thoughts, encouraging them to express
themselves, and providing a sense of security when theyexpress their feelings. Good communication is crucial forunderstanding children's emotions and providing them with asense of being heard.
Tips for Effective Communication with Children

Benefits of Having High EQ
People with high EQ have various advantages. They are
empathetic, meaning they can maintain good relationships
with others, consider their friends' feelings, offer appropriate
support, and accept support from others when they facedifficulties. They can regulate their emotions well, handle
anger or sadness appropriately, maintain positive attitudes, andquickly recover from failures. Additionally, they have high selfesteem, actively take on challenges, persevere until the end,
and accept themselves, leading to tolerance towards others.
On the other hand, people with low EQ may find it difficult toempathise with others, experience troubles in relationships, andfrequently encounter negative emotions.

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•
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Maintain eye contact and speak at their eye level.
Listen actively, nodding or using affirmations.
Repeat their words to show understanding.
Avoid interrupting; listen attentively when they starttalking.
Use "HOW?" rather than "WHY?" to encourage
elaboration.
Refrain from evaluation or criticism.
Avoid denial (Do not use "but").
Listen while simulating their experiences, like watching amovie.

By following these tips, parents can support their children's
EQ development. Additionally, by connecting with children's
emotions and sharing their own, parents can strengthen
the bond with their children. By "listening to our children
sincerely," we can enhance their EQ, increase their lifelong
happiness, and deepen our bonds with our children!

Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

MESSAGE FROM THE GUIDANCE COUNSELOR
Hulya Park

Exploring University Options
Choosing the right university can be both challenging and exciting. There are so many options to choose from that it is impossible
to explore them all. Having a clear idea of the factors to consider and reliable information sources is crucial.
The first step is making a list of the factors that are important to you. For some, the geographic location and climate might be top
priorities. For others, it might be the affordability of the school. These are both valid factors that need to be considered. Let’s
make a starter list of the factors we need to consider:
Academic programs and reputation: Does the university offer the course you wish to study? Are they a ‘good’ university in thatfield?
Entry requirements: Do you fulfill the requirements to get admission to this university?
Location: Which country do you want to study in? Do you prefer an urban or rural setting? How far from home is it? Does thecampus area offer opportunities for potential jobs?
Size: Do you want a large or a smaller campus? The university's size will impact class sizes, faculty-student ratio, and overall
community.
Financial considerations: Can you afford the tuition fees and living expenses? Do they offer scholarships?
Facilities and resources: Do you have access to laboratories or any other resources you might need for your studies?
After graduation: What is the job placement rate? Do they offer career services?
These are just a few factors to consider when making your university list. Even with a clear checklist, gathering information fromeach university’s website individually can be time-consuming. Fortunately, there are reliable sources out there that can help youwith your search. While these sources are reliable, it is recommended that you double-check the information on the university’s
website.
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For the United Kingdom: UCAS
For the US: CommonApp, BigFuture, College Scorecard
For Canada: EduCanada
For Netherlands: StudyinNL
For Germany: DAADFor Australia: StudyAustralia
For Korea: StudyinKorea
For Hong Kong: StudyHK

Every student or family will have different priorities when it comes to their university search. Take your time to thoroughly researchpotential schools and consult with your guidance counselor to make an informed decision.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

9Links to previous events
Alumni Mentorship Program: For our February session, we welcomed Karen Lipp (Class of 2016, University of Queensland)and Fiza Razik (Class of 2015, Keio University). They shared their experiences of studying and working in Australia and Japan
respectively. You can access the recording here.
Alumni Mentorship Program March Session
Our March session will feature Sanay Bennur from the Class of 2023. Sanay is a first-year student at King’s College London
studying Culture, Media & Creative Industries. The session will be conducted online. We recommend that all students interested instudying in the UK should join!

10Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

A MESSAGE FROM THE SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Jay Inman

Grades 9 and 10 have been busy in the chemistry laboratory. In the Grade 9 chemistry lab, the young scientists took on thechallenge of developing a chemical lab procedure. Their mission? Unravel the mystery of unknown chemicals found at a crime
scene, armed only with their knowledge of acids and bases. Picture this: test tubes clinking, minds buzzing with curiosity, as theyskillfully crafted a procedure that would reveal the secrets hidden within those elusive substances.
But the excitement didn't stop there! Once the procedure was perfected, our fearless Grade 9 scientists dove headfirst into action,
testing the unknown chemicals with precision. The revelation came in the form of pH magic, as they identified and unlocked thesecrets concealed within the mysterious compounds. As the final touch, each student submitted a comprehensive report using thestate-of-the-art Bulldog Crime Lab ManageBac System (BCLMBS), showcasing their prowess in the world of forensic chemistry.
Meanwhile, over in Grade 10, a different kind of chemistry magic was brewing. Grade 10 took on the challenge of investigating
the factors that influence the rate of a chemical reaction. Imagine the laboratory alive with energy as students explored the impact
of temperature, particle size (surface area), and the concentration of reactants on the fascinating collision of particles. The Grade
10 scientists unleashed their creativity using common household chemicals to demonstrate one of these influential factors. It wasa symphony of reactions, a visual feast of bubbling beakers and colorful concoctions as they showcased their understanding of
Criterion B and C assessments.
These chemistry adventures have ignited a spark of passion for science within our Grades 9 and 10 students. The schoollaboratory has become a stage for discovery, where the magic of chemistry unfolds in every experiment. Stay tuned for morethrilling updates from our young scientists as they continue to push the boundaries of scientific exploration!

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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GRADES ONE AND TWO
CELEBRATING LUNAR NEW YEAR’S DAY
Venus Yoon / Sherrie Ito

In Korea, Lunar New Year’s Day is celebrated, marking the beginning of the new year. Rather than January 1, 2024, the New Year
this year commenced on February 10, 2024.
Grade 2 students and Grade 1 students celebrated Korean New Year's Day, immersing themselves in its rich traditions with theguidance of a Korean family.

Throughout the immersive experience, we engaged in learning the Korean language, practiced the traditional New Year's
ceremony of bowing, and mastered the art of making Korean kites. Each child wrote down their New Year’s resolutions andsoared their kites into the sky!
The day overflowed with joy, discovery, and a deepened understanding of Korean culture, all thanks to the invaluable insights
generously shared by our Korean hosts. It was an unforgettable and enlightening experience for everyone involved!

We eagerly anticipate embracing and celebrating the holidays of other cultures, as it fosters open-mindedness in our children andprepares us all to be global citizens! A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Moon for capturing these cherished moments!
Happy New Year Everyone! As we welcome the New Year, let's remember to cherish the small joys every day brings. Whether
it's a warm hug, a sunny day, or a smile from a friend, let's be grateful for these little moments that make life beautiful. Dream big,
explore fearlessly, and always remember how much you are loved!

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

GRADE TWO AND GRADE SEVEN
READING BUDDIES

Christopher Spaulding / Julie Sugiuchi
Every Tuesday during homeroom, Grade Two hosts the Grade Seven students in our classroom for a Reading Buddies program.
Not only do reading buddies encourage confidence, fluency, and reading stamina, but they also strengthen the bonds within our
school community and create important connections between upper and lower school students.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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MESSAGE FROM THE ARTS DEPARTMENT
Rebecca Carter

We are thrilled to share some remarkable achievements from
our Arts Department that showcase the creativity and dedicationof our students over the past two months.
Grade 5 iPad Bands in Music:
Under the guidance of Mr. Anthony Tay, our Grade 5 Music
Students have been working collaboratively to explore theworld of digital music using iPads. They have been using theiPad in “band groups” to perform pop songs, learning to use
digital drums, keyboard, and guitars. Featured in the pictures,
these students are learning to combine drums with keyboard
on the iPads. In the following lessons, they will combine digital
guitars and possibly have a singer in each group. The use of
ICT allows each individual student access to multiple instruments, learn new ways to produce music, and allows them to perform
collaboratively in groups. The results so far are truly impressive, and it has been wonderful to see the harmonious blend oftechnology and musical expression
Paper Lantern Sculptures in Grade 9/10 Visual Arts:
In the realm of Visual Arts, our Grade 9 and 10 students have been channeling their artistic vision into stunning Ethereal
Illuminated Paper Lantern sculptures. Throughout this project, the students were not only immersed in the technical aspects ofconstructing these lanterns but were also exploring the cultural and symbolic meanings behind them. Through this project, theygained insights into the diverse traditions associated with paper lanterns, from their use in lantern festivals to their influence on
modern artistic expression. The lantern sculptures are not just artistic creations; they are windows into the cultural narratives andpersonal expressions of our talented students. The Visual Arts classroom has truly transformed into a gallery of vivid and uniquemasterpieces. We invite you to witness the illuminating results of the students’ hard work through these photographs.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

Digital Photography Techniques and Composition in Grade 4:
In Lower School Visual Art classes, Grade 4 students have been exploring how to use their iPads as a way to frame and shape theideas of the world around them through the camera lens with Mr. Petersen. The class has been practicing key compositional rules
like the rule of thirds, rule of odds, simplification, and techniques like motion blur, exploiting exposure, working in macro, andexploring depth of field. Students will participate in the annual competition held in Kyoto for student photographers, submitting aphoto on the theme of ‘Source’. We wish them all the best in the appraisal of their works. To support their explorations, students
photographed around the school and went on a field trip to Tsunashiki Tenmangu and Sumadera to find new inspiration for theirworks and to practice their techniques. It has been a fruitful and fun time learning about photography together.

Natural Spring photo by Otaro / Colour Field photo by Rikka

We encourage you to visit Marist's Spring Arts Festival in the afternoon of April 24, to witness these and many other incredible
works firsthand and celebrate the artistic journey of our students. Stay tuned for more detailed announcements about this festival in
the coming months!
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Arts at MBIS.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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MESSAGE FROM THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
Jason Mejia

Season 3 has been in full swing for the month of February, with our HS teams enjoying weekend friendlies and a full day festival at
CA. Our Women’s team got a rare opportunity to travel up to Yokohama for two games, playing admirably well and continuing torefine their skills for the WJAA Tournament in Iwakuni.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

The Men’s soccer Varsity and JV teams also placed second andthird in their respective divisions at the SOIS Futsal Tournament,
which they hope to carry over to their appearance in the Perry
Cup in March - their final gear up before their WJAA Tournamentat Nagoya.

Our MS teams have been diligently preparing for their own
respective tournament on March 1st and 2nd as well. The
MS Boys travel to CA for their soccer tournament, while
Marist hosts the MS Girls basketball. Feel free to drop by
the Dogpound (gym) on either day to support the MS Girls
Basketball team, or swing by CA if you have a chance to cheer
on the MS Boys.

Lastly, Season 4 sign-ups are open for all - HS baseball/softball, MSB Volleyball, and MSG softball. Please visit SchoolsBuddy toregister. Also, if you are interested in helping out in some capacity with Athletics next year - whether it be as a coach, assistant, ororganizing fundraisers with the PTA - please feel free to reach out.
Go Bulldogs!
Celebrating Alex Hur’s Triumph in Speed Skating
We are thrilled to announce the outstanding achievements of Alex
Hur, one of our Grade 12 students, in the recent speed skatingcompetitions. Alex's successes at the 73rd National High School
Speed Skating Championships and the 78th National WinterSports Festival Speed Skating Competition have brought pride andrecognition to our school community.
At the 73rd National High School Speed Skating Championships, Alex demonstrated his skill and determination by securingcommendable positions. He claimed 3rd place in the 500m event, earning a commendation, and 4th place in the 1000m event,receiving a well-deserved award for his performance.
Building upon this achievement, Alex's journey continued at the 78th National Winter Sports Festival Speed Skating Competition.
Here clinched 2nd place in the 500m event and 1st place in the 1000m event.
What sets Alex's accomplishments apart is his courageous decision to challenge the status quo in speed skating. Determined toprove that Hyogo Prefecture, despite the absence of a 400m speed rink, possesses talent in short-distance events, Alex set hissights on victory. His determination to compete against Hokkaido athletes, renowned for their dominance in short-distance skating,speaks volumes about his passion for the sport.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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Amidst the rigorous demands of academic commitments, Alex's pursuit of excellence paid off. His performances earned him theadmiration and support of his peers, teachers, and the Hyogo Prefectural Athletic Association. We extend our thanks to the Hyogo
Prefectural Athletic Association for their support and encouragement.
Alex's triumphs serve as a testament to the values of perseverance and sportsmanship instilled in him through Marist's education.
As he continues to excel on the ice and beyond, we stand behind him, cheering him on every step of the way.
On behalf of the entire school community, we congratulate Alex on his achievements and wish him continued success in all his
future endeavors. Let us continue to support and celebrate the talents of our students like Alex Hur. Go, Alex!

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International SchoolUPPER SCHOOL STUDENT COUNCIL UPDATEThe month of February was exceptionally busy, not only for the Student Council but also for the seniors who experienced a toughtwo weeks of mock exams. As a means of unwinding, Student Council organized a dance party for the entire upper school tocelebrate a night of valentines romance. The event featured a wide variety of food, beverages, and entertaining music. A special
thanks to the Dance party committee inclusive of the following: Mrigank, Sehej, Jay, Divot, and Rina for organizing this event
weeks in advance. Students were able to enjoy a festive evening with their friends whilst being entertained with a variety of dance
party games. We hope with our upcoming initiatives, our events are able to help increase the positive spirit and enrich the overall
experience within our community.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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SERVICE LEARNING ACHIEVEMENTS
Mio Ranni

National Honor Society (NHS)The NHS continues its commitment to promoting its four pillars among younger students through ongoing projects. On Thursday,
February 1, the Scholarship Project team hosted a "Public Manner Session" in the gym for Grade 5 through 8 students. NHS
students began with a presentation on proper public behavior, emphasizing polite language, offering assistance to others, andrepresenting Marist with pride, particularly when in uniform. Following the presentation, students engaged in an activity focusedon delivering a proper greeting, saying "Good morning!" in a clear and friendly manner. This workshop not only encouraged
younger students to reflect on their conduct in public settings but also highlighted the responsibility of high school students toeffectively impart important messages to younger generations.

Continuing from last month, NHS candidates have been
visiting Upper School morning homerooms to deliver reflection
speeches. These speeches aim to educate younger students
about how they are embodying scholarship, leadership, andcharacter through various service activities throughout theschool year. This initiative provides younger students with theopportunity to begin considering future leadership roles andresponsibilities. Additionally, for NHS candidates, this public
speaking opportunity serves as a chance to deeply reflect
on their achievements before their formal induction into theorganization at the Induction Ceremony in May.
Marist Brothers Honor Society (MHS)The final CPR training session for this school year took place on February 7 after school. Approximately 20 students from theFundraising Committee and Community Event Committee participated. Two representatives from the Japan Red Cross Hyogo
Division were invited to conduct the training session. They provided a comprehensive lecture on effective CPR techniques inpublic settings. Following the lecture, all students had the opportunity to practice CPR using manikins and AED machines. Duringa reflection meeting following one of these sessions, a senior student remarked, "After four years of CPR training in MHS, I finallyfeel confident enough to take action and assist others in emergency situations." We extend our sincere gratitude to the Japan Red
Cross Hyogo Division for their invaluable assistance and guidance in training our students to effectively respond to emergencies
and save lives.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

Following the CPR training, Grade 12 student Aaryan Bhasin, Upper School Student Council Treasurer, and Grade 11 student
Sehej Chadha, MHS/NHS Treasurer, met with representatives from the Japan Red Cross Hyogo Division to present a donation of
106,866 yen. This donation will be utilized to support the 2024 Noto Earthquake victims in Ishikawa prefecture. The Red Cross
staff expressed their gratitude to our student leaders and assured that the funds will be used to aid the victims in rebuilding theirlives. We extend our gratitude to all students, parents, and staff of MBIS for their generous contributions on the special casual day
held on February 2 to support the earthquake victims.
On February 9, a total of 26 MHS students proudly represented
our school and assisted during our Open House, where 40
prospective students and their families visited our campus.
Our student volunteers guided each visiting family on a school
tour, showcasing our classrooms, gym, art room, and library.
As they toured the school, the visitors engaged in discussions
about school life. The Student Ambassadors shared personal
anecdotes about why they cherish their school experience.
One grade 9 Student Ambassador reflected, stating, "Therewas so much more I wanted to share, but time was limited.
This opportunity helped me understand not only why I love
this school, but also how to effectively organize and convey
information to others."

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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February, known as the month of love, saw our MHS
Fundraising Committee organize a Valentine Bake Sale on
Valentine's Day. Generously donated baked goods from Ms.
Buchanan, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Peterson, Mr. Lipp, and Mr. Ranni,
including donuts, brownies, cupcakes, and cookies, wereavailable for purchase. Additionally, committee members baked
cinnamon rolls at school prior to the event. The proceedsof 9,700 JPY will be allocated towards MHS charity activities
and community service initiatives in the future. We extend ourheartfelt thanks to the teachers for their generous contributions
and to everyone who supported the event by making
purchases.
To combat the cold weather with warmth and kindness, theIn-School Service Committee organized a free hot chocolate
day on Friday, February 16. This event aimed to uplift
students' spirits and promote focus during afternoon classes
after enjoying a cup of hot chocolate during lunch recess.
The committee set up a booth on the second floor, offering
complimentary hot chocolate to teachers and students as they
made their way to their period-6 classrooms. The sight ofstudents with big smiles enjoying this small surprise warmed
our hearts. We hope everyone stays warm, healthy, andresilient during the coldest month of the year.

Marist Brothers Honor Society Junior (MHSJ)MHS Junior members have been actively engaged in weekly
meetings during Friday lunchtimes to advance the farming
project for Semester 2. With the support and guidance of highschool students, they have planted spinach, broccoli, radish
seeds, and strawberries in eight different pots on the secondfloor balcony. These plants are nurtured using organic soil andreusable eco-friendly cloth pots. The aim is to harvest the fruits
and vegetables in spring and subsequently donate them to ourschool cafeteria.

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Kobe Kiwanis Builders Club
During the morning assembly on February 2, Grade 8 students Anna Ishii, Shion Hayashi, Shione Inui, and Yuta Ueki made anannouncement regarding the Kobe Kiwanis Builders Club. The Kiwanis Builders Club is an international organization designed for
middle school students to engage in leadership development through community service. Currently, MBIS, CA, and KIA are in theprocess of establishing this club, with plans for its official launch in April. As part of our inaugural activities, there will be a charity
event and environmental workshop this school year, where students from all three schools will come together to collaborate. We
encourage you to view the poster below and consider joining the Kobe Kiwanis Builders Club by April 1st.

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Personal ProjectSome students have been taking great initiatives to proceed with their own and unique personal service projects throughout theschool year. Congratulations to the student below on her service achievement for the month.
Potato Project (written by Grade 10 Michelle Ranni)With assistance from local farmers and a potato processing factory in Nishi-ku, Kobe, I've been able to create packaged dried
potatoes using the ones harvested last year. These tender and sweet potatoes were specifically prepared for children battlingcancer. Last year, I donated around 10 kg of potatoes with the help of MHS students, and the staff at the Child Chemo House
expressed their gratitude. Wanting to extend my help to more children, I brainstormed ways to do so. By processing the potatoes
into a healthy snack, they can last longer, allowing children to eat them gradually over an extended period. I came up with the ideaof transforming these potatoes into snack products. Approximately 4 kg of potatoes were transformed into 9 small packages ofdried potatoes. These potatoes were first baked, then dried to enhance their sweetness, with no chemicals or preservatives added.
Just before Valentine’s Day on February 10, I visited the Child Chemo House to donate these packaged sweet potato snacks,
which I named "Hoshi-chan," to the children staying there. "Hoshi" means "dry" and also "star." I hope that this humble potato
snack can be a source of hope, much like a star, for the local community. I would like to express my gratitude to the farmers fromvarious farms in Nishi-ku for their contribution to the successful production of this product.

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MESSAGE FROM THE PTA PRESIDENTDavid Polen

The PTA has been working on a multitude of projects over the last several months. To begin, the PTA has teamed up with theLower School Student Council. We have been working in collaboration on the upcoming StuCo Movie Night. The student council
has been doing all of the work, while the PTA has offered to support their efforts. We have had co-StuCo-PTA meetings and thestudents have done a wonderful job presenting their objectives. They have been organized and clear in their requests, asking for
the PTA’s support, in various areas in order to host their upcoming event. It has been a pleasure watching these kids work, andseeing these young leaders collaborate as a team to put together an event for their fellow students.
We have also, made a couple of purchases that we hope everyone will enjoy! We now have new popcorn and cotton candymachines! We hope this will add a new dimension to PTA hosted events!!
Of course, the long awaited BINGO NIGHT is coming up, on April 5th, as well! Our last BINGO NIGHT was a huge success, andwe are hoping we can make this year’s BINGO NIGHT even more fun!! Many of you signed up within the first several hours of theannouncement, and we hope to see you all there! If you haven’t already signed up, do it now!
We will have more announcements in the upcoming newsletters. Thank you to all of the parents who have supported the PTA!!
If you are interested in participating in PTA activities, either as a PTA member or an event volunteer, please reach out to DavidPolen at pta@marist.ac.jp for more information.

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MARIST ALUMNI ASSOCIATION TOKYO REUNION
Miki Kobayashi

The Marist Tokyo Alumni Reunion on February 24 brought together approximately 30 alumni from just a decade to over half acentury ago in Azabu, Tokyo. It was a delight to see classmates and friends reunite after many years apart, some for the first timesince graduating from Marist. Laughter and stories from ‘sneaking out to Suma beach’ days filled the air, and it was clear that time
had no effect on the spirit and bonds that define Marist.
The after-party hosted at the residence of Gary Smith, a charismatic figure from the class of ’79, was a special setting for sharing
unique experiences. The room was a melting pot of diverse perspectives and talents with lawyers, manga creators, world-travelers,bankers, artists, business owners, and much more. Whatever the field, there was a sense of kinship and belonging that we were apart of the Marist family and will always be welcomed.
We would like to thank the members of the Marist Alumni Association who kindly invited the four of us (Miki Kobayashi, Shawn
Hutchinson, Mark Pilgrim, and Harry Dauer) at Marist to participate in such a lively, memorable reunion.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

OPEN HOUSE 2024 REFLECTIONS
Miki Kobayashi

Our annual Open House event on Friday, February 9, was a resounding success with close to 40 prospective families coming
to our campus to experience Marist. Our Student Ambassadors from grades 9 to 11 did an incredible job showcasing theirconfidence, kindness, and global mindedness, in addition to giving insightful tours by sharing their authentic experiences at
Marist. Their enthusiasm and ‘love of Marist’ left unforgettable impressions on the families, and many parents commented on how
they’d like their children to learn to be like our students. They were also impressed by the engaging learning in the classrooms,
the informative librarians, activities in the gym and the field, and the nurturing environment at Marist.
We are delighted to report a surge in applications for admission to the 2024-2025 school year, a reflection of the positive
feedback we received at Open House. The campus redevelopment is now underway with the construction of the new west
building. This expansion will enable us to accommodate the increasing enrollment by adding new classrooms and ensuring that
our students continue to receive personalized attention and resources.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making our Open House event a wonderful celebration of our school’s vibrant spirit
and caring community.

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heMARIST BROTHERSINTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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we take on challenges as active particpants
and dare to push beyond our comfort zones

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