MONTHLY
NEWSLETTER

AUGUST
2023

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

Once again, a warm welcome to the start of the 2023-2024 academic year. We trust that our new students and families aresettling in well to school life at Marist and we welcome back our returning students and families for another exciting academic
year ahead.
The start of another school year is an opportunity for all of us to make a fresh start, learn from the past and look forward toa positive future. It is a time of change as new students and teachers arrive and settle in and returning teachers and students
catch up about their vacations and share memories of last year’s events and activities.
We have an opportunity to begin the process of understanding our collective vision and potential involvement in helping ourschool become an exceptional international school in Kobe.
Our mission statement tells us who we are now and what we stand for now. We are a diverse community with over 30
nationalities represented. Our students and teachers are open-minded, responsible and caring. We demonstrate respect forothers, ourselves, and our environment every day and we aspire to make a positive difference.
Our core values are EPIC. We must strive to demonstrate these core values each day through our actions and interactions witheach other and our environment. Excellence is not only about being the best, but at our school it is about getting the best outof yourself. Partnerships are about authentic and real relationships that enable all of us to have critical and open conversations
about how we can best work together and achieve our collective goals. Innovation is about thinking critically, showing
entrepreneurial spirit, and being creative to develop something new. And finally, care is about placing yourself in the shoes ofothers, treating people with respect, dignity, and kindness.
We were delighted to receive news from the International Baccalaureate that we are now officially a candidate school for the
IB PYP and MYP. As we work towards authorization to become an IB continuum school in Japan, we will endeavor to draw
from our unique history and context. As an accredited international school, we are committed to infusing an international
mindedness among the students and Marist community. We are committed to fostering global awareness and intercultural
understanding and we encourage our students to see the world from different perspectives and to understand different
beliefs and practices. An international education also means helping our students to gain a deeper understanding of theinterconnectedness of global issues, cultures, and communities. It means to encourage students to take action to solve
complex global problems and promote values such as tolerance, empathy, compassion, and respect for all people.
The 2023-2024 academic year is going to be a great year for us all. I encourage students to participate fully in school life –get involved in sport, the arts, community service, and leadership. Embrace the opportunities they have available to them ortalk to their teachers about how they can initiate and create their own opportunities. We have made a really positive start to thisacademic year and I encourage you all to contact the school if you have any questions or would like assistance in supportingyour child’s education.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

Marist Brothers International School is a candidate school* for the PYP and MYP. This school is pursuing authorization as an
IB World School. IB World Schools share a common philosophy- a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international
education- that we believe is important for our students.
Marist Brothers International SchoolはPYPとMYPの候補校です。本校はIB World School としての認定を目指しております。IB World Schoolは質が高く、チャレンジングな国際教育への貢献が生徒にとって重要である、という共通の考えを共有しております。
* Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the PrimaryYears Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), or the Career-related
Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information
about the IB and its programmes visit http://www.ibo.org.
国際バカロレア機構によって認定された学校のみが、Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP),
Diploma Programme (DP), または Career-related Programme (CP)の４つの学術プログラムを開講することができます。
候補校のステータスは認定が授与されることを保証するものではありません。IBおよびそのプログラムに関する詳細については
http://www.ibo.orgにアクセスしてください。

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MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD
The month of August has been a busy month for the MBIS Board officers. We held an event at the Kobe Club on Saturday, 5
August to thank our outgoing officers for all their work and contributions and welcomed new members to the Board.
Board officers departing this year include:

Board officers joining this year include:

Kina Jackson

Kenji Toyoshima

Kimie Hirano

Jennifer Uchida

Patrick Judge

Akira Ikemi

Cyd Spanring-Forster

Paolo Nocent

Fazil Toorabally

Padma Goenka

Angie Troianos

Michael Settsu

A new board officer induction session was held on 7 August
followed by extraordinary meetings and the first combined
Board of Directors and Trustees meeting on Saturday, 26
August.
There are several board standing committees where
members of the school community can join and contributeto discussions and considerations. The following standing
committees will run in 2023-2024 – Strategic Planning
Committee, Board Development and Policy Committee, andthe Engagement Committee. If you are interested in joining
a committee, please contact ikenishiy@marist.ac.jp for more
information.

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

It has been a great start to the new school year and there is nothing better than seeing all the students back and enjoying eachother's company. The friendships that students make with each other while at school are probably the most long-lasting of theirlife and one of the main reasons students enjoy coming to school each day.
Apart from making new friends, our school provides students with many opportunities to help them become a positive memberof the local community. The Marist Honors Society has provided students with the opportunity to engage in service work in thelocal community that has motivated some of them to seek service work beyond those provided by our school.
Over the Summer, Ooki Nakaguchi (Grade 11) has been volunteering and assisting Mr. Shunsuke Kido (Father of Taiyo - Early
Years Kindergarten) who is the brainchild behind the introduction of the Universal Beach Project in Suma. After Mr. Kido’s
own personal experience with the Universal Beach Project in Australia in 2016, he was inspired to provide a similar experiencefor people in Japan at our own Suma Beach. Mr. Kido’s work allows those who may otherwise not have been able to feel thesensations of swimming and enjoying Suma Beach to do so. In Mr. Kido’s own words:“障がいに関係なく、ビーチを楽しむサポートをしています。
「できないをできた！に変える」というのを合言葉に、チャレンジのキッカケづくりをすることが、我々のミッションです。
皆さんも、須磨ビーチに遊びに来てくださいね”。
(Irrespective of any disability, we provide support to those who would like to enjoy the beach. Turning “can not” into “can”,
our mission is to provide opportunities to challenge people. We invite all of you to come and enjoy Suma Beach.
We are proud of Ooki’s initiative and taking the opportunity to help Mr. Kido with this project. We hope that other students too
are inspired by Ooki and Mr. Kido to provide support to those who are in need in our local community.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

5MESSAGE FROM THE IBDP COORDINATOR
Gunseli YukselClass of 2025 (August 25, IB DP Orientation)

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MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF LOWER SCHOOL
Stephanie Hanamura

Embracing Joyful Moments: The Power of Team Building
As we gear up for the new school year, we're thrilled toshare the magic of team building within our community.
Imagine our teachers, with smiles, batting balloons, creating
unity. This lighthearted experience reminds us of shared
moments, fostering togetherness and open communication.
Our dedicated educators pour passion into nurturing young
minds, showcasing their commitment to growth. These joyful
moments boost morale and strengthen bonds, contributing toan enriching learning environment.
Cheers to a promising year, and kudos to our remarkableeducators for their dedication.

A Heartwarming Start: Celebrating Students and Unity
The corridors of our school are once again alive with the liveliness and eagerness of our returning students. It's a heartwarming
sight to behold familiar faces filling the halls, accompanied by the excitement of 70 new students who have embarked on thiseducational journey with us.
Our first school-wide assembly marked a special occasion, gathering our entire student body as a united tapestry of cultures,viewpoints, and dreams. We came together for the first time this school year and took a few moments to acknowledge thewonderful diversity within our school and community.
During that gathering, we discussed what it truly means to possess a global mindset. We took the opportunity to remind ourstudents of the significance of understanding, respecting, and embracing one another's unique backgrounds and viewpoints.
We firmly believe that when students feel a genuine sense of belonging, they can truly thrive academically, socially, andemotionally. By nurturing this sense of belonging, we empower each student to grow into a kind-hearted and open-mindedglobal citizen.

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7And what better way to commence this journey than through the universal language of music? Our Grade 3 students shareda song that eloquently conveyed the importance of individuality and friendship. Their voices carried the message that each
person's distinctiveness is a treasure to be celebrated, and that by forging bonds of friendship, we enrich our lives andcontribute to a harmonious world. (VIDEO FROM ASSEMBLY)

As we embark on this new school year, let's carry the spirit of togetherness and empathy with us. United as a schoolcommunity, we hold the power to make a positive impact in the lives of our students and in the world at large.
Here's to a year of learning, discovery, and the cultivation of a truly global mindset. Welcome back, everyone!

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

MESSAGE FROM EARLY YEARS

Tina Mathers & Amanda McWilliams

What an amazing start to the new school year it has been! August has been abuzz with activity as the Early Years students
embarked on their fantastic journey of learning and growth. It is with great joy that we welcomed the newest members of ourschool community, the youngest hearts and minds in our care!
The children have been hard at work adjusting to new routines, getting acquainted with classroom procedures, and forming
connections with their "specials" classes and teachers. It is wonderful to see how well they've adapted.
At the end of the month, we successfully conducted the first of our monthly Fire and Earthquake Drills. These drills are an
essential part of our emergency preparedness efforts, and we encourage families to engage in open conversations with theirchildren about personal safety during emergencies.
We look forward to the upcoming months as we continue to guide and support each child's unique journey. Thank you
for entrusting us with your children's education and growth. Here's to a year filled with discovery, growth, and endlesspossibilities!

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

9MESSAGE FROM GRADE 1
Mrs. Ito & Mrs. Yoon

Grade 1 “Care Bear” Program - In Grade 1, we encourage and instill the importantvalues of “caring” and “compassion” for others in our students.

After a teacher recognizes an act of kindness by a Grade 1 student, the student
receives a handmade Care Bear badge to wear on their uniform for the rest of theday. This shows others in the school that they are caring and that they did something
nice for someone that day. In Grade 1, the students learn naturally how to spreadkindness and be good role models for their peers to follow through a variety ofactivities. The core values of caring and compassion are “lived” each day in theGrade 1 classroom. The Care Bear program is a great way to promote one of ourvery important Marist Expectations “Caring”.
We had our very first Care Bear Project during our first week of school! Each childdecorated a “Be Kind” poster and wrote down one way they could show kindness
to others at Marist. We would like to share a few of the ideas the Grade 1 students
wrote about.

I can be kind by…
“Being nice to my friends at Marist.”“Helping a friend who got hurt.”“Teaching math to my friends.”“Saying nice words to everybody.”“Saying I love you to the people I care about and love.”“Being there for a friend who is sad.”

The Grade 1 students will do their best to spreadkindness, care, and compassion throughout Marist
and our community in 2023-2024. Thank you foryour support in advance. Please cheer for our Care
Bears!!

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MESSAGE FROM THE WHOLE SCHOOL COUNSELOR
Taeko Sakurai

From September, we will have a fantastic new friend at Marist, called Komodo! The Komodo Wellbeing Platform is a great
website that helps provide oversight to students' well-being at our school.
What is Komodo?

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

How do we use it?
Every two weeks, our students will be asked to answer a simple survey regarding their well-being such as sleep, school climate,achievement and learning, enjoyment of school, and emotional well-being during homeroom time. Their answers will be kept
confidential and used to monitor their overall wellbeing of all students.
Thank you for your support. If you have any questions please contact Stephanie Hanamura or Taeko Sakurai.

Marist Brothers International School | Newsletter

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MESSAGE FROM THE GUIDANCE COUNSELOR
Hulya ParkAs we start our new academic year, we are happy to share with you that our Class of 2023 has successfully embarked on their
new chapters after Marist. We are proud of their achievements and aspirations.
Diverse university placements
At Marist, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive learning environment. We are thrilled to share the remarkable
placements of our graduates which reflect their hard work.
Our valedictorian, Yusei Noguchi, has been accepted to the University of California, Berkeley. He will pursue a degree inApplied Mathematics. He is also the recipient of the prestigious Sasakawa Peace Foundation Scholarship.
Our salutatorian, Sanay Bennur, has received an offer from King’s College London to study Culture, Media and Creative
Industries. King’s College London was ranked 35th in the THE University Rankings in 2023.
Julian Lang will be studying International Bachelor Economics and Business Economics at Erasmus University Rotterdam.
Kirti Vaswani will be studying Biomedical Science at York University, Canada.
Other destinations for our Class of 2023 include Mount Royal University and the University of British Columbia in Canada,
Waseda University and Kwansei Gakuin University in Japan, Rutgers University in the USA, and the University of Tilburg in the
Netherlands.
Other Pathways
Some of our students have chosen to take some time off to discover the options on their own terms. We celebrate theircourage to explore new opportunities.
Hannes Sigurdsson is set to attend Fjellheim Bible School in Norway for a year, then the University of Reykjavik in Iceland.
We have graduates who are waiting to apply to Australian universities for February intake and to Japanese universities forApril intake. Even though they graduated, we still consult with them and support their application. We are eagerly waiting tocelebrate their success together.
These results show the diverse aspirations of our students. We congratulate all and wish them the best in the next chapter of
their journey.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION
Miki Kobayashi

Welcoming New Families: A Memorable New Student Orientation Day
A mix of excitement, uncertainty, and hope filled the air as families from diverse backgrounds came together in the MBIS gym
for the New Student Orientation on August 18th. This year, the school had the pleasure of welcoming a record-breaking 71
new students, each eager to begin their journey of learning and community. Many already had their brand-new Marist uniform
on, looking nervous but proud as they attached their name tags onto their shirts.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome address from the Head of School, Mr. Shawn Hutchinson, who expressed genuinedelight that new families from 13 different nationalities will further enrich the culture of our diverse community. The Heads ofLower and Upper Schools helped ease the transition with practical information, helpful resources, and emotional support. The
new families were encouraged to reach out to members of the Academic Leadership Team for help in specific areas like socialemotional wellbeing, university guidance, understanding the IBDP, and referring friends for admission to Marist.
The event culminated in group tours, led by six 10th grade MHS students who shared their curricular experiences in various
class locations. The families had a chance to mingle with other families in close grade-groups before finally arriving at theirrespective classrooms to meet the homeroom teachers. The new students also had a chance to meet some of their specialist
teachers for Art, Music, PE, and Japanese. The event set the stage for a year filled with academic achievements, personal
growth, and lasting friendships that Marist is sure to provide.

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MESSAGE FROM THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
Jason Mejia

Welcome back, Marist Bulldogs! Season 1 has gotten underway, with a lot of new faces leading our athletes. Ms. Park is bringing her passion
and lifelong experience with volleyball to the High School Women’s team, while Ms. Kuhl, Ms. Kobayashi, and Ms. Nguyen guide the Middle
School Girls with their steady temperament and valuable expertise. Both teams look to build off of successful seasons last year and are
expected to contend for the WJAA Championship.
On the Men’s Varsity Volleyball side, Mr. Hill has returned to guide them back to prominence and to continue to foster their growth from lastyear; the idea of a top finish is not out of the question for this talented team. As for the Middle School Boys’ Baseball team, Mr. Stang will bejoined by Mr. Sakai this year with their eyes set on a championship run. We wish them all the best as they begin their journeys.

A message regarding SchoolsBuddy: Please be aware that payment details will be provided once Season 1 registrations have been completed.
You are not required to make payment until you receive further details. If you need support, please contact mejiaj@marist.ac.jp.
Athletic Season 1の登録が完了した後に、部費のお支払いに関する詳細をお知らせいたします。。現時点ではお支払いは必要はありませんので、大変恐縮ではございますが、近日中に配信するお知らせをお待ちください。ご質問がある場合は、mejiaj@marist.ac.jpまでご連絡ください。

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

MARIST TENNIS CLUBMrs. Yoon

The Marist Tennis Club began last school year with 23 enthusiastic members from
Grades 1-6. But it's more than just learning tennis – we're also all about teamwork
and building strong friendships and supporting one another like a family.
We follow the Marist Mission which is to nurture community where relationships andmeaningful connections are valued and celebrated. Our students gain knowledge,
communicate effectively, develop exceptional character, and become responsible
citizens of a global society!
Playing tennis isn't just about physical skills; it's a creative mental activity that involves
planning, thinking, quick movements, and coordinating different parts of your body.
It also sharpens our concentration in the classroom which helps students to stay more
focused in class. As a result, we tend to feel better about ourselves, more confident,
and less anxious.
Being part of the club teaches us how to be
responsible, feel self-confidence, self-discipline, andhow to get along with others.
Get ready because the Marist Tennis Club is making
a comeback in September 2023 with other After
School Programs! We're super excited for the newschool year, all the fun, fantastic experiences andgrowth ahead!

MESSAGE FROM THE SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Jason Mejia

The Science Department would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Kong Ban Lee for his generous donation of a spectrophotometer.
The addition of this piece of equipment to our lab will allow students to conduct investigations into absorptions of specific wavelengths of lightand monitor structural impacts at the molecular level. This is quite useful for students who wish to conduct an Internal Assessment in organic
chemistry. We thank you for making our chemistry teacher extremely giddy.

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MESSAGE FROM THE MHS / NHS
Mio Ranni

We're thrilled to bring you the latest updates from the National Honor Society (NHS) as we embark on a new school year filledwith promise and opportunities for growth. Under the guidance of Mr. Lipp, five exceptional teachers have been appointed
to serve as the NHS Faculty Council, shaping the direction of our organization for the coming year. The esteemed council
members are Mr. Stang, Mr. Ranni, Mr. Deyss, Brother Allen, and Ms. Park.

On August 17th, the inaugural NHS Faculty Council meeting took place, marking the commencement of a year dedicated to fosteringscholarship, leadership, character, and service among the student body. With a meticulous selection process, nine outstanding students from
Grades 10 and 12 have been chosen to be candidates for the Marist Chapter of the National Honor Society. Let's celebrate the achievementsof these bright minds:
Grade 12: Kokona Kuroda
Grade 10: Minseo Eom, Yoonseo Eom, Haruhi Hayashi, Jaanya Javeri, Amritha Kamath, Michelle Ranni, Rushi Shah, Karen Tamayama
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to these individuals for successfully passing the rigorous screening process and joining the ranks of
the National Honor Society. Their dedication and commitment to excellence have paved the way for their participation in a series of leadershipprojects, where they will collaborate with existing NHS members to enhance their skills and contribute to the betterment of our community.
As the year progresses, these candidates will undergo comprehensive training, honing their abilities in scholarship, leadership, character
development, and service. We are excited to witness their growth and their eventual induction as full-fledged NHS members at the culminationof the academic year.
In this journey of growth and self-improvement, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Lipp and the esteemed faculty council
members for their unwavering leadership and support. Their dedication to guiding and nurturing the NHS is truly commendable and paves theway for a successful and impactful year ahead.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School

Marist Brothers Honor Society (MHS)As we eagerly embark on a new school year, we are excited
to share some remarkable endeavors and achievements thathave taken place at our school in August. The commitment
and enthusiasm demonstrated by our students continue toinspire us all.
To ensure a seamless and welcoming start to the academic
year, a total of 12 dedicated MHS students stepped up to
volunteer their time from August 16th and 17th. Their efforts
went a long way in preparing our school for a successful
launch. Through their hard work, lockers and walls received
a fresh touch, tables and chairs were meticulously organized,
and stationary sets were thoughtfully packed for ourelementary students. Despite the challenging hot and humid
weather, the students exhibited a remarkable spirit of unityand support, setting an inspiring tone for the upcoming year.

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On August 16th, a significant moment unfolded as eight MHS student leaders took the stage to present the importanceof "Building a Culture of Service Learning" to our esteemed faculty members. Their dynamic presentation outlined theirinnovative plans for the year ahead, emphasizing the value of service activities not only as a means of aiding those in needbut also as a catalyst for fostering a positive culture of compassion and unity. This call to action reflects the dedication anddetermination of our students to contribute meaningfully to our school community.

Continuing our commitment to inclusivity and support, August 18th saw six Grade 10 MHS students participating in theStudent Ambassador program, a heartwarming initiative designed to assist newcomers during the orientation. With over 70
new students joining us this year, our Student Ambassadors played an integral role in guiding and acclimating them. Theseambassadors represented MHS with pride, addressing questions from both parents and new students, offering a warm
welcome, and providing tours around the campus.

Marking a significant milestone on August 23rd, MHS held its inaugural general meeting outdoors on the field after
school. This meeting provided a platform for 99 enthusiastic students to officially join the organization this year. Led by our
dedicated president, Tsukika Yoneda, the meeting commenced with a warm welcome and a comprehensive overview of theorganization's rules and procedures. Each committee head had the opportunity to introduce themselves and present theirunique visions and innovative ideas for the upcoming school year.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International School​​ the midst of a scorching summer day, a heartwarming scene unfolded at Onohama Park. MHS students joined hands withIn
the Kobe Central Catholic Church of Holy Spirit to host a soup kitchen on August 26th. Despite the heat, the park echoed withlaughter, shared stories, and the sizzle of a Filipino favorite – Adobo, a savory chicken dish with garlic sauce.
Around 90 individuals were treated to this flavorful meal, all thanks to the collaborative efforts of the MHS Fundraising
Committee and the church members. Amidst the chopping of 25 kilograms of chicken, conversations flowed effortlessly inJapanese, English, and Tagalog – a true blend of cultures united by compassion.
A key figure in this heartwarming initiative was Brother Allen, who went beyond serving food. He acted as a bridge between
MHS and the Filipino community, embodying the spirit of connection and unity.
Despite the weather, this event was a testament to our community's resilience and commitment to brightening lives. As wereflect on this inspiring day, let's extend our gratitude to all who took part. Together, we've shown the power of kindness andthe impact of coming together for a greater cause.

In our pursuit of an engaging and impactful school year, we are excited to introduce the "Casual Friday Project," acollaborative effort between the MHS and the Student Council at MBIS. This innovative initiative brings together students from
Grades 1 to 12, along with teachers and staff, for casual attire Fridays once a month throughout the year. The project serves asa symbol of unity, supporting the dedicated activities of both MHS and Student Council.
Participation in the project is simple yet impactful – a nominal contribution of 100 yen will be collected during morning
homerooms on designated Fridays. Half of the funds collected will directly fuel MHS service initiatives, ranging from beachcleanups and forest conservation to farming projects and microplastic accessory endeavors. The remaining half will be directed
towards enriching Student Council activities, which include lively dance parties and Upper School orientations.

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We invite you to mark your calendars with the Casual Friday Project
dates provided below. As always, your support plays a pivotal role inmaking these initiatives a success. Should you have any questions or
require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Casual Friday Project Dates:•

September 1, 2023•

October 6, 2023•

November 10, 2023•

December 15, 2023 (Elementary Students - Sunday’s Finest theme
for Christmas Concert)•

January 12, 2024•

February 2, 2024•

March 15, 2024•

April 5, 2024•

May 3, 2024

Your unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of community
engagement within both the Marist Brothers Honor Society and Student
Council is greatly appreciated. Together, we embark on a year filledwith unity and purpose.
Service Learning Achievement:
Potato Project (Grade 10 Michelle Ranni)
Throughout the summer holiday, Michelle has been unwavering in her commitment to the potato project. She has been
actively engaged in visiting the "Sanno Kodomo Center" in Nishinari, Osaka, where she donated 5 kg of potatoes. The Sanno
Kodomo Center plays a vital role in supporting local children by providing a safe and nurturing environment after school andduring extended holidays. Additionally, the center prepares nutritious home-made meals and snacks for the children, making
Michelle's contribution all the more valuable. The staff at the center were
overjoyed to receive the donation, emphasizing the positive impact that even a
simple act of kindness can have on the community.

Michelle's vision for this year is both inspiring and ambitious. In the coming month of September, she plans to expand herefforts by planting an even larger quantity of potatoes. With her diligence and care, she aims to yield an estimated harvest ofaround 200 kg of potato in December. Moreover, Michelle's dedication extends beyond just regular potatoes. She has also
dedicated a significant portion of her time and resources to cultivating sweet potatoes, which were planted back in May. Her
hard work is set to pay off as she anticipates a harvest of approximately 100 kg of sweet potatoes in September. These sweet
potatoes will be lovingly donated to various organizations that focus on providing nourishment to individuals in need, further
demonstrating Michelle's commitment to making a difference.

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Newsletter | Marist Brothers International SchoolOcean Microplastic Accessory Project (Grade 12 Rina Okazaki)
Grade 12 student Rina Okazaki has embarked on an inspiring journey, launching a visionary personal project aimed ataddressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution in our oceans. As we gear up for the upcoming year, Rina, not only anesteemed member of our MHS family but also a committee leader, has taken it upon herself to make a meaningful difference.
Rina's dedication to combatting plastic pollution has been evident through her active involvement in beach clean-up initiatives.
As a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, she has consistently contributed her time and effort to cleaning up
our beaches, working tirelessly to remove harmful plastics from these precious ecosystems.
However, Rina's commitment doesn't stop there. During this past summer holiday, she embarked on a remarkable endeavor:
creating exquisite accessories using microplastics collected from Suma Beach. This innovative approach not only showcases
her creativity but also exemplifies her determination to transform a problem into a solution. By turning discarded microplastics
into beautiful accessories, Rina is ingeniously demonstrating how environmental consciousness can seamlessly blend withartistic expression.
What's truly remarkable about Rina's project is her vision for the future. She aspires to produce accessories of the highest
quality, worthy of being sold in stores. This way, she aims to not only raise awareness about plastic pollution but also engage
customers in a meaningful conversation about the detrimental impacts of this issue. Rina's project isn't just about crafting
stunning accessories; it's about crafting change, one accessory at a time.

Sustainable Branding and Product Design Project (Grade 12 Momoe Ishibashii)
Meet Momoe Ishibashi, a talented Grade 12 student with a passion for product design that goes beyond the classroom.
Looking ahead to her future studies, Momoe embarked on a unique project, exploring the realms of package and graphic
design, all while collaborating with Rina Okazaki's captivating accessory venture. This creative partnership not only fuels
Momoe's enthusiasm for product design but also aims to help Rina's accessories shine with eye-catching packaging andcompelling brand identity.
At the heart of Momoe's project lies the desire to merge sustainability with aesthetics. She's taken on the challenge of crafting
packages using sustainable materials that not only protect the environment but also captivate the senses. Inspired by the
traditional Japanese paper-making method, Momoe's exploration involves recycling paper to create exquisite accessory holders
that seamlessly blend tradition with innovation.
As the new school year dawns, Momoe is determined to dive deeper into her craft. To experiment with a range of package
designs for accessories, exploring what resonates most effectively with customers and deciphering the "why" behind theirchoices. Alongside this, she's set ambitious goals for the year, one of which is to finalize the logo and curate a compelling setof PR materials to showcase the allure of microplastic accessories, a truly eco-conscious endeavor.
The collaboration between Momoe and Rina promises to be a meaningful and exhilarating journey. Through their combined
efforts, they not only create stunning packaging and branding but also advocate for environmentally friendly practices. As theybreathe life into this partnership, their shared vision takes shape, inspiring both the student community and those with a keeneye for innovative and sustainable design.

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MESSAGE FROM THE LIBRARY
Elbert Shitamoto

Oh, the joy of checking out the perfect book from the MBIS Library! You eagerly turn each page with growing anticipation until
suddenly… Riiiiiiip!
“OH, NO, the page is torn! Mr. Shitamoto is going to send me to Library Jail!”
Never fear, students and parents! We understand that accidents happen, and we too are guilty of accidentally damaging
library books. We are actually well prepared for these accidental rips, tears, and minor book damage. In fact, we have a“superhero” from Germany whom we often call upon to repair books. Not only is this “superhero” strong and durable, but
this “superhero” is also “Age-resistant” (I wish I was age-resistant…) and “Acid-free.” Perhaps you have heard of our favorite
German superhero… FILMOPLAST P!
Unlike regular plastic tape, Filmoplast P does NOT turnyellow, Filmoplast P does NOT get brittle, Filmoplast P does
NOT age and fall off leaving nasty brown stains on pages!
A toast to Filmoplast P–may you continue to be the age-lesspaper mending wonder of the library world!
Danke schön, Filmoplast P, danke schön!
But that’s not all, my friends! In addition to Superhero
Filmoplast P, we have another superhero from the U.S. of
A… Acid-free Bind-Art adhesive–Powerful and Flexible!
Specially formulated from PVA (polyvinyl acetate), Superhero
Acid-free Bind-Art is famous for holding crumbling books
together and giving them a new lease on life.
Now that you know about our library super friends, please do
not worry if your beautiful children (or you) accidentally ripor tear a page in a library book. We will repair the damage
with the help of our acid-free, age-resistant super buddies!
In addition, if any library books start to fall apart due to
weak bindings, old age, etc.--never fear! We will attempt toresuscitate these elderly books with all of the super bookmending tools available in the library. If all else fails, we will
send these brave books to Kobe City Recycling Heaven where
they will be reincarnated and return to earth as tissue paperor (heaven forbid!) income tax forms.
Unfortunately, Superheroes Filmoplast P and Acid-free BindArt will NOT be able to rescue books that have been dropped
into water or champagne, books that have been run over by
Nissan Skylines while drifting on Mt. Rokko, books that havebeen chopped in half by Kyokushin Karate blackbelts, etc. Inthat case, I’m sorry to say that we will be asking for your help
in purchasing a new replacement book.
In the meantime, I will be experimenting with Filmoplast
P mending tape by applying it to my ancient face to see
if its age-resistant properties will transfer to my skin. If thisexperiment is successful, please look forward to reading
about the results in the September Monthly Newsletter!

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STAFFING UPDATESOver the summer months, we made new staffing appointments to improve our operational and student support services. We
are delighted to introduce you to our new team members.
Mr Masa Hanamura has been appointed as the Operations Manager for2023-2024 and will oversee property, transport, technology, cafeteria andsecurity. Born and raised in Nagoya, Japan, Mr. Masa Hanamura embarked
on a transformative journey to North America in search of an unconventional
educational path, distinct from the conventional Japanese university system.
This quest led him to earn a Bachelor's degree in International Area Studies
and a Master of Business Administration from University of Montana. Uponhis return to Japan, Mr. Hanamura delved into the dynamic realm of sales andmarketing, honing his skills over several years in the bustling metropolis ofTokyo. His professional journey took an intriguing turn when he dedicated
six rewarding years to serving as the Facilities Officer at the British School inTokyo. Two years ago, Masa, along with his wife, Stephanie Hanamura, whocurrently holds the position of Head of Lower School, and their cherishedchildren, Nadia and Aidan, relocated to the picturesque locale of Suma.
Inspired by his commitment to education and his diverse skill set, Masa
pursued a teaching qualification. Throughout the past two years, he has
proven to be an invaluable presence as a substitute teacher at Marist, offering
his insights and knowledge to enhance the school's learning environment. With a comprehensive background spanning
operational management, teaching, and a unique global outlook, positions him to embrace a spectrum of responsibilities,
further elevating the Marist experience. In his role overseeing various operational aspects, Masa's contributions are set toinfuse the Marist community with a wealth of knowledge, a cross-cultural perspective, and an unwavering dedication tofostering excellence.

School Photographer Capturing Magical Moments (Pictured left)
We are pleased to announce that Ms Yuka Moon will be providing photographic
services throughout the 2023-2024 academic year. After graduating from Kansai
Gaidai University, Yuka studied black and white photo development, film, and digital
photography at the Visual Arts College of Photography. While working at a major
photo studio, she has also worked as a school photographer for dozens of projects
a year. Now as a freelance photographer, she handles a wide range of newborn
photos and location shoots.

IT Professional Joins Our Team (Pictured right)
We are pleased to announce that Vaishali Chudgar has been appointed as an IT
Technician to support all areas of technology across the school with a special focus
on tech integration and end user experience. She is a Computer Engineer and an
IBM certified professional in IT Networking as well as experienced in the teaching
field of Computer Software languages.

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MARIST SUPPORTERS
The MBIS community has a long tradition of giving. Every year, through events such as Marist Cafe, students, parents, faculty, and friends, cometogether to raise funds for those in need in Japan and around the world. Our school has also greatly benefited from the generous support of others.
It was that support that enabled us to grow and, after the 1995 earthquake, rebuild. We are forever grateful for these generous contributions offunds, resources, and time. As a non-profit educational institution, every donation is reinvested into the growth of our students.
The gift of your time can be even more valuable than financial support. MBIS celebrates extensive volunteer involvement of its parents in the schoolcommunity. Their time, talent, energy, and enthusiasm bring vibrancy to every event, whether for a class outing, a holiday festivity, a library task,
coaching, or fundraising on behalf of the school. We also encourage parents to become actively involved in our Parent-Teacher Association (PTA),
or perhaps consider applying for a role on the Board of Trustees.
Please contact the Head of School, Mr. Shawn Hutchinson (hutchinsons@marist.ac.jp) if you are interested in volunteering at MBIS.
When you make an outright cash donation to MBIS, your contribution can be put to work immediately – either providing funding for current
programs or creating a reliable source of future income by expanding the school’s endowment. You are welcome to give a restricted donation(towards a specific resource or fundraising campaign) or an unrestricted donation (allowing the school to use the funds where they are most neededat the time).
Cash gifts are the simplest and easiest gifts you can make. Visit our website for more information.

MARIST PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

ACCREDITATION AND AUTHORISATION

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UPCOMING EVENTS
September 2023
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Monday, 11 September - Marist Alumni Mentorship Program
Friday, 15 - 16 September - HS Mid-Season Vollyball Tournament
Tuesday, 19 September - Parents as Learners
Friday, 22 - 23 September - HS Junior Vollyball Tournament
Friday, 29 - 30 September - MS End-of-Season Baseball Tournament
Friday, 29 - 30 September - MS End-of-Season Vollyball Tournament
Friday, 29 September - PTA Meetings				28

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