Hello everyone,

We’re about one month into the new school year now, and for many of you, things are probably starting to feel normal again. New classes, new teachers, new routines… it takes some time, but by now you’re likely getting used to it. And just as things settle down, we have something very different coming up… the school festival!

“Wakaba” means “young leaves,” which feels like a good name for this time of year. Everything is still new, still growing, and maybe not perfect yet, but that’s exactly what makes it interesting.

The festival is always one of the most enjoyable parts of the year. Classes stop feeling like “classes,” and suddenly everyone is working together on something a bit more creative (and sometimes a bit chaotic).

For the younger classes, that usually means cooking. This sounds simple, but it often turns into a mix of teamwork, last-minute problem solving, and a little bit of confusion. Still, those are usually the moments people remember the most.

For the senior students, the big event is the class dance. Performing on stage in front of a crowd is not easy, but it’s something you only get to do a few times in your life. It’s also one of the rare chances to see your homeroom teacher doing something completely different from a normal lesson.

Another nice part of the festival is seeing graduates come back. You might not notice it at first, but former students often visit during this time. It’s a good reminder that high school goes by faster than you think, and these kinds of events are the ones people remember later.

Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind. With all the food around, it’s very easy to get carried away. A little is great. A lot… you might regret later.

Also, there will be an opportunity for blood donation. It’s not for everyone, but it’s something worth thinking about. Even being aware of it is a small step toward helping others.

More than anything, the school festival is a chance to spend time with your classmates in a different way. You’ll probably learn things about each other that you wouldn’t learn in a normal class. So enjoy it! Try something new, help your classmates, and make it a good memory.