Johnson High School and Principal John Mehlbrech recently hosted the first orientation of the TOMODACHI U.S.—Japan Youth Exchange Program 2018 on April 20. This program is a two-way exchange program promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity among Japanese and American high school students. Six high schools students were recruited from San Antonio area high schools. After completing an essay and going through an interview process, the following students were selected from North East ISD high schools:
- Lauren Loveless, Johnson High School
- Victoria Wendell, Churchill High School
- Morrigan Gignac, Madison High School
- Michael Morse, Roosevelt High School
Yuka Kato, Japanese instructor at Johnson and Churchill, will serve as the chaperon to accompany the students to Japan. This is a fully funded trip through the National Association of Japan-America Societies. The selected students will go to Kumamoto, Japan, the sister city of San Antonio, from July 5-14. They will stay with Japanese host families, visit a local high school, attend local events, and make a courtesy visit to the mayor of Kumamoto.
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for these respective students who will be able to learn more of the Japanese language and culture through a real life experience. Please congratulate these students on their achievements.
