Palmetto students were provided a culturally rich opportunity on Wednesday, November 13, 2013, taking Japanese and exchange students from Japan under their wing.  The students gathered at the Media Center during fourth period for a welcome reception and presentation. A Kagoshima official and the Consul General of Japan were also present at the ceremony.

The 11 Palmetto students that were invited to Japan earlier this year by the Japanese government gave the presentation, and they were able to share their experiences in the East.

“We liked to know because we invited [them to Japan],” Consulate General of Japan, Mr. Masahiro Ogino said. “We wanted to know how they felt in Japan. I was very impressed by the presentation.”

In 2011, Japan experienced a huge earthquake, and the United States reached out to provide support. Resulting from Japan’s great gratitude, a new youth program was organized for young students from the both Japan and American, in order for them to get to know eachother.   More than 2,000 American students were invited to Japan.

“We are learning about the culture,” senior Dona Schwartz said. “In addition to helping the students show we care,”

During the ceremony, other educational festivities were provided. American and Japanese food was served so that the students could get a chance to taste each culture’s food. In addition, some Panther’s dressed up in costumes for a popular Japanese dance called the Soran Dance.

“It’s like a fisherman dance,” exchange student Tabira Mana said. “It’s from a long time ago. They celebrate all of the fish that they caught.”

Palmetto’s Japanese teacher, Ms. Mieko Avello, had her Japanese I students draw the three exchange students. The drawings were put up around the Media Center during the ceremony for decorations.

“Miami is the Kagoshima of Japan,” Ogino said. “I would like to say thank you very much for this presentation and the preparation of the school to receive Kagoshima delegation.”