Marlene

Marlene

Parent

Nationality: Canadian

Why did you choose YIS?

We had always wanted to come to Japan as a family and when a job opportunity came up, it was a very easy decision. YIS has a great reputation and it was important to us to provide our two daughters with a quality education and a supportive community. 


What is it about the learning program at YIS that you feel makes it unique?

I like that the learning programme challenges the students in a thoughtful manner and at the same time encourages them to incorporate their own perspectives, as it applies to each discipline.
 

Please describe a memorable moment from your time at YIS and how that has had an impact on you and your family?

We came to YIS in the middle of the COVID pandemic and although my kids started their schooling online, their classmates readily welcomed them and they were able to start building friendships right away. What's most important to us is that our kids are happy, and the welcoming community at YIS had a positive impact on us from the start.
 

What does your child(ren) enjoy the most about learning at YIS?

The ability to create and collaborate with their peers, and the inspiring spaces throughout the school.
 

Do you participate in activities or get together with other YIS parents? If so, can you tell us about some of the things you’ve enjoyed?

With the exception of one year, I have been a class parent since we came to YIS. The opportunity to engage with other parents has been invaluable. I am also the PTSA Service Learning Liaison Coordinator, my role is to bridge the gap between parents and students, where parents can learn about and lend their support to the many local and global community initiatives that the students are involved in.
 

Do you live in Tokyo or Yokohama? How is the commute for your child(ren)?

We live in Yokohama about 5 minutes away from the school, so it's very convenient.


What sort of advice would you give to other parents who are considering YIS?

Everyone has unique needs, but take the time to explore the campus and get to know the staff to find out if YIS for you. The teaching staff all work very hard to provide our students with a solid education and there are numerous extracurricular activities to suit diverse interests. For parents, it's easy to connect with the community, whether it be as a class parent or through different activities that are offered throughout the year.


What excites you most about the YIS campus?

It's such a beautiful campus that has been very thoughtfully designed. It's so bright, and there are so many spaces for students to congregate and learn in. It almost makes me wish I was a student again, I'm so happy that my kids are able to have this experience.