Starting to end

I think today was the start of the end. Of school. Relax, it's nothing too heavy.

The 3nensei, or 9th graders, are approaching the end of their junior high school careers. In less than a month, they will have graduated, found out where they're going to high school (if they're going), and move on to the next adventure. For at least two weeks, there will be a large gap in each of my schools. At one school, Takae, the 3nensei make up about 25% of the student body (a total of nine grades).

So today, at Arume, we had a ３年生送る会, or a 3nensei send-off. Instead of 5th and 6th period, the junior high school students (by grade) and one team of teachers participated in exhibition matches of basketball, the sport of choice here in Higashi (despite the small size of the schools, the gymnasiums are as large as ever, which is a blessing). It was fun! And I'm totally out of shape! At least basketball shape.

After the games, a few of the 1 and 2nensei students made small speeches to the 3nensei, thanking them for their leadership and wishing them the best in the coming weeks. It was great to see. But the finale, a complete surprise to all, was the teacher's band performance. Once again, I was blown away by the effort that everyone was putting in to sending these kids off with best wishes. The moment was one of those that I look back to and think, "Yeah, this is perfect."

Since Higashi doesn't have a high school, all of the students will be attending elsewhere - some in Nago, some further south as far as Okinawa City. Those going to schools in Nago may still live in Higashi and commute with parents or friends, but for those moving farther, it may be their first time living by themselves. Sometimes, students find dormitory housing or their own apartments, and in some cases the whole family moves, depending on many factors, I'm sure.

Sometimes I forget that the 3nensei are only 15; they don't seem that young. But their graduating reminds me of how quickly it's all going. I'm here for another year, that's definite (even got the official word from the BOE!). And it's good to have these landmark occasions, reminding me to make sure I get the most out of it. After Okinawa, I want to be completely happy with whatever I choose, no regrets.