Yesterday was our Farewell Ceremony (Soubetsushiki) for the teachers and staff who are retiring or being transferred. Many students and alumni visited to cheer, greet, and bid farewell to their former teachers. It was very heartwarming to witness the event and see the enduring love and respect they have for their teachers.
It is customary to give presents to the departing teachers, and they, in turn, gave small omiyages to those of us who are staying. The students lined up on both sides, handing their gifts to the teachers as they walked through. Some students were crying and sad to know they wouldn't see their teachers in their classrooms come April, while others were just very happy to see their beloved teachers again after many years.
After the ceremony, we cleaned the staff room and rearranged our tables for the new school year. I was amazed to discover that at this school, teachers follow their students as they progress through grades. So, if you teach the first-year students, you will continue to be their teacher in the second and third years. I’m not sure if this is the case in all Japanese schools or if it's unique to Osawa.
In the evening, we had the farewell party (Soubetsukai) at Koyo Grand Hotel. The hotel's name perfectly described the venue—it was truly grand. The food was amazing, drinks were served, and the program began on a happy note. I enjoyed talking with the teachers and taking pictures with them. The teachers were given flowers and possibly monetary gifts. I could only understand bits of their speeches, but I was happy to witness this bittersweet moment. It made me miss my co-teachers back home.
After the farewell party, there was a second party! It was a drink-all-you-can event. I don't really drink, but I tried a glass of beer and then switched to fruit juice and soda. My father was a heavy drinker, so I never really liked alcohol or its smell. I do drink occasionally, but only very small amounts at school parties. I still prefer my coffee, hot cocoa, and fruit smoothies. 🤭
I want to remember this moment in the future and look back on my first ever Soubetsushiki and Soubetsukai.
