On the morning of October 8, the last day of the first semester, I heard excited voices coming from the school corridor as students arrived.

I had seen parents preparing something in the corridor the day before, so I had a pretty good idea what all the excitement was about. Still, I was curious and decided to go and take a look for myself.

There, I found countless messages of appreciation written by our students for their teachers and school staff, displayed across the corridor like stars twinkling in the night sky.

“Thank you for always helping us learn.” “Thank you for driving our school bus.” Each message was simple and brief, yet filled with genuine gratitude. As I read them, I couldn’t help but feel a warmth in my heart.

This year, the celebration went beyond displaying messages. During the first-semester closing ceremony, representatives of our parents’ association also took the opportunity to share an important message with our students:

“Behind your growth are many people who support you, often in ways you may not even notice.”

I believe this is something we should all take to heart. None of us grows or learns entirely on our own. Every day, we are supported by so many people—our teachers, the staff who keep our school running, our families, and members of our community. Recognizing their contributions and learning to express gratitude are important lessons for our students.

This was the third year of this wonderful initiative, and as Principal, I am truly grateful that our parents have continued to organize it entirely on their own.

I am sure the heartfelt messages from our students meant a great deal to our teachers and staff. Working in a school brings its share of challenges and difficult moments. But sometimes, a simple “thank you” from a student is all it takes to lift our spirits and give us the energy to keep going.

What I value most about this initiative is the way it brings our school community closer together. It gives students, parents, teachers, and staff an opportunity to share their appreciation for one another and reminds us of the warm connections that make AMICUS such a special place.

To all the parents who took the time to plan and prepare this wonderful celebration, and to all the students who wrote such thoughtful messages, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks.

Thank you so very much!

Ken Oshiro, Headmaster