Long gone are the days when the entire community could gather under one roof to celebrate the transitions and graduations of our children. Instead we get to have a dozen celebrations. Last year, I likened it to a patchwork quilt but I think it’s closer to a tapestry with stories woven into each other, threads from one event sewn into another. As one of the few folks who attended every one of these events (along with James and Gel), I get to see the interconnectedness of the..

After 14 remarkable years, Moka Kim graduates from Eucalyptus as the longest-attending student in MST’s history. Hundreds of classmates, six classrooms, dozens of teachers, and thousands of school days later, MST has been far more than a school to Moka—it has been the place where nearly her entire childhood unfolded. In many ways, her story is deeply woven into the story of MST itself. Over the years, Moka has imagined many futures for herself: singer/songwriter, fashion desi

Middle School adventurers discovered that some of the most powerful learning happens outdoors—through challenge, collaboration, and shared experiences in nature. From sunrise birdsong to late-night campfire celebrations, the Izu Oshima Odyssey was a journey of adventure, friendship, and moments that turned into lifelong memories. From volcano hikes and island-wide bike rides to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, Eucalyptus explorers embraced challenge, discovery, and unforge

The Willow Upper Elementary students recently transformed their classrooms into a vibrant showcase of scientific curiosity and hands-on discovery during this year’s Science Fair. Guided by their own questions and interests, students explored an impressive range of scientific concepts through experiments, engineering challenges, and design investigations. This year’s projects reflected the spirit of Montessori learning: children pursuing meaningful questions through research,

After creative brainstorming by the students, nominating finalists by the faculty and room parents, and finally conducting a community-wide vote, we are proud to announce the official mascot of our community: the Japanese Sparrowhawk. A female sparrowhawk in Arisugawa Park. Small yet powerful, swift yet precise, the Japanese Sparrowhawk is a remarkable bird native to Japan and found across East Asia. Though modest in size compared to larger birds of prey (about the size of a

What symbolizes our community? Is it the observant, quick thinking Sparrowhawk? The curiously exploring Flying Squirrel? Or is it the bold transformational Dragonfly? A bird, a mammal, and an insect — each deeply connected to Japan and each representing qualities we value at MST. More than just a symbol, a mascot can represent identity, belonging, and the values we hope to nurture in children. Cast your vote and be part of creating a new chapter in MST traditions. Join the c

This year’s Earth Day Celebration was a powerful example of what can happen when students take initiative and a community comes together in support of a shared purpose. Organized by the MST HEAL students and the faculty and parent sustainability groups, the after-school event transformed the Garden, Art Room, and MPR into vibrant spaces filled with creativity, learning, and action for the environment. Students led many aspects of the celebration, preparing vegan snacks, organ

After 40 intense rounds and an exciting final duel, wordslinger Kano captured this year’s MST Spelling Bee title in front of a cheering crowd of Sunshine and Lower Elementary students. The competition grew more intense with each passing round, eventually leading to an unforgettable championship battle between Willow wordsmiths Kano and Kaya. The two finalists went head-to-head for 11 rounds, demonstrating impressive focus and resilience under pressure. Otto (Maple) also deliv

This year’s Sakura Medal Book Bowl at Makuhari International School brought together enthusiastic young readers from schools across the region for a day filled with teamwork, friendly competition, and a shared love of books. Representing MST were 11 students from the Willow class, who arrived ready for the challenge after months of dedicated reading. Students began exploring the Sakura Medal book selections early in the school year, with many reading all 20 nominated titles.