Tokorozawa High School Students Visit Mayor Following Successful Decatur Exchange Program
Tokorozawa City Hall, August 26, 2025 – A group of accomplished high school students from Tokorozawa recently paid a courtesy visit to Mayor Masaru Miyamoto, sharing their enriching experiences from a cultural and educational exchange program in Decatur, Illinois, USA. The visit, held on August 26th, provided an opportunity for the students to report on their growth and learnings during their time abroad.
The exchange program, a significant initiative aimed at fostering international understanding and personal development among Tokorozawa’s youth, saw these bright students immerse themselves in the vibrant community of Decatur. During their stay, they engaged in a variety of activities designed to broaden their perspectives and enhance their global awareness.
Students had the unique opportunity to experience American daily life firsthand, living with host families and attending local schools. This immersive approach allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of different customs, values, and educational systems. They actively participated in classroom discussions, collaborated on projects with their American peers, and gained valuable insights into diverse academic approaches.
Beyond the academic sphere, the Tokorozawa students actively represented their city and country. They shared aspects of Japanese culture, including language, traditions, and local customs, with their Decatur counterparts. This cultural exchange was met with great enthusiasm, fostering mutual respect and appreciation between the two communities. The students also had the chance to explore the history and landmarks of Decatur, further enriching their understanding of their host city.
Mayor Miyamoto expressed his sincere congratulations to the students for their successful participation in the exchange program and commended them for their proactive engagement and positive representation of Tokorozawa. He emphasized the importance of such international experiences in shaping well-rounded individuals and fostering global citizenship. The Mayor also highlighted the strong sister-city relationship between Tokorozawa and Decatur, which continues to be a cornerstone for mutual learning and collaboration.
The students, in turn, shared their personal reflections and the significant impact the program had on their personal growth. They spoke of newfound confidence, improved communication skills, and a broader worldview. The experience has undoubtedly equipped them with valuable life skills and a deeper appreciation for international relations.
This successful exchange program underscores Tokorozawa City’s commitment to providing its young citizens with opportunities for global engagement and personal development. The insights and experiences gained by these students are expected to inspire future generations and further strengthen the ties between Tokorozawa and its international partners. The city looks forward to continued success in similar initiatives that promote understanding and cooperation on a global scale.
ディケイターで成長、所沢の高校生が市長表敬訪問（8月26日発表）
AI has delivered the news.
The answer to the following question is obtained from Google Gemini.
所沢市 published ‘ディケイターで成長、所沢の高校生が市長表敬訪問（8月26日発表）’ at 2025-08-26 03:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.