As the 2025–2026 school year comes to an end, several important events stood out both at St. Mary’s International School and around Japan. Within the school community, student participation in academic activities such as Math Field Day and reading many books like 1984 and the Catcher in the Rye and the expansion of technology through artificial intelligence discussions reflected the school’s commitment to learning and innovation. Outside of school, Japan continued to experience major social and economic changes, including a growing foreign population, rising costs of living, and new immigration policies. Together, these developments shaped the experiences of students and families throughout the year.
Other stories examined the growing influence of artificial intelligence in international schools and how technology is changing the way students learn. Reporting on rising tuition costs and the impact of the weakening yen also explored challenges facing many international school families. These stories were important because they directly affected the daily lives of students, parents, and teachers while highlighting both opportunities and challenges within the school community. Readers could learn more through The Diplomat articles covering these titled KPASS Math Field Day, the rise of AI in international schools, and the effects of economic pressures on international education. Lastly, there were also articles on the lack of sleep in IB schools like St Mary’s.
Beyond the school gates, several developments in Japan were especially significant. One of the most notable trends was the continued growth of Japan’s foreign population, reflecting the country’s efforts to address labor shortages and become more internationally connected. Changes to immigration policies also attracted attention because of their potential impact on students, families, and workers from overseas. Economic concerns remained important throughout the year as the weak yen and rising energy costs affected household budgets across the country. These issues matter because they influence the future direction of Japanese society and affect the lives of many members of the St. Mary’s community. Looking back, the year demonstrated how local school events and national developments are closely connected, making it an exciting and meaningful year to report on as a student journalist.
The Importance of Healthy Sleep Hygiene for St. Mary’s IB Students
