This past Thursday, the 6th grade students participated in the annual walkathon along the Tama River, an event designed to raise funds and promote awareness for humanitarian causes. This year, all proceeds will be donated to SEEDS Asia, which will direct the funds to support communities in Myanmar affected by a recent earthquake. The walkathon is a long-standing initiative that combines physical activity with social responsibility, encouraging students to engage in meaningful service beyond the classroom.
The event was organized by Mr. Antal and Mr. Southall ranging from communication with families, collecting sponsorship funds, and forwarding donations. Students are responsible for gathering sponsorships from family members, friends, and even donating themselves. The route begins at the school and continued through Futako-Tamagawa Rise, and follows the Tama River’s path in the direction of Haneda Airport. Participants cross the Maruko Bridge and return to the opposite side of the river, completing a loop back to school. The total distance is 13.5 kilometers and took most of the school day, from approximately 9:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
The walkathon is designed to promote the school’s core values in action. “We hope students demonstrate respect for nature, responsibility in collecting sponsorships, integrity in their conduct, compassion for those affected by the earthquake, courage to complete the 13.5 kilometers, and harmony with one another throughout the event,” said Mr. Southall These values, he added, are “at the heart of what we aim to teach—this walk is one way to put them into practice.”
Originally created during the COVID-19 pandemic, the walkathon has grown into a meaningful tradition that continues to bring closer students around a shared goal. With each step, participants not only raise money but also develop important school core values.
