For the first time this past summer, Menlo School reciprocated a visit to the prestigious Doshisha International School in Kyoto, Japan, which has sent student and faculty visitors to Menlo over each of the last three years. Chaperoned by Middle School Assistant Director and Japanese teacher Mima Takemoto, senior Lucy and freshman Scott visited Doshisha, attended classes and lived with host families. Lucy and Scott were tremendous ambassadors, speaking and presenting in Japanese in front of the entire student body.

The Menlo students were graciously welcomed, as well. For instance, the Doshisha cheerleading squad performed for Lucy and Scott a cheerleading routine that featured the precise formation and cheering of the letters M-E-N-L-O. Mima Takemoto, Upper School Director John Schafer and Global Programs and Studies Coordinator Peter Brown met with Doshisha’s administrators and staff to formalize what has become a mutually beneficial relationship. Both schools are enthusiastic about this partnership and hope that it continues for a long time to come.