On a beautiful spring day in April, we held YUAI School’s entrance ceremony at the Tokyo Camii — a place that always feels special, but even more so when filled with the smiles of our students and families.

This year marks the 9th academic year since YUAI began. It’s hard to believe how quickly time has flown. What made this year a little different was that, for the first time, we started the school year without any high school students. Seeing them graduate last year was such a proud moment — but we definitely felt their absence.

Still, as we welcomed new faces and embraced returning ones, the joy in the room reminded us why we do what we do. There’s something truly moving about watching children take their first steps into a new school year — full of hope, a little nervousness, and so much potential.

It wasn’t a big or flashy ceremony, but it was full of heart. We laughed, we teared up (just a little!), and we prayed together for another good year.

To all our students, teachers, and families — welcome back. And to those just joining us — welcome home. Here’s to a year of learning, growing, and being together.