Nationality: German

Why did you choose YIS?

Our children have been attending international schools their whole student lives, and other schools were not as open-minded and international enough for our idea on how a school should educate our daughters.

How important was selecting an IB school, and what specifically appeals to you about the IB Program?

When schooling became a topic, we had to make a decision between the German schooling system and the IB system. Very quickly, my husband and I agreed that the way we had experienced school was not ideal, and applied for the IB system instead. Having had a chance to work at the International School in Amsterdam, I was quickly reassured that we made the right decision.

I love the fact that the IB system sees each and every student as an individual, enabling customized learning and focusing on each student's strengths and needs by challenging them to discover themselves and the world around them. I my opinion, this inspires the students to become lifelong learners and inquirers.

Please describe a memorable moment from your time at YIS and how that has had an impact on you and your family?

There have been many memorable moments we have collected over nearly four years at YIS. I would say the transition phase when we arrived sticks to us as the best experience. While one of our daughters had a very rough transition and needed a lot of support, we felt the back up from the teachers and counselors at YIS from the first minute. This phase had an impact on the whole family and could have easily turned into a long and messy problem for all four of us, but it didn’t. Thankfully we were guided and supported in every possible way outside of school and during school times. This all seems like forever ago, but we are still truly thankful for all the help provided to us at that challenging time in our life.

What do your children enjoy the most about learning at YIS?

When I asked them, the answer came quickly - the community and the genuine interest in their person. YIS has a family flair that is special. They also love the fact that they are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and feel able to do so in a safe environment, like playing a new team sport. It also gives both our daughters a chance to be part of changing the world knowing that every little help is a step into the right direction. They have been fortunate to participate in activities such as the Chiku Center, Global Climate Strike, Pride Parade and many more opportunities provided by YIS. For us as parents, it is a pleasure to witness how confident our daughters are that their actions will make our world a better place.

Do you participate in activities or get together with other YIS parents? If so, can you tell us about some of the things you’ve enjoyed?

I have enjoyed all the cultural programs offered from the PTSA and the ICJC in the past. I am also enjoying the various cooking classes offered on a monthly basis. The different workshops offered by our PTSA and parents are always interesting and I have learned many new skills and found new hobbies. Offering yoga to the YIS community has been something I am super passionate about since I arrived at the school, and am ever so grateful for the many wonderful students I have met this way and the friendships formed.

Do you live in Tokyo or Yokohama? How is the commute for your children?

Yokohama. They walk to school!

What sort of advice would you give to other parents who are considering YIS?

Stop looking around make an appointment for a tour around school and you won’t be disappointed.

What excites you most about the new YIS campus?

First of all, the upgrade the athletic department will receive, the open space, the eco friendly campus, and the idea of having all the programs on one campus.