Special Feature: Staff Introduction
Barry Mernin Principal
Responsibility: Mp3 Natioanlity: US
1. Please tell me your career.
I am from the United States.I have a Master's degree in Mathematics Instruction from Walden University and received a leadership certificate from the Principal Training Centre.I have taught at Montgomery County Public School (1990), Singapore American School (2001), Canadian Academy. in Kobe, Japan (2003). Hong Kong International School (2009) and International Academy Amman (2014) in Jordan. He has worked at the Hokkaido International School Niseko for 3 years.
I am from the United States.I have a Master's degree in Mathematics Instruction from Walden University and received a leadership certificate from the Principal Training Centre.I have taught at Montgomery County Public School (1990), Singapore American School (2001), Canadian Academy. in Kobe, Japan (2003). Hong Kong International School (2009) and International Academy Amman (2014) in Jordan. He has worked at the Hokkaido International School Niseko for 3 years.
2. Please tell me the differences between Japanese school education and the characteristics of this school.
It is not that our schools are superior to Japanese schools or not, we have different educational policies. I respect the Japanese educational system. We are satisfied with Niseko and I'm glad that I can work here. For this is because cultural exchanges with local schools and contacts with townspeople are more concentrated than other international schools. Also, there is a sense of trust in the support of the Niseko town office including the town mayor. We can proceed with the operation of the school with confidence.
3. Message to Niseko town residents.
One thing to say about this school is that we can learn in nature, Niseko is very mentally, physically, emotionally, healthy.I would like to make this school one of the more refined international elementary schools in all of Japan.This is my hope , but in the future, I wish to make this school a zero-emissions facility that does not require energy consumption.It is a difficult thing, but I think that it is time to act.I believe that it will lead to children's environmental education . Please visit us anytime. Cheer
It is not that our schools are superior to Japanese schools or not, we have different educational policies. I respect the Japanese educational system. We are satisfied with Niseko and I'm glad that I can work here. For this is because cultural exchanges with local schools and contacts with townspeople are more concentrated than other international schools. Also, there is a sense of trust in the support of the Niseko town office including the town mayor. We can proceed with the operation of the school with confidence.
3. Message to Niseko town residents.
One thing to say about this school is that we can learn in nature, Niseko is very mentally, physically, emotionally, healthy.I would like to make this school one of the more refined international elementary schools in all of Japan.This is my hope , but in the future, I wish to make this school a zero-emissions facility that does not require energy consumption.It is a difficult thing, but I think that it is time to act.I believe that it will lead to children's environmental education . Please visit us anytime. Cheer
1. Tell me about your career history
It is not that our schools are superior to Japanese schools or not, we have different educational policies. I respect the Japanese educational system. We are satisfied with Niseko and I'm glad that I can work here. For this is because cultural exchanges with local schools and contacts with townspeople are more concentrated than other international schools. Also, there is a sense of trust in the support of the Niseko town office including the town mayor. We can proceed with the operation of the school with confidence.
It is not that our schools are superior to Japanese schools or not, we have different educational policies. I respect the Japanese educational system. We are satisfied with Niseko and I'm glad that I can work here. For this is because cultural exchanges with local schools and contacts with townspeople are more concentrated than other international schools. Also, there is a sense of trust in the support of the Niseko town office including the town mayor. We can proceed with the operation of the school with confidence.
Sports festival with HIS Sapporo school
2. Can you tell me a bit about the differences between a Japanese school education and what is offered here?
It is not that our schools are superior to Japanese schools or not, we have different educational policies. I respect the Japanese educational system.
We are satisfied with Niseko and I'm glad that I can work here. For this is because cultural exchanges with local schools and contacts with townspeople are more concentrated than other international schools. Also, there is a sense of trust in the support of the Niseko town office including the town mayor. We can proceed with the operation of the school with confidence.
3. Have you anything you would like to say to the people of Niseko?
One thing to say about this school is that we can learn in nature, Niseko is very mentally, physically, emotionally, healthy. I would like to make this school one of the more refined international elementary schools in all of Japan.
This is my hope, but in the future, I wish to make this school a zero-emissions facility that does not require energy consumption. It is a difficult thing, but I think that it is time to act. I believe that it will lead to children's environmental education. Please visit us anytime. Cheer
It is not that our schools are superior to Japanese schools or not, we have different educational policies. I respect the Japanese educational system.
We are satisfied with Niseko and I'm glad that I can work here. For this is because cultural exchanges with local schools and contacts with townspeople are more concentrated than other international schools. Also, there is a sense of trust in the support of the Niseko town office including the town mayor. We can proceed with the operation of the school with confidence.
3. Have you anything you would like to say to the people of Niseko?
One thing to say about this school is that we can learn in nature, Niseko is very mentally, physically, emotionally, healthy. I would like to make this school one of the more refined international elementary schools in all of Japan.
This is my hope, but in the future, I wish to make this school a zero-emissions facility that does not require energy consumption. It is a difficult thing, but I think that it is time to act. I believe that it will lead to children's environmental education. Please visit us anytime. Cheer
Merek Sinclair Elementary school teacher
Responsibility: Mp 1 Nationality: Australia
1. Career
I am from South Australia. As my older brother studied abroad, I went to Kansai Gaidai University for a year (2000). After graduating from Adorade University Graduate School, he worked as a Japanese assistant in the JET program called MIC and worked for three years in Sapporo. After that, his hobby is high, and as a professional of ballroom dance, he defines competitions and leaders. After an international school Sapporo school, now 6 years in Niseko.
2. What is the significance of the international school in Niseko town?
As foreigners immigrate this much, I think that having an international school in this area is very important.
I am from South Australia. As my older brother studied abroad, I went to Kansai Gaidai University for a year (2000). After graduating from Adorade University Graduate School, he worked as a Japanese assistant in the JET program called MIC and worked for three years in Sapporo. After that, his hobby is high, and as a professional of ballroom dance, he defines competitions and leaders. After an international school Sapporo school, now 6 years in Niseko.
2. What is the significance of the international school in Niseko town?
As foreigners immigrate this much, I think that having an international school in this area is very important.
3. Your daughter is attending an international school. What is the reason for it?
In other words, I would like to give my daughter education with a long-term perspective in English. In the short term, we also have the option of attending Niseko elementary school. However, as I experienced my daughter wants to go on to university in Australia in the future, I would like you to communicate with people in other countries as well. In order to acquire academic English ability in the future, I think that it is best to receive education at the international school.
4. What is the goodness of working in Niseko?
It is that ON and OFF are clear. As soon as work ends, there is private. Going to the city, you will be shaken for a crowded train for dozens of minutes, but here it is 5 minutes by car to the house and 15 minutes by ski resort.
In other words, I would like to give my daughter education with a long-term perspective in English. In the short term, we also have the option of attending Niseko elementary school. However, as I experienced my daughter wants to go on to university in Australia in the future, I would like you to communicate with people in other countries as well. In order to acquire academic English ability in the future, I think that it is best to receive education at the international school.
4. What is the goodness of working in Niseko?
It is that ON and OFF are clear. As soon as work ends, there is private. Going to the city, you will be shaken for a crowded train for dozens of minutes, but here it is 5 minutes by car to the house and 15 minutes by ski resort.
1. Can you tell me a bit about your career up to now?
I am from South Australia. As my older brother studied abroad, I went to Kansai Gaidai University for a year (2000). After graduating from Adelaide University Graduate School, I worked as a Japanese assistant in the JET program called MIC and worked for three years in Sapporo. After that, he focused more on his hobbies, becoming a professional of ballroom dancer, with competitions becoming part of his livelihood. After working in the Sapporo International School for one year, he has been working in Niseko for 6 years.
2. What is the significance to having an International School in Niseko
As so many foreigners are coming into the region, I feel it is important to have this kind of school here.
I am from South Australia. As my older brother studied abroad, I went to Kansai Gaidai University for a year (2000). After graduating from Adelaide University Graduate School, I worked as a Japanese assistant in the JET program called MIC and worked for three years in Sapporo. After that, he focused more on his hobbies, becoming a professional of ballroom dancer, with competitions becoming part of his livelihood. After working in the Sapporo International School for one year, he has been working in Niseko for 6 years.
2. What is the significance to having an International School in Niseko
As so many foreigners are coming into the region, I feel it is important to have this kind of school here.
3. Your daughter is attending an international school. May I ask as to why?
In a long term sense I would like to give my daughter a more concrete education in English. Though we do also have the short term option of choosing Niseko Elementary, we want to give her the option of being able to study at an Australian university in the future as well as the ability to communicate with people from all over the world. Also, to give her a better chance at grasping academic English I feel it is better she is in an International School.
4. What are the good points of working in Niseko?
In a long term sense I would like to give my daughter a more concrete education in English. Though we do also have the short term option of choosing Niseko Elementary, we want to give her the option of being able to study at an Australian university in the future as well as the ability to communicate with people from all over the world. Also, to give her a better chance at grasping academic English I feel it is better she is in an International School.
In a long term sense I would like to give my daughter a more concrete education in English. Though we do also have the short term option of choosing Niseko Elementary, we want to give her the option of being able to study at an Australian university in the future as well as the ability to communicate with people from all over the world. Also, to give her a better chance at grasping academic English I feel it is better she is in an International School.
4. What are the good points of working in Niseko?
In a long term sense I would like to give my daughter a more concrete education in English. Though we do also have the short term option of choosing Niseko Elementary, we want to give her the option of being able to study at an Australian university in the future as well as the ability to communicate with people from all over the world. Also, to give her a better chance at grasping academic English I feel it is better she is in an International School.
Lola Lai
Responsibility: EY, MP 1 & MP3 Music Teacher
Nationality: Singapore Hobbies: Snowboarding, Scuba diving
1. Career
I've always wanted to live aboard and work with children and adults from a diversity of cultures.Japan has always been in the back of my head and after teaching and living in the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and Istanbul, I knew without a doubt that I was ready to move to the country, away from the metropolitan cities.Since Hokkaido is known for its beautiful landscapes and decadent food, I tried to apply to the HIS, which happened to be only Hokkaido International School.
What do you think it is that makes this school here in Niseko unique?
Niseko, in my opinion has an incredibly unique dynamic of it's own. So when you are a child growing up in such a culturally diverse environment like Niseko we are, hopefully, providing an education that can help students thrive as ever evolving global citizens.
HIS continue to embrace and advocate the values and significance of Reggio Emilia in their pedagogies especially in the Early Years.
I've always wanted to live aboard and work with children and adults from a diversity of cultures.Japan has always been in the back of my head and after teaching and living in the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and Istanbul, I knew without a doubt that I was ready to move to the country, away from the metropolitan cities.Since Hokkaido is known for its beautiful landscapes and decadent food, I tried to apply to the HIS, which happened to be only Hokkaido International School.
What do you think it is that makes this school here in Niseko unique?
Niseko, in my opinion has an incredibly unique dynamic of it's own. So when you are a child growing up in such a culturally diverse environment like Niseko we are, hopefully, providing an education that can help students thrive as ever evolving global citizens.
HIS continue to embrace and advocate the values and significance of Reggio Emilia in their pedagogies especially in the Early Years.
1. Can you tell me a bit about your career up to now?
After graduating from the International Infant Development Center in Singapore, I worked at the Canadian International School (Singapore), as well as EtonHouse International School (Cambodia) and Keystone International School (Turkey). I have been working at HIS for about 3 years.
I've always wanted to live abroad and work with children and adults from a diversity of cultures. Japan has always been in the back of my head and after teaching and living in the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and Istanbul, I knew without a doubt that I was ready to move to a the country, away from metropolitan cities. Since Hokkaido is known for its beautiful landscapes and decadent food, I tries to apply to the HIS.
2. What do you think it is that makes this school here in Niseko unique?
Niseko, in my opinion has an incredibly unique dynamic of it's own. So when you are a child growing up in such a culturally diverse environment like Niseko we are, hopefully, providing an education that can help students thrive as ever evolving global citizens.
HIS continue to embrace and advocate the values and significance of *Reggio Emilia in their pedagogies especially in the Early Years.
(*) The "Reggio Emilia Approach" refers to the Early Childhood Education Act originating from Reggio Emilia, Italy. It aims to cultivate expressive ability, communication skills, inquiring minds, and the ability to think, etc. while treating each student in an individual manner. In 1991, the school was listed in the top 10 best schools in the world making it world famous.
After graduating from the International Infant Development Center in Singapore, I worked at the Canadian International School (Singapore), as well as EtonHouse International School (Cambodia) and Keystone International School (Turkey). I have been working at HIS for about 3 years.
I've always wanted to live abroad and work with children and adults from a diversity of cultures. Japan has always been in the back of my head and after teaching and living in the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and Istanbul, I knew without a doubt that I was ready to move to a the country, away from metropolitan cities. Since Hokkaido is known for its beautiful landscapes and decadent food, I tries to apply to the HIS.
2. What do you think it is that makes this school here in Niseko unique?
Niseko, in my opinion has an incredibly unique dynamic of it's own. So when you are a child growing up in such a culturally diverse environment like Niseko we are, hopefully, providing an education that can help students thrive as ever evolving global citizens.
HIS continue to embrace and advocate the values and significance of *Reggio Emilia in their pedagogies especially in the Early Years.
(*) The "Reggio Emilia Approach" refers to the Early Childhood Education Act originating from Reggio Emilia, Italy. It aims to cultivate expressive ability, communication skills, inquiring minds, and the ability to think, etc. while treating each student in an individual manner. In 1991, the school was listed in the top 10 best schools in the world making it world famous.
Yuuki Suzuki (Yuki Suzuki) Responsibility: Assistant Principal Clerk
1. Please tell me the history of the teacher taking office at this school.
When HIS Niseko was opened, I had been in China and been interested in having my daughter keep to be involved in an international curriculum.At the timing to return to Japan in 2014, we chose HIS Niseko.I was one of parents first, then taught Japanese class about 2 years.My daughter has graduated from HIS Niseko and I'm working as an administrative assistant now.
When HIS Niseko was opened, I had been in China and been interested in having my daughter keep to be involved in an international curriculum.At the timing to return to Japan in 2014, we chose HIS Niseko.I was one of parents first, then taught Japanese class about 2 years.My daughter has graduated from HIS Niseko and I'm working as an administrative assistant now.
2. Please tell me the characteristics of this school.
(1) To offer an elementary curriculum in English (International Primary Curriculum). IPC
(2) School activity that we perform with Sapporo students, such as Sports Day, Overnight Trip in Jozankei and Concert at Kitara.
(3) Relationship with Niseko town's institutions. Ex.) Cultural exchange with elementary school; 1-2 times per a year. Monthly visit to Ohisama of Yoji-center and Asobook. Accepting the junior high school for their job experiences.Exchange with Niseko high school through the flower bed making.
(1) To offer an elementary curriculum in English (International Primary Curriculum). IPC
(2) School activity that we perform with Sapporo students, such as Sports Day, Overnight Trip in Jozankei and Concert at Kitara.
(3) Relationship with Niseko town's institutions. Ex.) Cultural exchange with elementary school; 1-2 times per a year. Monthly visit to Ohisama of Yoji-center and Asobook. Accepting the junior high school for their job experiences.Exchange with Niseko high school through the flower bed making.
1. Can you tell me a bit about your career up to now?
When HIS Niseko was opened, I was currently living in China and was interested in enrolling my daughter into an international curriculum. When I came back to Japan in 2014, we decided on HIS Niseko. At first I was just a parent, but after a while I decided to work at the school after my daughter graduated.
2. Please tell me the characteristics of the school.
(1) To offer an elementary curriculum in English (International Primary Curriculum). IPC
(2) School activities that we perform with Sapporo students, such as Sports Day, Overnight Trip in Jozankei and concert in Kitara
(3) Relationship with Niseko Town'S Institutions Ex.) Cultural exchange with elementary school; 1-2 times per a year. Monthly visit to Ohisama of Yoji-center and Asobook. Accepting the junior high school through the flower bead making.
We also help families who hold an international curriculum as an important thing.
If you ever do see any of our kids, please do feel free to stop and chat, even in Japanese. Thank you to the people of Niseko for always being so kind to us.
When HIS Niseko was opened, I was currently living in China and was interested in enrolling my daughter into an international curriculum. When I came back to Japan in 2014, we decided on HIS Niseko. At first I was just a parent, but after a while I decided to work at the school after my daughter graduated.
2. Please tell me the characteristics of the school.
(1) To offer an elementary curriculum in English (International Primary Curriculum). IPC
(2) School activities that we perform with Sapporo students, such as Sports Day, Overnight Trip in Jozankei and concert in Kitara
(3) Relationship with Niseko Town'S Institutions Ex.) Cultural exchange with elementary school; 1-2 times per a year. Monthly visit to Ohisama of Yoji-center and Asobook. Accepting the junior high school through the flower bead making.
We also help families who hold an international curriculum as an important thing.
If you ever do see any of our kids, please do feel free to stop and chat, even in Japanese. Thank you to the people of Niseko for always being so kind to us.
Anita Miie Responsibility: Assistant principal, clerk Hometown: Kyoto
1. Can you tell me a bit about your career up to now?
After graduating from the University of Oregon in the United States, I worked in a local NPO for about a year in Nepal. After that I returned back to Japan. After a 5-year adventure education program at teh Hirafu Rafting Company, I got married and gave birth. After that I returned to work in 2016.
After graduating from the University of Oregon in the United States, I worked in a local NPO for about a year in Nepal. After that I returned back to Japan. After a 5-year adventure education program at teh Hirafu Rafting Company, I got married and gave birth. After that I returned to work in 2016.
2. Characteristics of the school
Normally, International Schools are isolated from the neighbouring communities, but not the HIS schools in Sapporo and Niseko. Always in the minds of the people of the town and involved in the activities of the town we never feel isolated here. I really do appreciate this and I know that the children also feel it as well. They are able to find their own place in the town even while attending the international school by taking part in local events and boy's clubs etc.
I think that together with Niseko Town, it would be wonderful if children can develop a flexible and global mind. If you are interested in how children are learning at international schools, please feel free to contact us.
Normally, International Schools are isolated from the neighbouring communities, but not the HIS schools in Sapporo and Niseko. Always in the minds of the people of the town and involved in the activities of the town we never feel isolated here. I really do appreciate this and I know that the children also feel it as well. They are able to find their own place in the town even while attending the international school by taking part in local events and boy's clubs etc.
I think that together with Niseko Town, it would be wonderful if children can develop a flexible and global mind. If you are interested in how children are learning at international schools, please feel free to contact us.
Otani Susan Responsibility: ELL from: Australia
1. Please tell me your career.
I grew up in Australia and studied Japanese.
I came to Japan to help my children learn about Japan.
I have been teaching English since 2000 in both Australia and Japan.
2. Please tell me the characteristics of this school.
International school teach independant learning and encourage students to think for themselves, students research topics rather than just listening to the teacher.
3. Message to Niseko town residents.
This school reflects the international population of niseko, despite niseko being a rural town in country Japan.
I hole, I and others at the school can help Japanese speakers learn English so they can become a part of the international community and expand their future prospect.
I would like all niseko residents to feel welcome at the school and not to be afraid of speaking English.
I grew up in Australia and studied Japanese.
I came to Japan to help my children learn about Japan.
I have been teaching English since 2000 in both Australia and Japan.
2. Please tell me the characteristics of this school.
International school teach independant learning and encourage students to think for themselves, students research topics rather than just listening to the teacher.
3. Message to Niseko town residents.
This school reflects the international population of niseko, despite niseko being a rural town in country Japan.
I hole, I and others at the school can help Japanese speakers learn English so they can become a part of the international community and expand their future prospect.
I would like all niseko residents to feel welcome at the school and not to be afraid of speaking English.
1. Can you tell me a bit about your career up to now?
I grew up in Australia and studied Japanese. I came to Japan to help children learn about Japan. I have been teaching English since 2000 in both Australia and Japan.
2. Can you tell me about some of the unique characteristics of this school?
International Schools teach independent learning and encourage students to think for themselves. Students research topics rather than just listening to the teacher.
3. Have you anything you would like to say to the people of Niseko?
This school reflects the international population of Niseko, despite Niseko being a rural town in country Japan. I hope, I and others at the school can help Japanese speakers learn English so they can become part of the international community and expand their future prospects. I would like all Niseko residents to feel welcome at the school and not to be afraid of speaking English.
I grew up in Australia and studied Japanese. I came to Japan to help children learn about Japan. I have been teaching English since 2000 in both Australia and Japan.
2. Can you tell me about some of the unique characteristics of this school?
International Schools teach independent learning and encourage students to think for themselves. Students research topics rather than just listening to the teacher.
3. Have you anything you would like to say to the people of Niseko?
This school reflects the international population of Niseko, despite Niseko being a rural town in country Japan. I hope, I and others at the school can help Japanese speakers learn English so they can become part of the international community and expand their future prospects. I would like all Niseko residents to feel welcome at the school and not to be afraid of speaking English.
King Kaori Responsibility: EY Hometown: Nagasaki
1. Please tell me the history of the teacher taking office at this school.
I am a qualified nurse in both Japan and Australia. Although I have no background in child education, I have developed a keen interest in young children's education since my son began school at Montessori School in Australia. When the previous EY assistant stepped down due to the birth of her child, the school asked me if I could take the position - which I accepted.
2. Please tell me the characteristics of this school different from Japanese school education the teacher thinks.
The EY class uses the Reggio Emilia Approach. The difference between this kindergarten and Japanese kindergarten is in their approach to preschool education. In Japanese kindergarten, the main focus is preparing the children for elementary school.
In HIS, the primary principles of the preschool education focus on preparing the environment such that each child can expand their ability by encouraging their individuality and natural curiosity.
Niseko is a world famous tourist destination and has many long term foreign residents. The school plays an important role in not only providing an education in the English language, but also providing an option for the foreign residents of Niseko town.
I am a qualified nurse in both Japan and Australia. Although I have no background in child education, I have developed a keen interest in young children's education since my son began school at Montessori School in Australia. When the previous EY assistant stepped down due to the birth of her child, the school asked me if I could take the position - which I accepted.
2. Please tell me the characteristics of this school different from Japanese school education the teacher thinks.
The EY class uses the Reggio Emilia Approach. The difference between this kindergarten and Japanese kindergarten is in their approach to preschool education. In Japanese kindergarten, the main focus is preparing the children for elementary school.
In HIS, the primary principles of the preschool education focus on preparing the environment such that each child can expand their ability by encouraging their individuality and natural curiosity.
Niseko is a world famous tourist destination and has many long term foreign residents. The school plays an important role in not only providing an education in the English language, but also providing an option for the foreign residents of Niseko town.
1. Can you tell me a bit about your career up to now?
I am a qualified nurse in both Japan and Australia. Although I have no background in child education, I have developed a keen interest in young children's education since my son began school at Montessori School in Australia. When the previous EY assistant stepped down due to the birth of her child, the school asked me if I could take the position - which I accepted.
2. What are the characteristics of the school?
The EY class uses the Reggio Emilia approach. The difference between this kindergarten and a Japanese kindergarten is in their approach to preschool education. In Japanese kindergarten, the main focus is preparing the children for elementary school. In HIS, the primary principles of the preschool education focus on preparing the environment such that each child can expand their ability by encouraging their individuality and natural curiosity.
Niseko is a world famous tourist destination and has many long term foreign residents. The school plays an important role in not only providing an education in the English language, but also providing an option for the foreign residents of Niseko Town.
I am a qualified nurse in both Japan and Australia. Although I have no background in child education, I have developed a keen interest in young children's education since my son began school at Montessori School in Australia. When the previous EY assistant stepped down due to the birth of her child, the school asked me if I could take the position - which I accepted.
2. What are the characteristics of the school?
The EY class uses the Reggio Emilia approach. The difference between this kindergarten and a Japanese kindergarten is in their approach to preschool education. In Japanese kindergarten, the main focus is preparing the children for elementary school. In HIS, the primary principles of the preschool education focus on preparing the environment such that each child can expand their ability by encouraging their individuality and natural curiosity.
Niseko is a world famous tourist destination and has many long term foreign residents. The school plays an important role in not only providing an education in the English language, but also providing an option for the foreign residents of Niseko Town.
Inquiries regarding information on this page
- Planning & Environment Division Public Relations Hearing Association
- TEL:0136-44-2121
- FAX:0136-44-3500