Nathan Hale is celebrating its 30th year of cultural exchange with our partner school in Naha, Japan. Each year, about 15 students from Naha come to Seattle for about two weeks, live with host families, and attend Nathan Hale High School. A group of Hale students reciprocates by living in Naha with host families and visiting Kyoto, Japan. They attend school with Japanese students where they learn about Japanese customs and culture.

Excerpts from Principal Nakayama's Remarks:

(See Mr. Nakayama's full remarks in English)
(See Mr. Nakayama's Full remarks in Japanese)

"Through this exchange program, Naha students have learned much about American customs and American culture. They have had the opportunity to reflect on their own culture and they have also learned more about their fellow travelers"

"This program offers us the opportunity to speak with the students of your school and discuss the differences in our cultures. We are lucky to have had the opportunity to further deepen our friendships and our goodwill."

"We hope that through the experiences of this program, the students will build a strong foundation of study and understanding, and that they will become great leaders of the 21st century with global vision".


Excerpt from Principal Hechtman's Remarks:  

(See Ms. Hechman's full remarks)

"With your visit we make connections with each other that develops our relationship.  Further, our exchange provides a greater realization of how similar we are as members of humanity while providing the opportunity to appreciate the cultures and experiences that shape our understanding."