HISD middle schoolers experience cultural immersion through Tokyo trip

As the school year drew to a close, some HISD middle school students eagerly anticipated a unique opportunity provided by the Dyad Travel program. This initiative enabled students from NES campuses to embark on a five-day trip to Tokyo, Japan. The program is designed to expose students to diverse experiences, aligning with the Dyad model implemented in NES schools.

Dyad Travel annually organizes trips for seventh and eighth graders. Seventh graders travel domestically—this year’s destination was Washington, D.C.—while eighth graders venture abroad. Over 250 students participated in these trips this year, with eligibility based on disciplinary and attendance records. The trips are fully funded by HISD and community partners, covering all expenses from passport fees to luggage.

“I want our kids to have the opportunity to see how big the world is, to see how humanity is still the same no matter where you go,” said Ena Meyers, Deputy Chief of Strategic Initiatives for HISD. “How amazing is it to know that people across the ocean are human, that their values and wants are so similar to ours but at the same time, so different, and how we can learn from each other.”

To prepare for their journey, HISD organized several educational activities involving its Nutrition Services Department and the Japan America Society of Houston (JASH). These sessions familiarized students with Japanese customs, foods, and etiquette. Students learned about using chopsticks, traditional Japanese tea service, and sushi-making.

The preparation included a field trip to 99 Ranch Authentic Asian Market where students engaged in a scavenger hunt for ingredients needed for a traditional Japanese dish. They also had lunch at Yokushi Robata restaurant featuring seaweed salad, takoyaki (fried octopus), ramen, and okonomiyaki (a savory pancake). Representatives from JASH provided guidance during this meal.

“The Japan America Society was blessed to have the opportunity to partner with HISD in preparing the students for their trip,” said Patsy Yoon Brown, Executive Director of JASH. “We feel that promoting cross-cultural understanding broadens horizons...when you’re able to experience a culture firsthand.”

Superintendent Mike Miles joined the students at Yokushi Robata. For Miles—who is of Japanese descent—the trip held special significance as he shared his personal experiences growing up half-Japanese in America. He discussed Japanese culture with the students and quizzed them on their knowledge of the language.

“This is part of kids learning to grow a broader perspective...on how things work in the world,” Miles stated.

Dyad Travel sent 172 eighth grade students from Fleming, Forest Brook, Henry, Key, McReynolds, and Sugar Grove Middle Schools in six separate groups; they returned stateside by June 3.

For more information on Dyad Travel visit [website link].