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Back to school for Kadena students

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zackary A. Henry
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  More than 4,100 Kadena students officially ended their summer vacation as they headed back to school Aug. 31 at Kadena Air Base, Japan.

"We have a top notch group of students and we have the best, most dedicated faculty that I have ever had the pleasure of serving," Wendy Cooley, Amelia Earhart Intermediate School principal said. "So let's make this the year of exceeding expectations, achieving more than anyone ever thought you could."

Now that the school year has officially begun, base officials remind drivers on Kadena to be wary of school zone speed limits, children who are walking and additional school bus traffic.

One of our Kadena leaders took a moment to visit the school during this event and helped ring in the new school year.

"Just a few years ago, my child sat just on the other side of this very same gym," Col. David A. Mineau, 18th Operations Group commander said. "So I know how great this school is, and I know how great of a school year it's going to be."

Mineau then got the students rallied as he repeatedly asked, "Are you ready to start this year?" before banging on the Taiko drum to "drum in the new year," Okinawan style.

For more information, visit the DoDDS Okinawa District website at www.dodea.edu/Pacific/Okinawa.