The annual Grade 8 cultural exchange program with Greenwich Japanese School (GJS) sets a foundation for students to engage actively and positively in a global community. Studying the similarities and differences between the two cultures begins as a learning experience but quickly becomes much more as students naturally overcome language barriers while bonding and interacting.

“It was cool to overcome the language barrier when we were hanging out,” said Grayson Gallagher ’29. “You had to show what you were talking about instead of just using words.”

This year’s exchange began on Thursday, December 5, with King students visiting GJS for a day immersed in Japanese traditions and activities. 

An engaging opening ceremony featuring a slide presentation on Japanese culture was followed by a lively trivia game that offered fascinating insights. Throughout the visit, students explored a variety of hands-on activities, including folding origami, dressing in traditional Japanese attire, practicing Japanese calligraphy, and trying their hand at a basketball-inspired beanbag game. 

The day concluded with a spirited game of dodgeball, where mixed teams allowed students from both schools to collaborate and bond, showcasing the joy of shared experiences across cultures.

“I liked dressing up in their cultural attire because we don’t have anything like that in America,” said Terrielle Maltese ’29.

King students reciprocated the experience, excitedly welcoming GJS students to King on Thursday, January 9. 

Similar to the experience at GJS, students led tours of King’s campus, shared a slideshow detailing aspects of American culture, and challenged GJS students to an interactive quiz. Later in the day, the groups enjoyed participating in fun games, including a Rock-Paper-Scissors tournament, 4-corners, 7-Up, and basketball. 

This year’s exchange concluded in the middle school Main Commons, with both groups sharing their gratitude for the experience and faculty commending the students' dedication to creating a warm and welcoming environment for their guests.

For educators, the exchange program is a powerful reminder of the value of cross-cultural collaboration. Grade 8 Team Leader Ken Lewis explained how the experience helps to frame the students' studies in a real-world setting.

“Our Grade 8 history curriculum focuses on the U.S. and its role in the world,” said Lewis. “This annual program helps the students gain a first-hand appreciation of a culture much different than their own.”

The King School Annual Fund helps support our distinctive programs. Contributions to the Annual Fund are invested in the current fiscal year to the benefit of King’s dedicated faculty, students, and every corner of campus.