#Japan #Tokyo #Developmental Disabilities #Cherry Classroom #Grow-S

Celebrating 35 Years of Cherry Classroom

On October 5th, Cherry Classroom, operated by Grow-S, will host a 35th-anniversary event at the Japan Education Center in Jimbocho, Tokyo. Founded in 1990, Cherry Classroom started its journey in the field of developmental disability education before the term became widely recognized in society. Over the past 35 years, it has prioritized individual characteristics and differences in learning and social skills, ensuring that every student is valued for who they are.

A Pioneering Institution

Cherry Classroom has expanded to 14 locations across Tokyo, Chiba, and Kanagawa, serving around 3,500 students from preschool to adults. This growth comes amid a heightened awareness of developmental disabilities in education; recent research from the Ministry of Education indicates that 8.8% of students in regular schools face challenges in learning and school life. Using its pioneering experience, Cherry Classroom collaborates with educational institutions and communities to facilitate customized education tailored to the diverse learning needs of students.

The classroom's commitment has not gone unnoticed in the media: it recently served as a consultant for the TBS drama "Lion's Hideaway" (2024), which portrays an ASD youth, played by Cherry Classroom students.

Embracing Individuality

In today's rapidly changing educational landscape, awareness of developmental disabilities and diversity is increasingly prevalent. At Cherry Classroom, the philosophy to communicate to students and their families is, "You have many things you can do, even if your way of doing them is different from others; what you cannot do now may very well change in the future." At the heart of the upcoming event lies a powerful message: "The developmental characteristics and individuality each person possesses can become their strength in life!" This message will resonate through the presentations and discussions at the event.

Event Details

The celebration will feature a two-part program:

• - Location: Hitotsubashi Hall, Japan Education Center (2-6-2 Hitotsubashi, Chiyoda-ku)
• - Date and Time: Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 13:30 to 15:45
• - Entry Fee: Free
• - Target Audience: Students and guardians of Cherry Classroom
• - Main Content:

- Theme: "Transforming Individualities into Life Strengths"
- Part 1: Special messages from experts on the importance of understanding developmental disabilities.
1. Dr. Hideo Honda, focusing on enjoying school life.
2. Professor Masatsugu Tsujii, discussing paths to becoming happy adults.
- Part 2: Presentations by representative students, sharing their thoughts on learning, interests, and independence.

Additional Highlights

Alongside the main event, attendees will enjoy the "Sakura Art Exhibition," featuring original works by artist Kosuke Ota, including special pieces to commemorate Cherry Classroom's 35th anniversary. This art exhibition will highlight the talents of students and celebrate their accomplishments through creativity.

About Grow-S

As a pioneer in developmental disability education, Grow-S operates Cherry Classroom, alongside the Learning Support Center for high school students and a free school for junior high and elementary students. Through its 35 years of experience, Grow-S engages in publishing educational materials, supporting schools, and undertaking community outreach projects. Its latest endeavors include partnerships, such as the air travel experience program with Japan Airlines.

The 35th-anniversary event will be an opportunity to celebrate the journey of Cherry Classroom, appreciate its commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment, and share the important message of embracing and valuing individuality.

For more information about the event, visit Cherry Classroom's website. Reach out to Grow-S for inquiries at 047-325-3041 or email [email protected].

This event will further illuminate the notion that each student's unique developmental traits and characteristics are vital sources of strength, underscoring the long-standing mission of Cherry Classroom in the field of special education.