#Japan #Chiyoda #Podcast Series #ID High School #Education Voices

Exploring Real Voices in Online High Schools

In an age where the number of school refusers in Japan has reached alarming levels, the podcast series "That's Why I Chose Online High School" provides a compelling platform for students to share their transformative stories. Hosted by ID High School, a correspondence high school based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, this weekly podcast dives into the real-life experiences of students who have faced significant challenges, including school refusal, gaming addiction, and LGBTQ+ issues.

The Rising Tide of School Refusal

According to a recent survey by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the number of school refusers has escalated to about 415,000. This figure reflects a dramatic increase of approximately 2.4 times compared to a decade ago, with middle school students particularly affected. The recent data from ID High School shows that a staggering 68.5% of new students have experienced school refusal. Faced with diminished learning opportunities, many young students are giving up on their academic aspirations. Amidst these challenges, the voices of students and teachers at correspondence high schools have garnered increasing attention.

Podcast Overview

"That's Why I Chose Online High School" serves as a documentary podcast where students learning in these unique educational settings share their thoughts, dreams, and experiences. The program is broadcast every Monday on Spotify, featuring narratives that address essential questions such as:

• - Students: Why did you choose an online high school? What are you working hard on in school? What challenges do you want to take on in the future?
• - Teachers: Why did you decide to work in an online high school? What memorable moments do you have with your students?

Through these authentic voices, the series aims to provide insights and encouragement to middle and high school students contemplating their educational paths.

Captivating Episodes

Listeners can expect to delve into engaging episodes such as:

• - Episode 1: Kentaro's journey of overcoming school refusal and the desire for a more fulfilling school life.
• - Episode 8: Reflections from graduate Mozzarella and Teacher Fujita on the pressure to be perfect.
• - Episode 10: Rio's battle with gaming addiction and its impact on daily life.
• - Episode 14: Komomo Funaki's efforts to promote LGBTQ+ education.

A Message from the Organizers

The message from administration emphasizes that choosing an online high school is not a setback but rather a fresh start for each individual pursuing their dreams. The podcast showcases stories of students who have overcome personal dilemmas and turned their lives around while attending ID High School. The voices of these students and teachers serve as motivation for others grappling with similar challenges.

About ID High School

ID High School, operated by the Ikubunkan Dream Academy, is dedicated to creating supportive educational environments. The institution's primary campus is located in Nagano, with an administrative office in Tokyo. Their website (https://id.ikubunkan.ed.jp/) provides more information about their programs and philosophies.

Through this podcast, ID High School aspire to reshape the narrative around correspondence high schools and provide support for students and families navigating these challenging waters. Tune in and discover how education can transform lives, one voice at a time.