Saga Gakuen High School Introduces 7 Habits J® Program for the First Time

Introduction of the 7 Habits J® at Saga Gakuen High School

Saga Gakuen High School has made a significant move by adopting the educational program '7 Habits J®', which will commence in April 2026. This implementation marks a milestone, as it is the first time this program will be introduced at a high school in Saga Prefecture, underlining the school's commitment to fostering proactive and responsible citizens.

Background of the Implementation

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) emphasizes the development of abilities such as learning orientation and human qualities, encouraging students to learn actively and engage with others in society. Saga Gakuen High School, founded in 1958, upholds the principle of nurturing human resources that contribute effectively in various sectors. The school's mission extends beyond mere academic knowledge, focusing on instilling a sense of trust, collaboration, and responsibility in their students.

The '7 Habits J®' program, based on the global bestseller 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People' by Dr. Stephen R. Covey, has been tailored for junior high and high school students. The program aims to enhance personal qualities such as proactivity and cooperation, aligning perfectly with the school's educational ethos.

Starting from April 2026, the program will be integrated into the 'Comprehensive Inquiry Time' curriculum for first-year high school students, serving as a vital element to cultivate their autonomy.

Characteristics of the School

Saga Gakuen High School incorporates various academic tracks, including a standard curriculum with special advancement, general studies, and specialized courses in information processing and commerce. The school advocates personalized education through a small class size, typically around 30 students per group, allowing for tailored instruction that caters to the unique needs and understanding of each student.

Expected Changes with the 7 Habits J® Implementation

In a time where declining birth rates pose significant challenges, Saga Gakuen High School recognizes the increased importance of institutional trust from the community. The foundation of this trust lies in the growth and development of their students and the commitment of their educators.

Through the 7 Habits J® program, the school aims to inspire behavioral change in students while increasing opportunities for teachers to acknowledge and celebrate student growth. This cumulative process is expected to nurture a sense of pride and confidence among the teaching staff, fostering a positive school culture.

Messages from School Leadership

The principal, Katsuhiko Aoki, shared, "Our school's strength lies in the personalized education we provide. We have decided to implement the '7 Habits J®' program to build on our foundation and systematically develop our students as individuals. My mission is to ensure that every student entrusted to us grows comprehensively, not just in knowledge, but in their ability to think critically, make decisions, and collaborate effectively with others. An educational environment in which both students and teachers evolve together is crucial."

Vice Principal Yoshifumi Kasa added, "The most anticipated change from the introduction of the 7 Habits J® is the transformation in student behavior. We aim to cultivate a foundation where students reflect on themselves and consider the perspectives of others, even if the results are not immediately visible. Equally important is the evolution of our teachers, who will lead these changes and spread them throughout the school, enhancing both student and faculty pride in being part of Saga Gakuen."

Future Prospects

Saga Gakuen High School intends to systematically promote student behavioral transformation and personal growth through the introduction of the 7 Habits J® program. They envision fostering maturity in students, empowering them to exhibit autonomy and contribute value through collaboration in their relationships.

To achieve this, the school plans to shift from traditional, one-sided teaching methods to more facilitative approaches that encourage reflection and deeper thinking among students. The objective is to create an educational environment where teachers act as guides and supporters of student choices and actions.

Furthermore, the institution aims to embody the principles of the 7 Habits not just in its students, but also in its faculty, fostering a culture of continuous learning. The collective growth of students is expected to translate into enhanced pride and confidence among educators, creating a virtuous cycle that ultimately boosts the overall educational quality of the school. Collaboration with parents and the local community is also a priority, ensuring an integrated effort in nurturing human qualities among students.

About the 7 Habits J® Program

The '7 Habits J®' program is systematically designed for junior high and high school students, deriving from Dr. Stephen R. Covey's bestseller 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.' It aims to equip students with proactive and collaborative skills necessary to build trust and take ownership of their lives. Through experiential learning, students will develop leadership abilities and enhance their non-cognitive skills and humanity, contributing to their personal growth and future readiness.

For interested schools, further information about the 7 Habits J® program can be found through the following links here and here. They are encouraged to reach out for inquiries about the program's implementation.