Leading from the Middle: Students Driving Inclusivity

Leading from the Middle: Students Driving Inclusivity

What does it take to move from "harmful jokes" to a culture of genuine kindness? In this episode, we sit down with three middle school students who are proving that creating a safe, inclusive environment isn't just a goal for teachers—it's a mission led by the students themselves. They discuss their proactive work in addressing identity-based harm and the specific initiatives they’ve launched to empower their peers. Joining the conversation is Nick Haisman-Smith, who provides expert context on the social-emotional frameworks that support these student-led efforts and the importance of fostering psychological safety in schools. In this episode: Luca (Grade 8), Diya (Grade 7), Eliza (Grade 6), Grade 8 Humanities teacher Dee Willey, and Nick Haisman-Smith (Institute For Social and Emotional Learning)

Designing for the Margins Benefits Us All

How do we create a learning environment where every student thrives? This episode explores The American School in Japan’s ongoing journey with Universal Design for Learning (UDL), a framework that moves beyond traditional instruction to proactively remove barriers. We sit down with Director of Student Support Adrienne Waller to discuss how UDL differs from other educational approaches and how it is being integrated into everything from daily classroom practices to school-wide cultural shifts. As Waller explains, when we intentionally design for the margins, we ultimately cultivate a more inclusive and effective experience for every member of our community. Adrienne Waller is joined in this episode by elementary homeroom teacher Joy Sell, middle school support specialist Cloie Jennings, and grade 11 student Dylan.

Bridging Worlds: Finding Home at ASIJ as Third Culture Kids

For many people at ASIJ, identity is a collage of cultures, languages, and memories carried across continents. In this episode, alumni, staff, and students reflect on their experiences as Third Culture Kids and how those experiences shape their sense of belonging. They explore what “home” means when you grow up bridging cultures—and how ASIJ provides a community connection that endures, wherever life leads. In this episode: 0:00: A discussion on holding multitudes, with Margaret Niles, Japan Center Director Mariko Yokosuka and Zelda Edmunds ’05 25:00 Carrying home with you, with alumnus Nick Harris ’05 28:40: Finding your place today, with students Ema ’27, Jesse ’28, and Lukne ’28

Proud to Be Me: Identity and Belonging in ASIJ's Middle School

Join us as three ASIJ middle schoolers explore what belonging means to them. They open up about identity, belonging, and the powerful role community plays in helping them feel whole—whether it's through curriculars, language access, classroom conversations, or just a seat at the lunch table. In this conversation: Andy Faulk (MS Humanities), Jilene Murray (MS Curriculum Coordinator), Ana '31, Connor '30, Keiran '29

AI Pathways: Empowering Students and Teachers in the Classroom

How is AI reshaping the art of teaching and the craft of learning? Warren Apel, Director of Technology, sits down with three teachers from the middle and high school who have been exploring AI tools through ASIJ’s Pathways program. They share insights on specific AI programs that are being used in their classrooms, the opportunities and challenges it presents, and how educators can empower not only students — but also themselves — to navigate an increasingly technology-driven world. In this discussion: Warren Apel, Director of Technology / Shane Cokerdem, MS Humanities / Mary Ghadimi, HS English / Rigel Crockett, HS Science