In April 2025, Tokyo’s Minato Ward launched the “Pre-Class System” for first-grade students across all district-run elementary schools, marking a first in the city. This initiative sets up temporary classes in April, allowing teachers to observe students’ characteristics and development stages before forming official classes in May. This approach was first implemented in 2021 at Shirokane Elementary School by Tatsuya Yoshino, now principal of Odaiba Gakuen, who believes the system offers numerous benefits.
The “pre-class system” aims to address the so-called “first-grade problem,” where new students struggle to adjust to school life, displaying behaviors like wandering around during class. By initially organizing temporary classes, teachers can better understand each child’s needs, leading to more balanced and tailored classes.
Despite initial resistance, primarily from veteran teachers confident in their ability to manage diverse classrooms, the system has gained popularity among parents and has been adopted district-wide. This collective approach helps educators understand and accommodate each student’s unique needs and fosters a school environment where teachers work together to support all students.
The program includes rotating teachers through classes to observe students before finalizing class assignments. This strategy allows for thoughtful matching of student needs with teacher skills, promoting stable classroom management and mitigating potential issues like class disruption.
While the system involves some logistical challenges, such as re-labeling lockers and moving furniture, the benefits outweigh the inconveniences. The Pre-Class System promotes long-term classroom stability, aiding both students and teachers. Importantly, it operates without significant budgetary impact, making it a feasible solution for many districts.
Minato Ward’s inaugural implementation has attracted attention beyond Tokyo, serving as a promising approach to address the challenges of integrating young students into school life, commonly referred to as the “first-grade problem.”
by MagazineKey4532