Annual Soroban Contest in Okinawa and Mainland Japan.  It’s time to show that old technology can still set the pace in the modern world. DoDDS students will show their skills with the Soroban. Competition will be held at the following sites;

• April 16 - Saesbo
• April 29 - Okinawa
• May 20 – New Sanno (All Kanto Plain Area Elementary Schools)
• June 3 – Misawa

The Soroban has been used for thousands of years to do mathematical computations. Based on the abacus which Romans used to solve problems, the Soroban is a Japanese adaptation of a Chinese device. In the competition, children will solve progressively harder problems on their Soroban. The winners will be able to add 5 digit numbers faster than most of us could do on an electronic calculator. This competition is just a small example of how DoDDS students interact with the host nation and can demonstrate appreciation for its culture and history.

Administrative Professionals Week April 19-25.  Behind the scenes of any effective organization there are a host of individuals who work diligently to make things happen and inspire others.  It is during the week formerly known as Secretary Week that we recognize the incredible support we receive from the secretaries, administrative assistants, receptionists, and other administrative support professionals who keep our schools and offices going. This year’s theme, “Excellence in Action,” denotes how conscientious and dedicated our administrative professionals are as they reach for success in today's ever-changing business environment by fostering collaborative relationships with military leaders, teachers, resource managers, and colleagues.