Marlborough School Committee welcomes Akiruno delegation as sister-city exchange resumes

MARLBOROUGH -- October 17, 2023, Marlborough School Committee welcomes Akiruno delegation as sister-city exchange resumes after COVID hiatus. The ceremonial special meeting Tuesday recognized eight Whitcomb Middle School students who traveled to Akiruno, Japan in September, the first Marlborough delegation since 2019, and hosted a seven-day return visit from Akiruno students, educators, and city officials. Program advisor Heather Roach and co-advisor Tess Ancatel led the relaunch; Kane assistant principal Rick Lucina chaperoned the trip. Itsukaichi Junior High School principal Hirokato Saito told the committee he would "cherish my visit here in memory as long as I live." Akiruno city hall coordinator Shunpai Tsugane, in his first year running the program, said the four-year pause meant his team was "feeling things out." Committee member Hennessey, whose three children participated in earlier exchanges, called the restart "an absolute thrill." Roach said she will bring proposed 2024 trip dates to a future meeting. The 30-year sister-city partnership has now sent students in both directions again.