About Us
Sano International School is a unique international school located in Sano, Tochigi catering for children from kindergarten to grade 9.
We provide an enriching environment that nurtures students spiritually, morally, academically, artistically, and athletically - every day and at every grade level.
Our teachers provide moral and ethical training rooted in Christian values, helping students build positive self esteem and develop respect for others.
Students are encouraged to think independently, become lifelong learners, and take responsibility while working effectively with their peers.
One of our key strengths is our dual-language focus on both English and Japanese, opening wider opportunities for high school and university pathways.
With a low teacher-student ratio, each child receives personalized attention and support. High expectations are paired with strong guidance to help students achieve their personal best.
Sano International School is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), an internationally recognized accrediting body that ensures high standards of academic excellence and spiritual development. This accreditation is officially recognized by the Japanese government, affirming that our school meets rigorous educational and operational standards while providing a globally minded, values-based education. Learn more at www.acsi.org.
Raising Leaders to Impact Nations
Sano International School seeks to provide students with the skills they need to thrive in the real world; to stand firm on their own beliefs and opinions; and to be a positive influence in the environments they find themselves in.
This is based on the Biblical foundation "Train a child up in the way he should go and when he is older he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6)
Core Values
SIS Board of Directors, faculty, and staff are committed to core values that guide the school in reaching the hearts of students. These values define the school’s priorities, decisions, and accountability to staff, parents, and students. These core values are as follows:
Student Outcomes
SIS applies a Biblical approach to life and learning. The curriculum is designed to address the whole person and equips students to stand strong in society and to be a positive influence wherever they are. Sano International School has developed a program that prepares students to graduate as individuals who are:
Rooted in Love
● Planted in the love of God
● Joyful in loving and serving others
Growing in Strength
● Becoming life-long learners
● Growing in strength of character
Flourishing in Excellence
● Effective communicators in both English and Japanese
● Leaders demonstrating critical thinking, communication skills, creativity, and collaboration.
Lifelong Learning & Innovation Skills (4Cs)
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Critical Thinking
The ability to analyze, question, and solve problems thoughtfully, enabling students to approach challenges with confidence and curiosity.
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Communication
Expressing ideas clearly and respectfully in writing, speech, and digital formats, and sharing those ideas effectively in diverse settings.
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Collaboration
Working effectively with others through teamwork, leadership, and empathy in order to achieve common goals.
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Creativity
Thinking outside the box to develop original ideas, find innovative solutions, and create meaningful contributions.
Meet the Team
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Vicki Ishibashi, United States
Principal
Ms. Vicki earned her Bachelors Degree in Recreation and Sport Management from Evangel University. She earned an Associates Degree in Theology from Christ for the Nations. She also earned a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from Moreland University. Ms. Vicki has six years of overseas teaching experience. She was teaching fifth and sixth grade students in America before joining Sano International School in 2024. -
Yusuke Ishibashi, Japan
Dean of Elementary, Grade 1-2 Homeroom Teacher
Mr. Ishibashi earned his Bachelor's degree in Counseling from Handong Global University (Korea) and his Master's degree in Divinity from Torch Trinity Graduate University (Korea). He has various experiences in teaching English and the Bible to children and adults. He also helps people for their emotional and spiritual health as a counselor. He joined SIS from September 2021 as a bilingual teacher.
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Lucas Burhan, Indonesia
Dean of Junior High, JHS Homeroom Teacher
Mr. Burhan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from Victory Bible College, Calgary, Canada and a Master’s in Christian Education from Theological School Moriah, Indonesia. He is a certified Cambridge English Teacher, TEFL instructor, Google Educator and Pearson IELTS Expert Trainer. Mr Lucas brings over 12 years of experience in education and leadership experience serving as Vice Principal of a Christian School in Indonesia.
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Naoko Hirasawa, Japan
Administrator
Ms. Naoko is a licensed nurse and also has over ten years experience working in a preschool. Ms. Naoko is bi-lingual and speaks primarily to the students in English throughout the school day.
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Rika Matsumoto, Japan
Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Rika is a licensed preschool teacher who has worked in the field of preschool and nursery education for over twenty three years. She started working for Sano International School at the very beginning and has been with us ever since.
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Wenty Burhan, Indonesia
Kindergarten Teacher
With over a decade of experience in homeschooling, Wenty Burhan is a seasoned educator and curriculum specialist. Having served as a Homeschool Teacher for 10 years, a Sunday School Coordinator for 5 years, and a Homeschool Curriculum Coordinator for more than 8 years, Wenty brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for personalized education to every role.
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Philip John Cajote, Philippines
Grade 3-4 Homeroom Teacher
Mr. Cajote earned his Bachelors Degree in Industrial Education from Laguna State Polytechnic University, Philippines. Mr. Cajote is a licensed professional teacher who has worked in the field of practical arts secondary education for over ten years. He also worked as a school paper adviser and studying Bachelor of Laws before joining Sano International School in 2019.
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Joy Cajote, Philippines
Grade 5-6 Homeroom Teacher
Mrs. Joy Cajote obtained her Bachelor’s degree in a Medical related field at the University of Perpetual Help in the Philippines. She has over 14 years of experience as a licensed front-line medical worker. Additionally, in 2021, she earned her Teaching English To Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)- Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) certification, which gives her an opportunity for English teaching positions internationally.
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Maki Yagisawa, Japan
Japanese Language Teacher
Ms. Yagisawa joined the team at Sano International School in 2013. She is a licensed music teacher and has over 10 years experience of teaching music at Elementary. Maki is also takes care of administration in the school.
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Hatsuko Nakamura, Japan
Japanese Language Teacher
Ms Nakamura got a licence for teaching Japanese in Junior College of Showa Girls’ University. She joined SIS from September 2020 as a Japanese teacher.
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Kiyoshi Ishihara, Japan
Japanese Language Teacher
Mr Ishihara is a part time Japanese teacher. Mr Ishihara graduated from Abbey Christan English College in UK and Dokkyo University with a degree in Foreign Languages.
Board of Directors
There are four members of the Board of Directors of Sano International School including the Principal. The Board of Directors are given the responsibility for the establishment, guidance, and spiritual headship in the operation of the school. The Board is the policy setting body of the school, with the school principal having the responsibility for the implementation of the Board's policies.
Current Board Members:
Rachel Sawka - Chairman of the Board
Kazuyoshi Iijima
Eduard Thayer
Principal - Vicki Ishibashi