Kids Web Japan

Sachie Shima's drawings are very popular, and even teachers ask her to create illustrations for school.

Even though the students at the Komei School for the Physically Handicapped may have disabilities, they still express themselves in ways ranging from arts to sports. Here we introduce three of Komei's high school students and the unique activities they enjoy doing.

Sachie Shima (high school, second year)

Sachie is an active girl who enjoys playing hand soccer and tee ball (a form of baseball). When she's not playing sports, she likes to create illustrations on the computer. Sachie says, "In the future I hope to have a job related to illustration."

Shinya Ishizuka is very good at writing poetry and music, and he puts his thoughts and feelings into song.

Shinya Ishizuka (high school, third year)

Shinya has attended Komei ever since he entered as an elementary-school student 12 years ago. He is scheduled to graduate from high school in March 2003. He says, "When I'm at home I like to use the computer and write poetry. And singing in a loud voice is something that will always lift my spirits." Shinya has already composed music and written lyrics for dozens of songs, and he is recording some of them with the help of teachers at Komei. Speaking of his feelings on his upcoming graduation and thoughts on the future, he says, "I want to go forward with the goal of moving people." (listen to the song)

Saeko Kono is an accomplished athlete.

Saeko participates in the wheelchair slalom. She won the event and set a new record.

Saeko Kono (high school, third year)

Saeko is known for the graceful way that she moves around Komei in her wheelchair, which she operates on her own. At the Second National Sports Games for the Challenged held in November in Kochi Prefecture, Saeko represented Tokyo Prefecture in the 100-meter wheelchair race and the wheelchair slalom. Speaking to the students at school right before the competition, Saeko said, "This is a national-level athletic meet, so I'm sure there are many athletes there who have trained for a long time. But with everyone here from school supporting me, I'll do my best, and I'm going to bring back a medal!" Just as she promised, Saeko went to the meet and won the slalom, setting a new record for the competition in the process. She brought the medal back to the school for everyone to see.