Connections Beyond the Classroom: Inside the Horizon Parent-Staff Book Club
- David Lundin
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 10
At Horizon Japan International School, we believe learning doesn’t end when the bell rings — and it certainly isn’t limited to students. Our community thrives when families and educators come together to share ideas, experiences, and stories.
That’s the heart behind our Parent-Staff Book Club — a growing initiative that brings together Horizon parents and staff members for monthly conversations centered on a shared book.
Horizon Book Club: A New Space for Parent-Staff Collaboration
Launched this term, the Horizon Book Club brings together staff and parents for thoughtful conversations on books related to psychology, parenting, and education. This monthly initiative will be hosted in a relaxed, welcoming format and led by Mr. Philip (Primary Dean of Students) and Ms. Elif (Secondary Librarian).
By creating this new space for exchange and dialogue, we’re deepening the relationships that strengthen our school community across cultures, grade levels, and family backgrounds.
A Space to Reflect, Connect, and Grow
The club was launched as a way to bridge school and home, inviting participants to engage in meaningful dialogue about education, culture, parenting, and the world around us. Each session creates a space for thoughtful reflection — not just on the book itself, but on how its themes apply to our lives as caregivers, educators, and lifelong learners.
From parenting books to fiction to education-centered titles, the selections reflect the values and diversity of the Horizon community. Most recently, the group explored Raising Critical Thinkers by Julie Bogart — a timely and thought-provoking read that led to open discussion on how we support children in becoming independent, reflective thinkers.
Truly an International Exchange
As an international school in Yokohama with families from across Tokyo, Kanagawa, and the world, the book club naturally becomes a space where perspectives intersect. It’s not unusual to hear stories from different countries, teaching styles from various systems, and personal experiences that highlight our diversity — all within a single evening.
These moments create bonds. They turn hallway greetings into friendships. They build trust between parents and teachers. And most importantly, they model the very values we seek to instill in our students: open-mindedness, respect, and community.
The Parent-Staff Book Club meets monthly at school and is open to any Horizon parent or staff member who would like to read, reflect, and connect. You don’t need to be a fast reader or a literary expert — just someone who’s curious and willing to share.
If you’re interested in joining the next session, reach out to your child’s homeroom teacher or keep an eye out in the Horizon newsletter for the next book and meeting date.
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