Shadia Santos Constantine

Parent of Roman, Julius, and Marcus Constantine

1. Nationality

Panamanian-American

2. Where were you born?

Republic of Panama

3.How many children do you have at HIS? 

3

4. What attracted you to send your kids to HIS? Alternatively, what attracted your kids to ask you to send them here?

Originally, we planned to stay in Sapporo for one year, and during that time, we enrolled our children in HIS, an English-speaking school, preparing for our eventual return to the US. However, something unexpected happened; we fell in love with Hokkaido. This led us to face the decision of whether to continue with a Japanese school or opt for the Hokkaido International School (HIS).
After trying out the Japanese school for a short period, we ultimately decided to transfer our three kids to HIS. The benefits of being exposed to students from diverse cultural backgrounds have been evident, and our children have thrived in this international environment. The emphasis on self-expression, public speaking, and the arts at HIS has been incredibly valuable in their development.
One aspect we particularly appreciate is the small class sizes, which allow the teachers to provide individual attention and cater to each child's unique needs effectively. This personalized approach has made a significant difference in their learning journey.
Moreover, being part of the HIS community has been a joyous experience. We have forged meaningful friendships with fellow parents and students, creating a support network that has made our lives in Hokkaido fulfilling and enjoyable, despite being far away from our original places of birth.
Overall, our decision to choose HIS for our children's education has been immensely rewarding, and we are grateful for the enriching experiences and connections it has brought into our lives.

5. What school programs do you value the most and why?

The ARTS and Literature/HIS READS programs have caught my attention. While I highly value STEM subjects, I firmly believe that HIS's emphasis on artistic expression and literary knowledge would be highly advantageous for my children, especially as they are growing up away from their extended family.

I hold the belief that exposure to arts and literature will foster qualities that will make my children more adaptable and well-rounded members of society. The arts nurture creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, all of which are essential skills for navigating the complexities of life. By immersing themselves in literature, my children will gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, histories, and perspectives, which will help them develop a more global and humanitarian mindset.

I see the integration of arts and literature as a powerful complement to their academic growth, enhancing their ability to express themselves, empathize with others, and appreciate the beauty of human expression. It will equip them with valuable tools to face challenges with resilience and open-mindedness.

Choosing HIS and its emphasis on the Arts and Literature/READS program is a decision I am confident in, knowing that it will contribute significantly to my children's personal and intellectual development, shaping them into well-rounded individuals ready to embrace the world with compassion and understanding.

6. Please describe a memorable moment at HIS for your child/children and how that has had an impact on you and your family.

Receiving the HIS Husky Award [Julius] has been an incredibly proud and gratifying moment for our family, and as a parent, I couldn't be happier for my two older children. Their hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and witnessing their achievements has been a joy.

As we celebrate their success, I must admit that the bar has been set high, and there is now a sense of anticipation and eagerness for my youngest child to strive for the same honor. The pressure is on, but I believe that with the right support, encouragement, and a nurturing environment, they too can reach new heights and excel in their own unique way.

Rather than view it solely as pressure, I see this as an opportunity for my youngest child to discover and develop their individual strengths and passions. Each child is on their own journey, and I am confident they will find their path to success, just as their siblings did.

As a family, we will continue to provide a supportive and loving atmosphere, encouraging our youngest one to pursue their interests and embrace challenges with determination. Whether or not they receive the Husky Award, their growth, and progress are what truly matter, and we will be there to celebrate every step of their journey. After all, every child's accomplishments, big or small, are moments of pride for us as parents and a family.

7. Please describe a memorable moment from your time at HIS and how that has had an impact on you and your family.

The experience of watching my husband's band perform at one of HIS activities was an absolute delight. Seeing Jon confidently taking the stage and witnessing all the kids joyfully dancing to his singing created a truly unforgettable moment for our family.
The experience was a testament to the enriching opportunities that HIS provides, allowing individuals to shine and create special moments that resonate deeply with those around them. We are grateful for such heartwarming experiences that unite us as a family and foster a sense of community within the HIS environment.

8. What's your favorite part about living in Japan? How about living in Sapporo, Hokkaido? 

Living in Japan, especially in Sapporo, has been an absolute pleasure, and one of the aspects that I truly cherish is the impeccable organization, cleanliness, and safety of the city. The level of efficiency and orderliness in daily life is truly commendable, making it a comfortable and secure place to reside.
While I may not be particularly drawn to snow sports, there is an abundance of other activities that have enriched my time here and made it immensely enjoyable. Sapporo offers a diverse array of cultural events, culinary experiences, and recreational opportunities that cater to various interests and preferences. Visiting local festivals, and indulging in its delectable cuisine have been some of the highlights of my stay.

9.What do you get up to in your free time?

We love watching movies and shows together.  Personally, I enjoy bird watching, hiking and onsens. 

10.What's your favorite book of all time? Alternatively, what's your favorite movie? Why? What do you love about it?

One hundred years of solitude is my favorite book — it brings me back home. 

11.If you could interview any past-living historical figure, who would it be, what would you ask them, and what do you think they'd say?

My choice for an interview would be Vincent van Gogh. While I didn't grow up in an art-knowledgeable family, I have been on a journey to learn and appreciate art, and van Gogh's work has left a profound impact on me. His artistic style, with its bold and expressive brushstrokes, has a captivating beauty that resonates deeply with my soul.
I am particularly curious to know when and how van Gogh discovered the freedom to use such an abundance of paint in his creations. The thickness of his strokes appears so seemingly carefree, yet it results in an exquisite harmony of colors and emotions on the canvas. Was there a pivotal moment or experience that influenced him to adopt this unique technique? Did he consciously recognize the need for this expressive approach, or did it evolve organically as a form of self-expression?

12. What advice would you give to parents considering HIS for their kids?

From my perspective, choosing HIS for the education of my children has proven to be an outstanding decision. The school's approach offers a remarkable opportunity to nurture young minds with a global perspective that extends far beyond physical boundaries.

HIS has been instrumental in providing our children with a well-rounded education that not only focuses on academic excellence but also emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating diverse cultures and perspectives. This approach prepares them to be compassionate, open-minded, and adaptable individuals, well-equipped to thrive in an interconnected world.

For parents who value the idea of giving their children an education that broadens their horizons and exposes them to the richness of the world, I wholeheartedly encourage them to visit the school. Witnessing firsthand the stimulating learning environment, dedicated educators, and the vibrant community at HIS will undoubtedly reinforce the belief in the school's ability to shape well-rounded and globally aware individuals.