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Our Values

At Nagoya International School, we are clear in our purpose: we inquire, inspire, and impact. We are also intentional in how we do this—through a deep commitment to inclusion, ensuring every learner feels seen, supported, and able to thrive.

But an important question remained: why do we do what we do?

To answer this, NIS embarked on a multi-year journey to define the values that underpin our community. Beginning in 2022 as part of our strategic planning process, we engaged students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and board members in a thoughtful and inclusive dialogue.

Over two years, this process included:

  • Teacher-led exploration and reflection
  • Student focus groups and workshops
  • Parent and community engagement events
  • Ongoing feedback, refinement, and collaboration

Together, we gathered and refined ideas—from more than 50 possibilities to a final, shared set of values. Students played a central role, helping to define and shape what these values mean in practice. Their voices ensured that the outcome reflects the lived experience of our community.

In June 2025, our Board formally adopted four core values—rooted in community voice and designed to guide who we are and who we aspire to become.

 

Why Our Values Matter

Our values are the foundation of our school culture. They shape how we learn, how we relate to one another, and how we make decisions every day.
They are not just words—they are lived experiences. They guide:

  • How students grow as learners and individuals

  • How we build relationships across our diverse community

  • How we create an environment where everyone can belong

Together, our values provide a shared understanding of what it means to be part of Nagoya International School.

 

Our Values

 

Safety

At NIS, safety means being comfortable sharing your identity and having confidence in setting your personal boundaries. It means being physically and mentally at ease, able to learn, play, and collaborate without fear.

Why it matters: Safety is the foundation for everything we do. When students feel safe, they are free to be themselves, take risks, and fully engage in learning.

 

Responsibility

At NIS, responsibility means taking accountability for your actions, using your independence wisely, and acting with integrity in ways that reflect both your personal values and those of the community.

Why it matters: Responsibility empowers individuals to make thoughtful choices and contribute positively to the community.

 

Belonging

At NIS, belonging means collaboratively creating an inclusive and kind environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and free to express who they are without fear of judgment.

Why it matters:  A strong sense of belonging fosters connection, respect, and a community where every individual feels valued and essential.

 

Growth

At NIS, growth means reflecting on experiences to better understand yourself, strengthen your identity, and make meaningful improvements in both who you are and what you can do.

Why it matters: Growth extends beyond academics—it is about developing as a person, building purpose, and reaching one’s full potential.

 

Living Our Values

Our values are deeply interconnected. Safety creates the conditions for individuals to feel secure and confident. With that foundation, responsibility guides how we act and make choices. Together, these create a true sense of belonging—where everyone feels seen, respected, and included. In such an environment, meaningful growth can flourish.

These values are not simply displayed—they are lived. They guide how we learn, how we interact, and how we shape our community every day. As Nagoya International School continues to grow and evolve, our values remain our shared foundation—connecting us in purpose and guiding us toward a meaningful future.