No Police Officers at School

Now, let me tell you how I spent my elementary school days in

Japan.

I never thought it was worth describing because it was mundane. But

after seeing all the horrific news about mass shootings in the U.S., I
realized it was worth telling specifically because it was mundane.

In general, public elementary schools are open to everyone in Japan.

No police officers standing at the gate. Of course, no metal detectors.

Let’s say your child forgot to take her swimsuit for swimming class.
It’s up to you as her parent to deliver it or not, and many parents
don’t. But if you have the time, you can grab the bag, run to the
school, pass through the gate, take off your shoes at the entrance, go
to the classroom, and peak from the door and call your kid. No one
would stop you.

Some elementary schools have security guards, but it’s not common.
Typically, schools have an alarm system turned on at night, and if it’s
necessary, they may have a security guard or two for the morning
and evening to watch over children walking from home.

Aside from the teachers, I only remember a janitor. There were no

security guards at my school and I hung around the neighborhood
with my friends.
Yes, children walk all the way from their homes to school after
they’re six years old.