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Board discusses Sakata visit in 2027; schools to lead logistics for student delegations
Summary
Committee reviewed preliminary dates and delegation size suggested by Sakata, agreed schools typically lead student visit logistics, and said they will gather archival materials and coordinate with school staff to prepare a draft response.
The Delaware Sister City Advisory Board discussed early planning for a proposed visit from Sakata, Japan, in 2027, including likely timing, delegation size and who should lead local arrangements.
Committee members noted Sakata’s suggestion that visits tied to the sister-city anniversary could fall between April 2027 and March 2028, and that proposed travel windows included August, November or late March. A March visit was seen as difficult because of school testing periods; members said November or early November would be preferable for local organizers.
Chairman Giebert said historical practice shows that schools — not the city staff alone — have typically organized student-centered visits. Board members identified Jenny Nicely, who previously organized exchanges, as a local contact the committee should consult and said they would meet with her to begin planning. Giebert said he would arrange to meet Jenny and collect archival materials the committee can use in planning.
The committee reported an initial Sakata suggestion that a delegation of about 10 people (including the mayor and five students) might travel, but members characterized those numbers as flexible at this early stage. “I think we should just consider it flexible at this stage, what their delegation looks like,” a member said.
Members agreed to draft suggested timing and logistical notes for Sakata, consult with local school staff about capacity and school calendars, and return to the issue at the committee’s January meeting.
