The Story Behind Yamori

Growing up, school was my haven. It was the one place I always felt safe, seen, and supported. That was largely thanks to my second-grade teacher, Mrs. Moriwake. Long after I moved on to the next grade, her door remained open. I visited her every day, sharing my hardships, my joys, and every milestone in between. She guided me through some of the toughest moments of my life. Even in high school, I came back to volunteer in her classroom.

Mrs. Moriwake inspired my lifelong journey into education. I wanted to be that same steady, comforting light for future generations. Before she retired, I was blessed with the opportunity to share with her that I had officially become a teacher. Seeing her joy was unforgettable. She was the exact same kind, nurturing soul I remembered as a seven-year-old. She taught me how to lead with love.

My husband’s path was very different. Growing up in a difficult, fractured home made school hard to care about. But everything shifted when he entered Ms. Yamane’s classroom. She was strict, but fiercely welcoming. She took the time to see him, engage him, and ignite a spark he didn't know he had. Her passion for teaching was contagious, and her belief in him changed his trajectory forever.

Decades later, the story came full circle when our son reached the 5th grade and was placed in Ms. Yamane’s class. History repeated itself in the best way possible. Just like his father, our son fell in love with learning. He spent almost every afternoon after school in her room, cleaning and taking on extra projects. Today, Ms. Yamane still fondly reminisces about my husband's childhood, a testament to a bond that spans generations.

Why "Yamori"?

People often say that teachers change lives, but we rarely get to see the full, lasting ripple effect of that impact. We have been fortunate enough to live it.

The name Yamori was created to honor Mrs. Moriwake and Ms. Yamane, the extraordinary educators who shaped our family, taught us the power of empathy, and showed us what true connection looks like.

Our hope is simple: that Yamori carries their legacy forward, making a meaningful, lasting difference in the lives of every student who joins our programs.