Former Junior High School Principal Who Sexually Assaulted a Female Student

“He was always smiling.”

In interviews with various media outlets, graduates from Kitamura’s workplace described him as bright and kind and always smiling, providing positive responses. After graduating from a national university, Kitamura worked at a middle school in Bunkyo Ward. In April 2019, he became the principal of a middle school in Nerima Ward. He was an enthusiastic teacher, even serving as the advisor for the kendo club. (Same source)

In November, Kitamura was dismissed from his position. After the incident came to light, the Nerima Ward Board of Education held a press conference and issued the following apology:

“We deeply apologize that the principal, who is in a position to teach and guide children and is the highest authority at the school, was arrested. We sincerely apologize to the victims, the students, the parents, and the residents of the district.”

In recent years, incidents of sexual offenses by teachers in schools and cram schools have become more frequent. In September 2023, a former instructor at a major middle school entrance exam cram school, “Yotsuya Otsuka,” was re-arrested on charges of forcible indecency, among others.

The Children’s and Family Agency is introducing a “Japanese version of DBS” (Disclosure and Barring Service), modeled after the UK’s system, to verify criminal histories and prevent crimes in advance. This system allows schools and cram schools to check criminal records when hiring teachers and instructors. It is hoped that this will serve as a deterrent against sexual offenses committed by teachers. (Another reporter from the social affairs department)

“Having feelings for [someone]” is not an excuse. The former principal, unable to control his own desires, has inflicted a wound on the children and parents that will never be forgotten.