We, the undersigned parents, students, and community members, urge The Woodlands High School and district leadership to reconsider the decision to discontinue the Japanese language program.

This program is not simply an elective—it is a rigorous, multi-year academic commitment that requires careful planning and sustained effort. Students currently enrolled have spent years working toward advanced proficiency, with many intending to take AP Japanese in their senior year to earn college credit and strengthen their college applications.

The success and strength of this program are due in large part to the dedication and impact of Mr. McIntosh, whose passion for teaching and deep commitment to his students have created an engaging, supportive, and academically challenging environment. He has inspired countless students—both current and former—not only to learn the language, but to develop a genuine appreciation for Japanese culture, discipline, and global perspective. His influence extends well beyond the classroom, shaping students’ confidence, work ethic, and future aspirations.

Japanese is also a rare offering in U.S. high schools and provides meaningful advantages in global business, technology, science, and medicine. Eliminating this program removes a unique and valuable opportunity for students to distinguish themselves academically and professionally.

The timing of this decision is particularly concerning. Students have already completed course requests and made important academic decisions for the upcoming school year. Making a change of this magnitude after those commitments have been made disrupts academic plans and places an unfair burden on students and families.

If discontinuation is necessary due to budget or enrollment constraints, the only responsible approach is to phase out the program—allowing current students to complete their intended course of study, including upper-level and AP coursework. Abruptly ending the program leaves students without a viable path forward after years of dedication.

It is also important to recognize that lower enrollment in Japanese reflects structural limitations—not a lack of value. The language is widely known to be challenging, and because Spanish is the only language offered in 8th grade, most students begin there and do not switch later. Despite this, Japanese students are highly motivated and committed.

We respectfully call on the school and district to:

Reconsider the decision to eliminate the Japanese program
Allow current students to continue through advanced and AP levels (phase-out plan)
Explore alternative solutions such as shared instruction, virtual courses, or partnerships
Ensure future program decisions are made prior to course selection
The Japanese program is an important part of academic diversity and rigor at The Woodlands High School. Preserving it supports student success, global readiness, and equitable access to meaningful educational opportunities.

Sign this petition to support our students, honor an exceptional educator, and save the Japanese program.