In the Arahama area, tsunami-conscious local people evacuated to Arahama Elementary School following the earthquake. The tsunami actually reached the second floor of the school building, and the local people and students were led to the fourth floor and the roof top.
While students were leading the lives of refugees, the school held a graduation and an opening ceremony, finished temporary relocation, and the school was once again opened. At the opening ceremony on April 19, the school principal thanked the students saying, “I am glad you came.” He was delighted to see students once again in classes and for their return that had encouraged teachers and cheered them to no end.