Week of 2/28/25
What's Happening at HPA This Week?
Message from the Head of School
Aloha HPA ʻohana,
Back in the Arena…
It is that time of year again. The time when Theodore Roosevelt’s famous “Man in the Arena” speech truly resonates on both campuses:
“It is not the critic who counts… The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly… who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds…”
These words deeply impact our students as they have been stepping into their own “arenas” while we prepare to head into Spring Break. February at HPA is a time of campus-wide exhibitions of performance, creativity, and collaboration. Our K-2 students got us going by bringing their tremendous energy and joy to the stage, delighting us with their annual musical performance of Strictly No Elephants! Tonight, our fourth grade is running its annual Village Campus Plant Sale. Our Middle School students channeled their competitive spirit, heavy on cooperation and collaboration, into an equally exciting event — the highly anticipated and TV-worthy Lip Sync Contest. All the while, the entire Village is preparing for their Student-led Conferences next week, and our Middle School performing arts students are getting ready to take the stage this weekend for their production of The Wizard of Oz (Youth Edition)! Meanwhile, our Upper Schoolers have stretched themselves in science fairs, simulations, and state athletic competitions (too soon, for me to write about!), and now are fully engaged in the HPA Olympics.
The HPA Olympics — one of our most beloved and enduring traditions — made even more special this year, in our school’s 75th anniversary and the 47th edition of the games, as we have been delighted to honor a special guest to the events. Introduced in the opening ceremonies, was the founding father of fun, the principal of play: Mr. Zeke Knight. Mr. Knight invented the HPA Olympics with his social science class almost five decades ago as a project to boost school spirit and bring more lasting connections within the grade levels. It has turned into the most wonder-filled expression of competition and play combining the interpersonal and intrapersonal challenges we desire for our students while highlighting the most important part of learning — FUN! From a student life standpoint, Zeke and his class gave us our special sauce that has now endured for nearly half a century.
Just as Paris welcomed athletes from around the globe last summer, bringing together nations, traditions, and cultures, the HPA Olympics unites our diverse student body across grade levels in friendly yet fierce competition. While the Olympic torch lit up the Seine, the spirit of competition and camaraderie burns just as brightly here at HPA with our symbolic red mop handle flame. Yes, a celebration of both individual talent and collective spirit — HPA Olympics is another opportunity for our students to push themselves, support their classmates, and revel in the sheer joy of play. Writer, poet, and philosopher Diane Ackerman once wrote, “Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.”
In so many ways, in so many spaces, our students and teachers embrace this notion of learning by doing, of getting comfortable with the uncomfortable, and of make learning fun. It is this week, the last week of February, that we honor all our students in the arena!
Happy Aloha Friday!
Gratefully,
Fred Wawner
Head of School
In honor of Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian Language Month) and Black History Month, we are excited to highlight the inspirational impact of educators whose dedication has left a lasting legacy. This week, we celebrate Carter G. Woodson and Haunani-Kay Trask.
Carter G. Woodson’s legacy is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring importance of knowing our history. Known as the “Father of Black History,” his pioneering work in founding Negro History Week — a celebration that has evolved into Black History Month — reminds us that the story of African Americans is integral to the narrative of our nation.
Woodson challenged us to delve deeper into our past, to uncover the struggles, triumphs, and contributions that have shaped our world. His vision was clear: by understanding where we come from we empower ourselves to create a more just and inclusive future. His work inspires us to honor the lessons of history and to celebrate the rich, multifaceted heritage that has defined generations.
Let us carry forward Carter G. Woodson’s passion for education and truth by seeking out these stories, sharing them with pride, and embracing the diversity that enriches our collective experience.
Haunani-Kay Trask’s legacy illuminates the power of education, art, and activism in reshaping our world. As a Native Hawaiian educator, poet, activist, and author, she challenged established narratives and inspired a renewed pride in indigenous knowledge and culture. By founding the Kamakakūokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, she created a sanctuary for the Hawaiian language, history, and traditions — a place where the voices of the past could guide the future.
Her work teaches us that true education is about more than acquiring facts; it is about honoring one’s heritage, questioning injustice, and striving for a society where every story is valued. Haunani-Kay Trask’s courage and visionary spirit remind us to stand firm in our identity, to speak our truth, and to empower those around us through learning and creative expression.
Let her legacy inspire you to celebrate your roots, to advocate for cultural preservation, and to pursue education as a tool for social change. E ola mau ka ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi! (May the Hawaiian language live on!)
School Bulletins for the Week of 2/28/25
Lower School
Each week, Lower School Principal Dora Kwong writes a message to K-5 families highlighting joyful moments and meaningful lessons and offering a glimpse into what students and parents can plan for in the weeks ahead.
From the desk of your Division Principal, Dora Kwong
Aloha Lower School families!
Mahalo nui all who were able to attend last week’s kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd-grade musical, Strictly No Elephants! Based on the beloved children’s book, this performance directed by our wonderful music educator, Mrs. Mallory DiBartolo, was a beautiful celebration of creativity, collaboration, and joy. Our students brought the story to life with their enthusiasm and talent, giving us all a delightful respite from our day-to-day routines. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication. What a beautiful afternoon celebrating inclusion, friendship, and musical performance! If you were unable to attend the showing, you can watch the recording here.
I want to also express my deep gratitude to everyone who contributed to our various initiatives in support of our capstone projects and our students’ broader community goals. Your generosity is a powerful reminder to our students of the strength of community and how a single idea can create a meaningful impact. Thank you for your kindness and commitment.
Looking ahead, I am excited to see you all next week at our Lower School Student-led Conferences on Thursday, March 6, and Friday, March 7. These conferences are an important opportunity for students to take ownership of their learning journeys and share their growth and goals with you. Our children have been diving deep into their academic work, and your presence at their conference is a meaningful way to support their pursuit of excellence. If you need guidance on how to navigate these conferences, please refer to my letter from February 17, where I shared tips on what to do during your session and how to sign up. As a reminder, families are always welcome to meet with teachers outside of these conference times for conversations that are out of place during a student-led meeting.
Thank you for being such an integral part of our school community. Your support, involvement, and encouragement make all the difference for our keiki. It is hard to believe our third quarter is coming to a close, but we have much to celebrate together before we head off to our break. I hope to also see many of you at our 5th-grade capstone exhibits on the afternoon of Wednesday, March 5!
Me ke aloha pumehana,
Dora Kwong
Lower School Principal
In honor of HPA’s 75th Anniversary, we are making an effort to record thoughts and ideas from our current study body. Responses from this short survey will go to HPA’s alumni office, and we may use them in the next Ma Ke Kula (with your permission). Mahalo nui! K-8 Survey
We are proudly marking a truly momentous occasion — our 75th anniversary! Throughout this school year, we will celebrate together and invite you to join us in remembering that we are all — alumni, students, parents, faculty and friends — Ka Makani. Take a stroll through our historical timeline, meet just a few of the many Ka Makani who make us proud, and read about our vision for the future in the 75th Anniversary feature just launched on our website. There, you will also find information about planned gatherings for the year ahead, and have a chance to pre-order our very special 75th anniversary aloha wear collection. Make sure to follow us on Instagram @HawaiiPrep to stay in the loop about all of the festivities.
Schedule
Our K-5 classes continue with in-person instruction on our Village Campus on Monday, March 3.
We encourage all families to check the School Calendar in myHPA for the most up-to-date information. In addition, a list of Key Dates (school opening and closures) can also be located on the Lower School Family Resources tile located in myHPA.
Coming Up
• Friday, February 28, from 3:15 to 5:00 pm: Village Campus Plant Sale; Ulumau Garden
• Saturday, March 1 & Sunday, March 2: Middle School musical production of The Wizard of Oz; GPAC, Upper Campus
• Wednesday, March 5, from 12:00 to 2:00 pm: 5th-grade Capstone Exhibitions, Hale ʻĪnana
• Thursday, March 6 & Friday, March 7: Middle and Lower School Student-led Conferences; Village Campus
• Friday, March 7, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm: First Friday Game Night; Village Campus Taylor Library
• Monday, March 10 – Monday, March 24: Spring Break, no classes K-12
• Tuesday, March 25: Classes resume K-12
• Thursday, April 10, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm: ʻOhana Association Parent Social and General Meeting; Isaacs Art Center, Village Campus
Student Support
Ms. Baydo (K-8 School Counselor) rbaydo@hpa.edu and Mr. Ludes (K-8 Learning Specialist) jludes@hpa.edu are available to discuss and support social-emotional and academic concerns for your child(ren). Please connect with them via email.
After School Program, K-5: Spring term, February 10 – May 16, 2025
Please email our Director of After School Programs, Mrs. Mele DeMille (mdemille@hpa.edu), if you would like your child to attend. You may refer to this email for our Lower School families with more information.
Past Email Communications
All past email communications can be accessed by visiting the Lower School Family Resources tile on myHPA and scrolling down to Past Parent Email Communications, 2024-2025.
myHPA
In addition to Seesaw, many important resources can be located on our community portal, myHPA. Check the Lower School Family Resources tile for the most up-to-date information.
Middle School
Each week, Middle School Principal Michael Cservenak pens a note to 6-8 families reflecting on the activities and accomplishments of the week and previewing what students and parents can look forward to in the coming days.
From the desk of your Division Principal, Michael Cservenak
Aloha Middle School families,
“To teach in the ways of nature is to teach how to live fully.” — Mary Oliver
“The arts are an essential ingredient in the recipe for a happy, productive, and well-rounded life.” — Maya Angelou
“The more that students take responsibility for their learning, the more they learn.” — John Hattie
I am opening this week’s message with the three quotes above because they beautifully illustrate the why behind three essential events and systems that will showcase our students’ learning, creativity, and engagement with our broader school community in the coming days.
Connecting Through Nature: 4th Annual Village Campus Plant Sale
Today, our Garden Teacher, Ms. Lauren Prutow-McKenna, led by our 4th-grade students, is hosting our 4th Annual Village Campus Plant Sale — an initiative designed to encourage families to cultivate their own gardens in the coming year. This event is a true whole-school effort, bringing together every division and reinforcing our connection to the land and one another. With laughter, music (yes, I’ll be playing with the faculty band!), and a shared appreciation for sustainability, this gathering is a wonderful way to embrace Mālama Kaiāulu. Join us today Friday, March 28th, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. for an afternoon of community, learning, and growth!
The Power of the Performing Arts: Middle School Musical Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition
This weekend, on Saturday, March 1, at 6:00 pm and Sunday, March 2, at 2:00 pm, our Middle School Musical: The Wizard of Oz (Youth Edition) will take the stage at GPAC. Under the expert direction of Kelly Wadlegger and Music Director Mallory DiBartolo, students in grades 5–8 have poured their hearts into this production, bringing the classic story to life with passion, humor, and dedication. I am incredibly proud that we have championed this Middle School-level production — an opportunity for students to develop confidence, teamwork, and artistic expression. As Maya Angelou’s words remind us, the performing arts are essential in shaping well-rounded, engaged, and joyful learners.
Empowering Student Ownership: Student-led Conferences
The quote from John Hattie, a leading educational researcher, highlights the transformative power of student ownership in learning—which is exactly why our upcoming Student-Led Conferences on Thursday, March 6, and Friday, March 7 are so vital. Each student has dedicated themselves to deep reflection, analyzing authentic work samples through the lens of Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Communication. They have carefully identified both strengths and areas for growth, preparing to share these insights with you, their families, in a meaningful way.
The importance of this process cannot be overstated. Research consistently shows that when students take responsibility for their learning and reflect on their progress in the presence of their guardians and teachers, they build a stronger foundation for future academic and personal growth. Please prioritize this essential opportunity—your engagement and encouragement make a world of difference in your child’s learning journey.
I look forward to celebrating our students with you at these upcoming events!
Below, you will find an important outreach message from 8th grader, Grace Dalton, regarding her capstone project to support teens along with flyers for our 4th Annual Village Campus Plant Sale and Middle School Musical Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition (both of which have been promoted via separate emails).
Have a great weekend!
Aloha always,
Michael Cservenak
Middle School Principal
Aloha HPA ʻohana, My name is Grace Dalton and I’m an 8th grader currently working on my capstone. My project is about providing teenagers with a place to talk and relate with each other if they are struggling with something, whether it be socially, academically, or at home. I strongly believe that by creating an environment where kids/teens can relate and, therefore, feel less alone, they may feel empowered to overcome their challenges. To accomplish this, I’ve created the Hear Me Out Teen Support Group with the support of Tutu’s House and Mr. Rickards, an LMFT, as the group facilitator. The first meeting is scheduled for Sunday, March 9, from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. I am hopeful that the interest and benefits to students in this initial meeting will prove worthwhile enough to keep the program going. Students aged 12-14 are welcome to attend and share their feedback. There is a limit of ten participants at this time, so it will be first come, first serve. Click here for more information, including the waiver for both parents and attendees to fill out. Mahalo!
In honor of HPA’s 75th Anniversary, we are making an effort to record thoughts and ideas from our current study body. Responses from this short survey will go to HPA’s alumni office, and we may use them in the next Ma Ke Kula (with your permission). Mahalo nui! K-8 Survey
We are proudly marking a truly momentous occasion — our 75th anniversary! Throughout this school year, we will celebrate together and invite you to join us in remembering that we are all — alumni, students, parents, faculty and friends — Ka Makani. Take a stroll through our historical timeline, meet just a few of the many Ka Makani who make us proud, and read about our vision for the future in the 75th Anniversary feature just launched on our website. There, you will also find information about planned gatherings for the year ahead, and have a chance to pre-order our very special 75th anniversary aloha wear collection. Make sure to follow us on Instagram @HawaiiPrep to stay in the loop about all of the festivities.
Schedule
Our Middle School 2024-2025 Daily Schedule continues with in-person instruction on our Village Campus on Monday, March 3.
We encourage all families to check the School Calendar in myHPA for the most up-to-date information. In addition, a list of Key Dates (school opening and closures) can also be located on the Middle School Family Resources tile located in myHPA.
Coming Up
• Friday, February 28: Village Campus Plant Sale; Ulumau Garden
• Saturday, March 1 & Sunday, March 2: Middle School musical production of The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition; GPAC, Upper Campus
• Thursday, March 6 & Friday, March 7: Lower and Middle School Student-led Conferences; Village Campus
• Friday, March 7, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm: First Friday Game Night; Village Campus Taylor Library
• Monday, March 10 – Monday, March 24: Spring Break, no classes K-12
• Tuesday, March 25: Classes resume K-12
• Thursday, April 10, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm: ʻOhana Association Parent Social and General Meeting; Isaacs Art Center, Village Campus
Student Support
Please remember that we will be outside as much as possible during lunch and recess, so a rain jacket for light rains and a pareo or small beach towel for picnicking will be great to have at school. Students should also bring a water bottle to school each day.
Ms. Baydo (K-8 School Counselor) rbaydo@hpa.edu and Mr. Ludes (K-8 Learning Specialist) jludes@hpa.edu are available to discuss and support social-emotional and academic concerns for your child(ren). Please connect with them via email.
After School Program, Grades 6-8: Spring term, February 10 – May 16, 2025
Please email our Director of After School Programs, Mrs. Mele DeMille (mdemille@hpa.edu) if you would like your child to attend. You may refer to this email for our Middle School families for more information.
Past Email Communications
All past email communications can be accessed by visiting the Middle School Family Resource tile on myHPA and scrolling down to ‘Past Email Communications, 2024-2025’.
myHPA
myHPA is where you can find all the resources related to your child’s learning. Two key resource boards that we would like to draw your attention to are the ‘Middle School Family Resources’ and the ‘Middle School Student Resources’.
myHPA Tutorials
myHPA is your window to your child’s progress in school. Here you will find their schedules, their assignments, their grade books and so much more. Ms. Monello and our IT team have put together a number of tutorials to help you navigate the myHPA parent portal.
Please note this myHPA Middle School Parent Tutorial, which gives you an overview of using myHPA as a window to your child’s learning in real time.
Performing Arts
Wizard of Oz Youth Edition
Get your tickets now to see the Village Campus production from March 1-2 at Gates Performing Arts Center!
Upper School
Each week, our Upper School leadership team provides valuable insight about campus culture while sharing updates with 9-12 students and parents on academics, athletics, and arts, and what day and residential families can expect throughout the semester.
From the desk of your Upper School leadership team
Aloha Upper School families,
This is my favorite week of the year, and let me tell you why.
For the last three days, we put down our pencils and pens, closed our laptops, and stepped away from the classrooms and textbooks — not to take a break from learning, but to experience it in a whole new way.
We began the week with a challenge — a powerful, student-led capstone project that pushed us to think critically about the world. In a Nuclear Proliferation simulation, students became global stakeholders engaging in lively debates, working through tense negotiations, and even displaying passionate protests, all in pursuit of a solution to a high-stakes scenario. Faculty joined in, immersing themselves in the discussions, making Wednesday an extraordinary learning opportunity, proving that learning isn’t just about what happens at our desks–it is about student leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Then, we carried that same energy and teamwork into the HPA Olympics, a 47-year tradition, reminding us that we are a part of something bigger—something enduring. For two sun-drenched days, the Upper Campus transformed into a whirlwind of energy, competition, and connection as students, faculty, and staff came together. With Air, Wind, Earth, and Fire as this year’s elemental themes, each class donned vibrant, specially designed t-shirts, their colors flashing across the fields as they ran, strategized, and cheered their classmates on.
From individual challenges to full-class battles, the competitions tested not only skill and endurance but also the very essence of our Core Values: Integrity in fair play, Respect in uplifting teammates and opponents alike, the Pursuit of Excellence in giving it our all, and the Wonder sparked by the pure joy of friendly competition.
Mālama Kaiāulu was in full force as students deepened their connections, not just with their own class but across all grades. Pilina (connections) flourished as upperclassmen mentored younger students, and bonds of friendship were strengthened through teamwork and shared triumphs. Kuleana (responsibility) shined as everyone played their part, whether leading a relay, organizing a hukihuki (tug-of-war) strategy, or simply cheering with all their might. Lōkahi (unity) and Haʻina (sharing our story) came alive as voices rang out in support, faces and bodies decorated in paint, and memories etched into sun-kissed skin and spirited hearts.
A special highlight of the opening HPA Olympic ceremonies was celebrating with Zeke Knight, the founder of this incredible tradition, whose stories remind us of the legacy we uphold each time we take the field. And, of course, our faculty, also adorned in tutus, paint, tattoos, and sparkles, stepped in with equal enthusiasm, ensuring that the games ran smoothly and that the spirit of the play remained at the heart of it all.
Next week, as we return to our studies, we will carry forward the laughter, the teamwork, and the joy of coming together as one community. Whether or not your class claimed victory, the real win is the friendships forged, the memories made, and the Ka Makani spirit that continues to soar.
Here is to 75 years of HPA, 47 years of the HPA Olympics, and a future as enduring as the Earth, as deep as the Water, as bold as the Fire, and as limitless as the Wind!
E holo mua kākou!
Dr. Amanda Aragon
Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator & Learning Center Director
We are proudly marking a truly momentous occasion — our 75th anniversary! Throughout this school year, we will celebrate together and invite you to join us in remembering that we are all — alumni, students, parents, faculty and friends — Ka Makani. Take a stroll through our historical timeline, meet just a few of the many Ka Makani who make us proud, and read about our vision for the future in the 75th Anniversary feature just launched on our website. There, you will also find information about planned gatherings for the year ahead, and have a chance to pre-order our very special 75th anniversary aloha wear collection. Make sure to follow us on Instagram @HawaiiPrep to stay in the loop about all of the festivities.
Schedule
Our Upper School 2024-2025 Daily Schedule will resume as a Mamo day with in-person instruction on our Upper Campus on Monday, March 3.
We encourage all students and families to access the School Calendar in myHPA for the most up-to-date information. In addition, a list of Key Dates (school opening and closures) can also be located on the Upper School Family Resources tile located in myHPA.
Coming Up
• Monday, March 3: All Upper School Assembly in GPAC
Monday, March 10 – Monday, March 24: Spring Break, no classes K-12
• Tuesday, March 25: Classes resume K-12
• Thursday, April 10, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm: ʻOhana Association Parent Social and General Meeting; Isaacs Art Center, Village Campus
Student Support
Should your child need additional learning support, we encourage you to reach out to Amanda Aragon, our Upper School Learning Center Coordinator, by emailing aaragon@hpa.edu. In addition, our counselors are ready to assist any student who needs additional support to navigate these unusual and unprecedented times. Please feel free to reach out to the Upper Campus counseling team of Tiffany Freitas at 808-881-4038 or tfreitas@hpa.edu and Steve Furchner at 808-640-4441 or sfurchner@hpa.edu.
Student Life
Upcoming Student Life Events
- February 28: HPA Olympics – Throughout the week, students have participated in a variety of events as each class competes to win the ultimate title of Winners of the HPA Olympics! Tonight marks the culmination of this timed honored event with the Closing Ceremonies. Please note that this event is only for our students due to our theater size. Keep up-to-date by visiting the HPA Olympics tile on the myHPA resource page.
- March 10-23: Spring Break – Spring Break
- March 24: Prince Kuhio Day – School closed
- April 19: Prom – Four Seasons Resort Hualalai (tickets on sale after Spring Break)
Ka Makani Athletics
Another winter season is ready to roll. Let the games begin! Here’s the latest winter athletic schedule and our updated weekly schedule. GO KA MAKANI! You can also access the athletics schedule on the myHPA calendar.
Ka Makani Travel
Ka Makani Travel, HPA’s student travel program, is offering
- Spring Break 2026 – The Alps and the Mediterranean Coast with EF Tours: March 2026, $200 early booking discount applied, available for enrollments before before February 14, 2025
Scholarships available from EF’s Global Citizen Scholarship Fund. The deadline to apply for a scholarship with EF is August 12, 2025. You must be enrolled in an EF Tour to apply.
Please contact Ka Makani Travel Coordinator Adrienne White (awhite@hpa.edu) for information on registration, eligibility, and travel grants.
Day Student Attendance Protocols
A parent or guardian must email attendance@hpa.edu before 9:00 am if they need to excuse their child for that day. Please note that students will only be excused for appointments or family or medical reasons. Unexcused absences will result in conduct points which can result in the student being restricted to campus for boarding and/or ineligible for academic awards, i.e. the Dean’s List. Students are responsible for checking their conduct points and attendance records and should reach out as soon as possible if there are any errors.
For long-term absences, please also reach out to the Upper School Office and the student’s advisor to coordinate a plan for the missing classes.
If a day student is ill, please do not send them to school, but email attendance@hpa.edu and include Health Services (infirmary@hpa.edu), and a nurse will follow up with the proper return-to-class procedure. If a student already on campus begins to feel ill, they must report to the infirmary, where the nurses will take care of them. If a student fails to do so and is absent to a class, the absence will be unexcused.
Whom to Contact at HPA
If you are unsure who to contact regarding a specific question or issue, please refer to our Whom to Contact guide.
As a reminder, HPA is a closed campus, so if a parent or guardian wishes to come to campus during the academic day, they will need an appointment with one or more of the following:
- Upper School Office (upperschool@hpa.edu)
- US Administrative Assistant, Līhau Wengler-Ioane (lihau@hpa.edu)
- Assistant Head of School for Upper School, Mark Noetzel (hpaus@hpa.edu)
- Curriculum & Instruction Coordinator: Dr. Amanda Aragon, aaragon@hpa.edu
- Capstone Program Coordinator: Pualani Lincoln Maielua ‘01, plincolnmaielua@hpa.edu
- Athletics: Steve Perry (sperry@hpa.edu)
- Extra-curricular programs: Kaʻai Spencer (jspencer@hpa.edu)
- Student’s Advisor
- Student Life Center (studentlife@hpa.edu)
- Health Services (infirmary@hpa.edu)
Residential Life
The 3rd quarter is drawing to a close in the next week, and we are going out at full throttle! The campus is buzzing as we are in the midst of the 47th annual HPA Olympics, set to finish tonight with the Talent Show and Closing Ceremonies! We wish all of the students the best of luck, and look forward to their performances later this evening!
After the conclusion of Olympics, we turn our attention to Spring Break! Please ensure that your child’s travel information has been shared with the Travel office (travel@hpa.edu), and inform us immediately of any changes in their itineraries. As a reminder, students are not permitted to sign out for the break to their own care, and must sign out to the care of a present, supervising adult (25 years of age or older). This is an important safety and liability policy for the school, and parent permission to stay someplace unaccompanied is not allowed (and in some cases may be against local laws). We appreciate your collaboration in making sure that all of our students are properly cared for during the break.
Class of 2025 – Seniors and families
Aloha e nā ʻohana 2025! Class of 2025 seniors and families, we are so excited to celebrate your upcoming graduation from Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy. The Class of 2025 Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, May 23, 2025, at 10:00 am in Castle Gymnasium, and there are many other end-of-year milestones to celebrate before then, as well.
We have recorded a presentation covering the important end-of-year events HPA has planned for the Class of 2025.
Please also be sure to visit the “Upper School End-of-Year Events” Resource Board on myHPA, which will be updated over the next several months with new details.
We are thrilled to celebrate all of the achievements of the Class of 2025, including their culminating event — graduation!! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at graduation@hpa.edu.
E hoʻomaikaʻi kākou!
Links:
Class of 2025 Commencement & End-of-Year Events presentation
Upper School End-of-Year Events Resource Board
College Counseling
Junior Parent Night: Wednesday, March 6, 5:30-6:30 pm HST Please join our College Counseling team online on Wednesday, March 5, from 5:30 to 6:30 pm HST for an informative Zoom session that outlines HPA’s College Counseling spring program for juniors. Topics to be discussed include:
- Overview of the Spring CC Program
- Planning for Spring and Summer Breaks
- Visiting College Campuses
- Scoir Assignments and How Parents Can Help Us
- Standardized Testing for Juniors
- Financial Aid and Cost-Conscious College Lists
Click here to join this meeting.
For those who are unable to attend, a recording of our meeting and PowerPoint slides will be sent to all junior families after the meeting.
School Day SAT for all Juniors on Wednesday, March 5
On Wednesday, March 5, juniors will take the SAT on the HPA Upper Campus. Registration has been completed for all juniors. Students must have the Bluebook App downloaded on their device before testing. See below for information regarding technical requirements. Students who require a loaner computer for exam day must email testing@hpa.edu by Wednesday, February 27.
Juniors must check in at the gym between 8:00 to 8:30 am. Testing will take place from approximately 8:45 to 11:30 am with lunch to follow. Students will return to regularly scheduled classes in the afternoon.
The following items are REQUIRED on Testing Day:
- A valid photo ID
- FULLY CHARGED testing device with the Bluebook™ application installed and exam setup completed (please refer to the detailed device requirements). NO PERSONAL CHROMEBOOKS. Students must talk with their advisor if they have concerns. (There will be no power cords to charge during the test.)
- Pencils or pens for scratch work.
- An acceptable calculator for use in the math section (an embedded graphing calculator will be also available within Bluebook).
- Water bottle and snacks for the break. (This is optional and must be kept outside of the test room.)
Schedule an Individual Check-in Meeting
Mr. Kelsey and Mrs. Montgomery are available for individual check-in meetings. Please click below to select a 30-minute time slot for an individual appointment with your assigned counselor. All meetings will be in the College Counseling Center.
If you need any help with scheduling appointments, please contact us directly at college@hpa.edu.
Past Email Communications
All past email communications can be accessed by visiting the Upper School Family Resources tile on myHPA and scrolling down to ‘Past Email Communications, 2024-2025’.
myHPA
myHPA is where you can find all the resources related to your child’s learning. Two key resource boards that we would like to draw your attention to are the ‘Upper School Family Resources’, and the ‘Upper School Student Resources’.
All-School
Need to know information for our entire Ka Makani ʻohana.
Performing Arts
Wizard of Oz Youth Edition
Get your tickets now to see the Village Campus production from March 1-2 at Gates Performing Arts Center!
Admissions
Re-enrollment to HPA for the 2025-26 academic year
If you have not yet secured your child’s space for the 2025-2026 academic year, please reach out to admissions@hpa.edu right away!
Admissions application is still open!
The admission application for the 2025-26 school year is open for new students! Spread the word and help us grow our Ka Makani ʻohana. You can also visit and share the link to our in-person and virtual Admission events page. We are excited to work with siblings of current students and prospective families new to HPA!
Auxiliary Services
Summer at HPA registration is open. Visit the Summer at HPA New Enrollment form to register for summer enrichment camps, swimming lessons, Ka Makani Keiki Camp, or Summer Academies.
Health and Wellness
We are asking that everyone routinely assess themselves for symptoms of illness — which can be mild, so please pay close attention. If you or your child(ren) develop any symptoms of illness, contact your healthcare provider and HPA Health Services at vcinfirmary@hpa.edu (Village Campus) or infirmary@hpa.edu (Upper Campus). Please keep your child(ren) home until they are no longer sick.
ʻOhana Association
If you missed the latest letter from our HPA ʻOhana Association president, be sure to catch up here.
Next up in our Wā Pilina ʻOhana Series is a tree-planting day with Parker Ranch’s forestry team led by Zachary Judd on Saturday, March 29 from 9:00 am to 12:00 Noon. Please sign up in advance and carefully read through all the details on how to best prepare for the day.
Our ʻOhana Association hosts a variety of events and activities for our school community throughout the year. As parents of HPA, you are automatically part of the ʻOhana Association. There are many ways to participate, and we encourage everyone to get involved. It is a great way to meet your fellow parents and support our amazing Ka Makani community. Mark your calendar for these upcoming events, and be sure to email ohana@hpa.edu with any questions, or to find out what volunteer opportunities are available!
Isaacs Art Center
39th Invitational Masters Wood Show
The 39th Invitational Masters Wood Show is now underway through Friday, February 28, 2025, with extended viewing possible through March. All items in the show are available for purchase. The exhibit is free and open to the public, Tuesday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm with appointments welcomed.
Isaacs Art Center has hosted the Hawaiʻi Wood Guild’s annual Invitational Masters Show since 2009. This year’s exhibition includes pieces by noted island artisans Tai Lake, Michael Felig, David Gomes, Michael Patrick Smith, Greg Pontius, David and Doni Reisland, Scott Hare, Paul Schürch, Mats Fogelvik, Alex Franceschini, Nicole Gomes, Scott Zuziak, Duane Millers, Jr., Marcus Castaing, Tom O’Connor, John Mydock, Robert Woodward, Kelly Dunn, Piergiorgio (Peter) Barbarich, Jimmy Wray, Llosh Winne, and Leslie Pedersen. The exhibition features turned and carved bowls, platters, demi-lune tables, and furniture accented with intricate designs in marquetry, pyrography, and careful bookmatching of beautiful wood. Locally sourced curly koa, mango, milo, and pheasant wood, along with old-growth fir, western red cedar, mahogany, Norfolk, and Cook pines are among the woods highlighted.
Isaacs Art Center is free and open to the public, Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Gallery works for sale may also be viewed on our website. Be sure to also visit our Instagram and Facebook pages for highlights from ongoing exhibitions. Sales from gallery artwork have supported the HPA Financial Aid program since its opening in 2004.
Safety Protocols
Campus Access
During this time, campus access is limited to current students, employees, essential contractors, and approved guests — all of whom have completed a daily thermal/symptom check and a screening questionnaire. Guests to campus will have had their hosting faculty or staff member fill out the appropriate form and will have received permission from their supervisor.
Should a family member of a student need a meeting with a faculty, staff, or administrative team member, kindly contact them so that they can apply to have you come to campus. From that point, security team members will be alerted to your appointment date and time and let you onto campus.
At the Upper School, please do not park and walk onto campus without an appointment. Similarly, at the Village Campus, kindly call or email for an appointment so that arrangements can be made. Mahalo, for your understanding and respect for this process.
If you See Something, Say Something
We ask all families to join HPA in keeping our campus safe. While on the HPA campus, if you see anything out of the ordinary, we ask that you please report it to the school or local authorities immediately. This will help us maintain the safest campus for our students.
- Imminent threat to life or property: call 911 immediately and email Mark Noetzel at mnoetzel@hpa.edu
- Anything out of the ordinary: email Mark Noetzel at mnoetzel@hpa.edu
CrisisGo for Parents
It is important that all families are set up with CrisisGo, HPA’s school emergency communication tool. To set up CrisisGo SMS/Email subscription, please click on this invitation link and complete the form by adding your name, email, and cell number (this is an important step if you would like to receive an SMS message) and click on the Subscribe button. Should an emergency occur, you will be alerted by email and SMS messaging. You can also locate these instructions by logging into myHPA, clicking on the resource tab, and selecting the CrisisGo Safe2SpeakUp tile.
Safe2SPeakUp for Middle and Upper Students
Similarly, Middle and Upper School students received instructions during orientation on how to upload the Safe2SpeakUp app. This is a companion app to CrisisGo. It will allow the school to alert students of emergencies that happen on or off campus and enable students to communicate with us about their safety status. They can also use the app to alert the school about any behaviors they are concerned about. Students can also locate instructions on setting up Safe2SpeakUp in myHPA, and they were also emailed the video shown at orientation which walks them through the process of uploading the app and registering, step-by-step.
All students can also submit an Online Bully/Harassment report by clicking on this link, which can also be located on the CrisisGo Safe2SpeakUp tile on myHPA.
myHPA Resource Boards
Past HPA communications and other important information can be found on myHPA. We are continuing to make updates to our student and parent resource boards, so please be sure to visit them regularly.