Week of 2/20/26

What's Happening at HPA This Week?

Message from the Head of School

Aloha HPA ʻohana,

It is that time of year again — the time when Theodore Roosevelt’s famous “Man in the Arena” speech feels especially alive across both campuses:

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. 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; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”

It is a season of arenas at HPA — classrooms, stages, fields, and gathering spaces where our students step forward with tenacity and joy. This week, that spirit is igniting in real time alongside the celebration of Lunar New Year and the Year of the Fire Horse — a symbol of determination and bold forward motion. It feels especially fitting for our school community, so full of momentum.

Our youngest learners are setting the tone in the most delightful way. Our K–2 students brought the wisdom of The Tortoise and the Hare to life through their musical on Friday — reminding all of us that perseverance, patience, and steady effort still matter in a fast-moving world. Man, do I need some of that from time to time. It mirrors the powerful and steady way learning unfolds with our young ones: one brave step at a time.

Tonight, our Middle School community will take the stage for the much-anticipated Lip Sync — a beloved HPA stronghold that blends performance, collaboration, humor, and confidence into a fun advisory competition. It takes real courage — not to mention moves and an incredible memory — to step into that spotlight! Advisors and students alike have been preparing, encouraging one another, and embracing the fun of being fully present in the moment. Trust me, I would need quite the costume and pep-talk to get out there…I quite often consider what my lip sync song of choice will be if I get the call—so many options! Different from my karaoke choice, of course, but equally as critical and terrifying!

Across the Upper School, the HPA Olympics have been in full swing. It’s one of our most enduring traditions and a true expression of play, teamwork, and spirited confidence. In a fun and timely parallel, the global stage in Italy keeps bringing us nightly joy, reminding us that, like here at HPA, competition, culture, and camaraderie transcend borders (and grade levels). Our symbolic Ka Makani torch may be a red mop handle, but the pride and connection it represents are entirely real.

What stands out most this week is not any single event, but the collective energy of a diverse community fully engaged — rehearsing, racing, presenting, cheering, learning and laughing together. Like the Fire Horse, our students move with purpose; like those in the arena, they are willing to try, take risks, and to grow.

In every performance, every practice, and every moment of encouragement, we are witnessing learning in its most authentic form. This week, in so many different arenas, our students are showing us that growth happens when we show up and support one another, stepping bravely forward, even when the outcome is not assured.

A special mahalo to our faculty and staff—the planning, dedication, and behind-the-scenes hustle that support these experiences are truly extraordinary.

Have a wonder-full weekend!

Gratefully,

Fred Wawner
Head of School

School Bulletins for the Week of 2/20/26

Lower School

Each week, K–5 families receive updates highlighting joyful moments, meaningful lessons, and a glimpse into what students and parents can look forward to in the weeks ahead.

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News & notes

Aloha Lower School ʻOhana!

Our K–2 musical is taking center stage this week, and it has been a joy to watch our young learners shine as they share their voices, confidence, and creativity with our community. Performances like these beautifully reflect the courage, persistence, and collaboration that grow through the arts, and we are so proud of our students and teachers for bringing this production to life. Our Lower School musicals are always a result of a great deal of collaboration – students help to arrange the songs, shape the script, and develop the performance. Highlighting songs from many cultures to reflect our community and learn about our world is always an important component. If you were unable to attend today, our production team will soon send you the link to enjoy at home. Congratulations to our many tortoises, hares, and performers!

A friendly reminder that Student-Led Conferences are approaching. These conferences, on March 5 and 6th, are a meaningful opportunity for students to share their learning journeys, reflect on their growth, and celebrate progress with you. We look forward to welcoming families onto campus for this special time of connection and reflection. This year, our LS Student Council is also hosting a sustainable book swap at the welcome tables, so bring any gently used books to share and take books home to enjoy over spring break!

Next week, I will be off-island Tuesday through Friday, representing Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy at the National Association of Independent Schools Annual Conference, where school leaders from across the country gather to learn, collaborate, and bring new ideas back to their communities. It is a privilege to represent HPA in this capacity, and I look forward to returning with insights that will continue to support and strengthen our Lower School program!

I hope many of you will enjoy the Plant Sale next week, on Friday, February 27, 3-5 pm. Our 4th graders have been hard at work learning and preparing for our annual event celebrating sustainability and our shared connection to ʻāina. In addition to purchasing plants for your own gardens or as gifts, it is always a wonderful time to enjoy the festive atmosphere, enhanced beautifully by our very own faculty band!

Capstone Update

Finally, here is an update on our 5th-grade Capstone, from K-8 Capstone Coordinator, Mr. Dagan Bernstein:

Aloha mai kākou. Following months of community interviews, creative ideation, and the “final push” to complete their products and presentations, it is time to announce the 2026 5th Grade Capstone Exhibition. We are excited to invite Grade 5 families to join us on Wednesday, March 4, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the Village Campus to celebrate this significant milestone.

The event will begin with an All-Student Exhibition at 12:00 pm, where families are invited to explore the diverse range of projects on display, from original musical compositions, animated storytelling, and native plant guides. This will be followed by Oral Presentations starting at 12:30 pm in the Grade 4 and 5 classrooms, the Library, and the Maker Space. During these sessions, students will share their “Hero’s Journey,” reflecting on their initial research, the challenges of the building phase, and their personal growth throughout the year.

We look forward to seeing our Grade 5 families there as our youngest Capstone students channel their creativity into this culminating launch!

Mahalo for your continued partnership, and see you all soon.

Have a beautiful weekend, Lower School ʻOhana!

Me ka mahalo nui,
Dora Kwong
Lower School Principal

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4.21.26 Lower School Isaac Art Gallery Wa Pilina Exhibit

Schedule

Our K-5 classes continue with in-person instruction on our Village Campus on Monday, February 23.

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 27: Village Campus Plant Sale

• Wednesday, March 4: 5th Grade Capstone Presentations

• Thursday, March 5 and Friday, March 6: LS/MS Student-Led Conferences

• Thursday, March 5 and Friday, March 6: LS Student Council Sustainable Book Swap

• March 7-22: Spring Break

HPA Testimonials

One of the most meaningful ways you can support our school is by sharing your experience through a review on FindingSchool and Niche. Your perspective helps prospective families better understand what makes our community special.

These reviews allow us to tell our story through the voices that matter most, highlight the experiences of our students and families, and ensure families who are searching for the right fit can truly see what learning here looks and feels like.

World Cubing Association

We’re excited to announce that the World Cubing Association (WCA) official competition is coming to HPA on Saturday, February 28! Whether you’re a seasoned speedcuber or just getting started, this is your chance to compete, connect, and celebrate the cubing community.

Location: HPA Village Campus: Hale ʻĪnana
Date: Saturday, February 28
Time: 8 am – 4 pm

Competitors will test their skills across a variety of WCA-recognized events. Spectators are welcome, come cheer on your friends and watch some of the fastest solves in Hawaiʻi.

Highlights

• Officially sanctioned WCA competition
• Multiple speedcubing events
• Community fun and excitement
• Open to cubers of all ages and levels

Let’s make this an unforgettable day of cubing, community, and fun!

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, 2025-2026.

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, 6–8 families receive updates reflecting on recent activities and accomplishments, along with a preview of what students and parents can look forward to in the coming days.

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News & notes

Aloha Middle School Families,

I continue to be inspired by the vulnerability and showmanship our students bring to our annual Lip Sync Competition. This week, the campus has been alive with Disco beats and Hard Rock Ballads echoing through advisory rehearsals. What stands out most is not just the choreography, but the leadership, collaboration, and courage our students demonstrate as they prepare to take the stage. We hope you enjoy tonight’s celebration.

The Lip Sync Dance begins at 6:00 p.m. for students. Parents are encouraged to arrive by 7:15 p.m. to find a seat before the Lip Sync show and competition begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. Our judges this year are Ms. Kwong, Aunty Lynn, Aunty Dot, and our special celebrity guest judge, Kūmu Kūwalu. While there will be winners announced, the true success of the evening is the spirit of fun, connection, and pilina that fills Hale ʻĪnana.

Please be sure to review the recent emails regarding Student Led Conferences. Families only need to schedule a conference with their child’s advisor. During the conference, your student will present a comprehensive portfolio of work, including artifacts and data that reflect growth and performance across their classes. Student-led conferences take place on March 5 and 6 and are an essential part of our Middle School program.

For our 8th-grade families, you may notice your students are deeply engaged in the culminating phases of their Capstone projects, often working beyond campus in the community. Capstone is not only about an individual project; it also reflects a student’s ability to collaborate, support classmates, and contribute meaningfully to a shared learning experience.

Looking ahead, please join us next Friday, February 27, for the Village Campus Plant Sale immediately after school. This is a wonderful opportunity to support our garden program and gather plants to jumpstart your spring garden. The Faculty Band will also be performing, adding to the joyful atmosphere.

I am also so excited to inform our community of a scholarship opportunity: The Pauahi Foundation Hūilili Scholarship. This scholarship — for rising 6th- and 9th-graders — supports Hawaiʻi residents in their pursuit of a private school education. Please see the link above for all information.

Mahalo for your partnership and support. Have a wonderful weekend.

Aloha,
Michael Cservenak
Middle School Principal

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