Week of 2/27/26

What's Happening at HPA This Week?

Message from the Head of School

Aloha HPA ʻohana,

In so many areas of our children’s lives it is often easiest to focus on the product. We see the awards, performances, college acceptances, and other recognitions that mark important milestones in a student’s journey. These outcomes are meaningful and worth celebrating. At the same time, both educational research and long experience in independent schools remind us that lasting success is most often rooted not in the outcome itself, but in the process that leads to it — the steady habits of effort, reflection, perseverance, and growth over time.

As the Zen teaching reminds us: before enlightenment, chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood, carry water. In other words, meaningful work does not change — we continue to show up for the daily practices that shape who our students become.

I share this not only as Head of School, but also as a current and past parent. Like many of you, I understand the natural hope we hold for our children’s future accomplishments. And yet, what ultimately proves most enduring are the daily experiences that shape character: learning to revise a paper (and revise again, and again), preparing for a performance, practicing after a tough loss, collaborating on a project, or simply showing up each day ready to engage. These small, consistent steps quietly build confidence.

We are seeing the results of that process across our community. As I highlighted with a note earlier this week, in this 2025-2026 academic year we are honored to have six Presidential Scholar nominees — the most on Hawaiʻi Island and among the highest in the state — alongside early college acceptances to some of the most selective colleges and universities in the country. These achievements are a testament not just to talent, but to years of guided learning, caring mentorship, and students who have embraced challenge and growth with integrity and curiosity.

At the same time, last week beautifully reflected the balance that defines a healthy educational process. From the joy and camaraderie of the Upper School Olympics, to the creativity and collaboration of the Middle School Lip Sync, to the energy and wonder of our K–2 performance, our campuses were filled with moments of play, expression, and connection. These experiences are not separate from academic growth; they are essential to it. They cultivate courage, belonging, and a willingness to take thoughtful risks.

As parents and educators together, we share the responsibility of keeping our focus on the long arc of development rather than any single result. When we center the process — grounded in respect, integrity, pursuit of excellence, and wonder — the outcomes follow in meaningful and lasting ways. I am proud of our students — everyone of them — not only when they receive accolades like this week, but just as often, when I see them in the steady rhythm of the day to day. Chop wood, carry water. It’s the consistent commitment to the process and the effort required to improve that builds character and confidence. That is something to be proud of every single day.

We’re just a week away from spring break. It can be easy to gaze out to the horizon and take our foot off the gas, but that’s not what Iʻm seeing around here. Folks are continuing to put in the work, solve the equations, practice the notes — getting every last bit out of this third quarter. Together we March forth 😉

Mahalo for your continued partnership in nurturing not only accomplished students, but thoughtful, resilient, and compassionate young people who see the value in a good day’s work.

Have a wonder-full weekend!

Gratefully,

Fred Wawner
Head of School

School Bulletins for the Week of 2/27/26

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!

This week has been filled with celebration, creativity, and meaningful learning both on campus and beyond.

We began the week together at our Lower School Assembly, where we welcomed several special guests and student presenters. Ms. Vivian He and our 8th grade students led us in learning about Lunar New Year — its significance, traditions, and even a few Mandarin greetings. With enthusiasm and thoughtfulness, they shared the meaning behind the celebration and gifted our learners hand-folded red envelopes symbolizing luck, prosperity, and good fortune for the year ahead. Our special guests also recently engaged in Wā Pilina, visiting our 2nd graders, who are currently exploring cultures and holidays around the world. The opportunity to learn directly from our older peers brought their studies to life in a meaningful and memorable way!

Our assembly also highlighted our incredible students across divisions. We welcomed a 2nd grade Student Spotlight, two students who sang “Try Everything,” our Peacemakers and their work to support conflict resolution, as well as 3rd graders who shared about their recent studies in art, offering a glimpse into the depth and creativity of their learning experiences.

We were especially inspired by 12th grader Olivia F., who spoke about shark awareness and caring for our oceans. Her advocacy and commitment to environmental stewardship were powerful examples of student voice and purpose in action — and a meaningful model for our 5th graders who are currently in the midst of their own Capstone journeys. Seeing that continuum of learning from Lower School through Upper School shows us what is possible when curiosity and care are nurtured over time.

K–2 Musical
Our K–2 musical last week was wonderful and our young performers made us proud! The excitement was palpable among our tortoises and hares! The courage it takes for our youngest performers to step onto the stage and share their voices is something to behold. Thank you to our faculty and families for supporting their preparation and confidence-building. If you would like to revisit their performance or missed it live, you can view the recording here.

Plant Sale — Happening Now
At the time of this writing, the Plant Sale is underway, and I hope you have the opportunity to connect together in support of our Ulumau Garden, help get a little more photosynthesis happening on our island, enjoy performances by our faculty band, and simply engage in community. How special it is when learning, stewardship, and fellowship come together!

Cubing Competition — Tomorrow
The Cubing Competition takes place tomorrow. We are excited to see our problem-solvers demonstrate their focus, perseverance, and pattern recognition skills. Whether it’s a first attempt or a personal record, we celebrate the dedication that goes into mastering a craft. Everyone is invited to watch and cheer on these cubers!

Professional Learning Beyond Campus — NAIS Conference
It has been difficult for me to be away from our wonderful Village Campus these past several days, but I feel heartened and have so much confidence in our amazing faculty and staff. The machine runs smoothly with their expertise and care for all our keiki. Here in Seattle, it has been an important several days of learning and representing HPA among fellow school leaders and educators at the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Conference this week. The experience has been both energizing and grounding — an opportunity to learn alongside dedicated educators from across the country and to reflect on the work that still lies ahead. Conversations, workshops, and learning exchanges reaffirmed the importance of staying focused on what matters most: supporting our learners and faculty with clarity, care, and purpose. I am grateful for the opportunity to share about our K–12 program and the thoughtful work happening across our campuses. It is a privilege to represent our school community and to exchange ideas in the same spirit of humility, aloha, and continuous growth that defines HPA.

Thank you, as always, for partnering with us in nurturing curious, confident, and culturally grounded learners. It is a privilege to walk alongside your children each day. I look forward to getting back home and reconnecting with you on Monday!

Have a beautiful weekend, Lower School ʻOhana!

Me ka mahalo nui,
Dora Kwong
Lower School Principal

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Schedule

Our K-5 classes continue with in-person instruction on our Village Campus on Monday, March 2.

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

• 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 Retail Order

Mana Robotics Engineering Camp – Register by March 6!

The HPA Mana Robotics Team is hosting a series of hands-on STEAM Engineering Camps for students ages 10-14. Campers will solder, code, 3D print, and build real working projects they get to take home.

Full Day
Date: March 26
Time: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm
Price: $270

Half Day
Dates: March 28, April 11, and April 18
Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm OR 1:30–4:00 pm
Price: $135

Each session is limited to 14 students, so spots will fill quickly. All proceeds support the team’s trip to the World Championship. Registration closes March 6.

More information

Want to support student opportunities like this beyond camp registration? Contributions can also be made through the HPA Fund, which makes programs like this possible at our school.

Make a gift

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.

Video Highlight of the Week: K-2 Musical

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,

As we approach the close of Quarter 3, our students are working hard to align the Core Skills of Communication, Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Collaboration with the academic growth they have made this semester. It has been wonderful to see them reflect on their progress and prepare to share their learning with you.

Please review the important updates and dates below:

Student Led Conferences are Thursday and Friday next week. There will be classes Monday through Wednesday only. Conferences are a required part of our Middle School program. Please refer to the previously sent email for scheduling details.
Today is the Village Campus Plant Sale immediately after school. Come support our garden program, enjoy the faculty band, and take home plants to start your spring garden.
Mahalo to all of our students for their incredible performances at last Friday’s Lip Sync Competition. Congratulations to Ms. M’s Advisory for taking home the top honor. Thank you to our parents who helped decorate, donate food, and clean up. It was truly a Many Hands Make Light Work moment.
Our 8th graders continue extending their learning beyond the classroom through Capstone projects, with several culminating activities taking place over Spring Break.
“Level the Playing Field” 5K on March 15 to benefit Kids Sports Hawaiʻi. See this registration link for details.
Mana Robotics program begins after Spring Break. This is an additional cost program that supports the Upper School Robotics team. Please review the flyer for more information.
World Cubing Competition takes place this weekend on campus. See the information below for event details.

It is a busy week leading into a well-earned break. Thank you for your continued partnership and support. It is fantastic to be Ka Makani.

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

Aloha,
Michael Cservenak
Middle School Principal

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4.23.26 Middle School Mega Lab Excursion