Week of 3/7/25
What's Happening at HPA This Week?
Message from the Head of School
Aloha HPA ʻohana,
The days following the Arena…the necessary pain.
You only get out of it what you put in. Well, when you put your whole heart and soul into things and it doesn’t work out the way you hoped, the end hurts. You wake up the following morning feeling like your best friend walked out on you and took the dog with ’em. Nothing tastes good, nothing fits right, and the thought of moving forward or in any direction for that matter only fizzles into a dull moment of blah. It’s that intersection of pride and humility that is necessary to navigate, often ending in collision. While we hope to get this experience to be more of a graceful merge like the modern roundabout, it often doesn’t go that way. It’s a collision and it hurts. And that is how it’s supposed to be.
It’s been two weeks now since I completed my annual “capstone” experience — coaching the boy’s varsity basketball team. I’ve been lucky enough to get this opportunity for the last 16 years at HPA (thank you board of trustees, faculty, and administration for your patience, understanding, and support). Dina wouldn’t want me around the house during winter season anyway. Truly.
The process is always a beautiful mix of things I can count on, and other things that are brand new. In sports, similar to the capstone experience for our students in 5th, 8th, and 12th grade, we take a group of diverse individuals with different ideas and abilities, establish some goals, and then get to work building skills around communication, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. We build structures, strategies, and common language in practice and then try them out in games. When they work, we fine tune them and try to replicate them. When they fail, we study why and try to fix them. We are in a constant iterative process, with a goal to be at our best at the end — the very end.
Sports are an easy metaphor for me, always have been. Feedback is immediate, very clear, and sometimes very public. You are where you are, end of sentence. In our case two Fridays ago, we were lucky enough to have folks view it on live television. It is an exceptional learning experience to be in a large coliseum, loud enough that you can only hear your teammates right next to you as you try to complete a series of plays together under the pressure of the opposing team and the bright lights of expectation and anticipation. In order to find success, you must actually slow your mind down to find your focus which leads to optimal performance. The balance of individual success and the willingness to sacrifice personal gain for the success of others is another natural growth point in the process. Just enough ego to prop up self-confidence, balanced with an egoless clarity that can identify how to help others while conversely depending on others in the very next heartbeat. These are skills that will translate well in future endeavors — but don’t come easily in a tournament setting, in front of a crowd.
This year’s culminating assessment, the HHSAA State championship game, came on the last possible hour of the last possible day of the season — that’s always the goal — to max out our time together and to grow as much as we can, together. Just like every year, there is only one winner.
So there I am, looking into teary eyes, through teary eyes, in a crowded locker room of UH-Mānoa’s Stan Sheriff Center, trying to explain to a group of young people that the pain they were feeling is a good pain, a necessary pain. It is the only way it should feel. Embrace it — feel every bit of it. When you sacrifice a great deal of time and effort, it hurts when it doesn’t work out. That feeling is both excruciating and rich. That’s all I had. I didn’t prepare to give a speech to kids that came up short. I believed in our plan, our path, and us. I think that’s ok too. I don’t like it, but I’ve learned that it is the feeling of heartbreak that we should be willing to risk enduring for the potential success of any venture.
On another day, I’ll explain to them that we should invest the same attention, care, and heart into everything we do, from our classes, to our jobs, to our projects, to our relationships. Be all in. Be vulnerable. Risk failure and pain. This is the pursuit of excellence. It is in constant process.
The agony of defeat comes with a few days of angst. Things I often think are funny, just aren’t.I usually grow a beard and debate getting a tattoo on my neck or collarbone, where it will hurt. I always consider changing careers to become a chef, gardener, or fisherman after hiding under a blanket in sweatpants watching multiple documentaries on each lifestyle. The pain eventually fades and then there is time for reflection. This leads to clarity, with new ideas on improvements, modifications and growth. It is a regenerative process. Time well spent. Time to get off the mat, shake off the pain, and get back at it. Whatever challenge is up next.
I am so grateful to have the opportunity to pursue excellence. In this way, HPA is an amazing platform for us all.
Have a wonder-filled spring break, y’all.
Gratefully,
Fred Wawner
Head of School
School Bulletins for the Week of 3/7/25
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!
As we wrap up this quarter and head into what I hope will be a rejuvenating Spring Break for all, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to our students, families, and staff for being wonderful supporters and partners in learning. Your dedication makes our school a thriving and vibrant community, and I am grateful.
We had a beautiful Village Campus Plant Sale event last week, and it was heartwarming to have so many families come together to support our 4th graders and their mission to get more photosynthesis happening on our island! Mahalo to everyone who contributed their time, energy, and resources to make it such a successful community event. From “spa” treatments to popsicles to our talented faculty band — we had a little something for everyone as you browsed our garden and enjoyed each other’s company. All proceeds go directly into our garden program which benefits our seven community partners, as well as our learning program within Ulumau Garden. I was sad to miss this beautiful event myself, though I had the tremendous privilege of representing our dear HPA at the National Association of Independent School’s annual conference, meeting with other school leaders, learning from each other’s programs, and supporting our collective mission of creating independent institutions of learning. How wonderful to be inspired by other schools in our network all across the country, and to also share about our own intentional programming we get to offer daily. Fortunately, I received a wonderful array of photos and messages celebrating the success of our students and got to experience a bit of it virtually in real time!
This past Wednesday was also a day to remember, as our 5th graders showcased their tremendous work in their capstone presentations. Those who were able to attend saw beautiful jewelry made from collected beach trash, a video game educating others on native and invasive species, a presentation on the history of hula, a kid-friendly gluten-free cookbook, sustainable pet beds, and so much more! Our individual presentations focused on the journeys each student traversed in this scholarly endeavor, the trials and tribulations along the way, what they learned from their mistakes, and how they persevered through it all. Truly, my favorite thing about our 5th-grade capstone program is our focus on the process, the path, and how we each gain and grow along the way. Our 5th-grade scholars’ passion, creativity, and hard work shone brightly, and we are incredibly proud of them for this milestone achievement. Thanks to all who supported our students, both near and far, especially Mrs. Emily Liu, Mr. Dagan Bernstein, Ms. Noriko Ostrem, Mrs. Mellon Monello, and Mrs. Kristin Tarnas!
Speaking of capstone, our 8th graders will continue their journey through the 4th quarter, and a couple of students wanted to share some updates:
August Z.: I hope you are having a great week. I would like to thank everyone who donated food to my capstone project, Feeding with Aloha. Your contributions have helped the food-insecure people of Waimea. All donations have been given to Annunciation Church and other local food pantry boxes, including 5th grader Jace Bʻs new boxes, to help feed those in need. Together, we collected over 150 items of non-perishable food. Without you all, this would not have been possible. Through this project, I have learned that nothing is impossible without the helping hands of a community. I am grateful to be part of this HPA community. Mahalo!
Bellarose L.: Hello HPA Students and Families, I’m Bellarose, an 8th grader. My Capstone project was about the importance of cooking and sharing recipes in cultures and communities. I created a website for the school community to use and access shared recipes. Thank you for all the recipes that were submitted—there were 50 in total! My website is now completed and can be accessed with this link or through the QR code on one of the posters that will be around campus. Thank you!
We rounded out this busy week with two days of Student-led Conferences. At HPA, we work to prioritize placing students at the center of their learning, empowering them to take ownership of their journey while recognizing the supportive role of the adults around them. Mahalo to all our families for holding this time as sacred and for engaging in meaningful conversations with their children about their learning and growth.
As we head into Spring Break, we also take time to recognize and celebrate Prince Kūhiō Day, a reminder of the lasting impact of a great Hawaiian leader. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to school on Tuesday, March 25 for the start of our final quarter of the year. See below for some upcoming dates for your calendar!
Wishing you all a restful and rejuvenating break!
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 Tuesday, March 25, following Spring Break and the observance of Prince Kūhiō Day on Monday.
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, 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 grades K-12
• Monday, March 24: Prince Kūhiō Holiday, no classes grades K-12
• Tuesday, March 25: Classes resume, grades K-12
• Friday, March 28 from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
• Thursday, April 3, from 7:45 to 8:15 am: 3rd-5th Grade Parents Health & Human Development lessons meeting; Village Campus Dining Hall
• Friday, April 4 at 3:30 pm: 5th-grade parents May Day meeting; Grade 5 classroom
• Thursday, April 10, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm: ʻOhana Association Parent Social and General Meeting; Isaacs Art Center, Village Campus
• Friday, April 11, from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
• Friday, May 2: K-5 May Day performance; GPAC
• Monday, May 5: K-8 Faculty Work Day, no classes grades K-8
• Tuesday, May 13 from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
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.
Summer at HPA
Ka Makani Keiki Camp
Lock in your summer plans! Open to grades K-5 — limited spots available.
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,
As we wrap up an eventful third quarter, I want to take a moment to celebrate all that our students have accomplished. From our Student-led Conferences to a spectacular musical performance and an electrifying Lip Sync competition, this quarter has been filled with energy, creativity, and hard work. A special shoutout to our winter athletics teams, who have represented HPA across the island with dedication and sportsmanship. Go Ka Makani!
With our school’s close connection to the Upper School boarding program, our community enjoys an extended Spring Break. Wherever your travels take you—whether across the island or beyond—our faculty and staff wish you a restful and enriching time away.
Honoring Prince Kūhiō
School will be closed on Monday, March 24th in observance of Prince Kūhiō Day. Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana‘ole (March 26, 1871 – January 7, 1922) was a Hawaiian prince, politician, and champion for Native Hawaiian rights. His efforts led to the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1921, securing land for Native Hawaiians to preserve their cultural traditions and way of life. His leadership and dedication continue to inspire generations.
Looking Ahead: The Fourth Quarter
We will return on Tuesday, March 25, ready to begin the final phase of the school year. As I shared in my last bulletin, middle school is a journey of growth and transition—and the fourth quarter is an exciting time to witness our students stepping into their next stage of learning and development.
Middle School Important Dates
Please carefully review the Coming Up section below and mark your calendars for upcoming key dates as we wrap up the academic year following Spring Break.
Student Spotlights: 8th-grade Capstone Projects
August Z.: Aloha HPA MS Families, I hope you are having a great week. I would like to thank everyone who donated food to my capstone project, Feeding with Aloha. Your contributions have helped the food-insecure people of Waimea. All donations have been given to Annunciation Church and other local food pantry boxes, including 5th grader Jace Bʻs new boxes, to help feed those in need. Together, we collected over 150 items of non-perishable food. Without you all, this would not have been possible. Through this project, I have learned that nothing is impossible without the helping hands of a community. I am grateful to be part of this HPA community. Mahalo!
Bellarose L.: Hello HPA Students and Families, I’m Bellarose, an 8th grader. My Capstone project was about the importance of cooking and sharing recipes in cultures and communities. I created a website for the school community to use and access shared recipes. Thank you for all the recipes that were submitted—there were 50 in total! My website is now completed and can be accessed with this link or through the QR code on one of the posters that will be around campus. Thank you!
As we head into Spring Break, I hope you all find time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of our island home. Looking forward to seeing you in Quarter 4!
Aloha always,
Michael Cservenak
Middle 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 Middle School 2024-2025 Daily Schedule continues with in-person instruction on our Village Campus on Tuesday, March 25, following Spring Break and the observance of Prince Kūhiō Day on Monday.
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, 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 grades K-12
• Monday, March 24: Prince Kūhiō Holiday, no classes grades K-12
• Tuesday, March 25: Classes resume, grades K-12
• Friday, March 28, from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
• Wednesday, April 9: Village Campus author visit with Christina Soontornvat (See HPA Taylor Library Newsletter)
• Thursday, April 10, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm: ʻOhana Association Parent Social and General Meeting; Isaacs Art Center, Village Campus
• Friday, April 11, from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
• Wednesday, April 16: Middle School capstone presentations
• Thursday, April 17 & Friday, April 18: Upper School capstone presentations
• Saturday, April 26: 8th-grade Dinner Dance; Anna Ranch
• Friday, May 2: Lower School May Day celebration; GPAC
• Monday, May 5: K-8 Faculty Work Day, no classes grades K-8
• Tuesday, May 13 from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
• Monday, May 21: 8th-grade Transition Ceremony & the last day of classes
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.
Summer at HPA
Summer Academies at HPA
Do you have a passion you want to pursue this summer? Our specialized four-week academies are designed for day and boarding middle and high school students.
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,
As we begin the final quarter of the school year, I want to thank everyone: students, faculty, staff, and families for their work to make HPA “a place to learn like nowhere else”! With many accomplishments already achieved, we have a tremendous amount of opportunity ahead of us as we near the end of the school year.
Upper School Important Dates
Please carefully review the Coming Up section below and mark your calendars for upcoming key dates as we wrap up the academic year following Spring Break.
For those of you who are looking ahead, we have also released our Key Dates 2025-26 for the upcoming school year. As a reminder, these dates are subject to change. Always be sure to check the myHPA calendar for the very latest updates.
Honoring Prince Kūhiō
School will be closed on Monday, March 24th in observance of Prince Kūhiō Day. Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana‘ole (March 26, 1871 – January 7, 1922) was a Hawaiian prince, politician, and champion for Native Hawaiian rights. His efforts led to the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1921, securing land for Native Hawaiians to preserve their cultural traditions and way of life. His leadership and dedication continue to inspire generations.
Mahalo,
Mark Noetzel
Assistant Head of School for Upper School
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 an ʻUla day with in-person instruction on our Upper Campus on Tuesday, March 25, following Spring Break and the observance of Prince Kūhiō Day on Monday.
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 10 – Monday, March 24: Spring Break, no classes grades K-12
• Monday, March 24: Prince Kūhiō Holiday, no classes grades K-12
• Tuesday, March 25: Classes resume, grades K-12
• Friday, March 28, from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
• Sunday, March 30 to Wednesday, April 2: Hawaiʻi State Science Fair
• Thursday, April 10, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm: ʻOhana Association Parent Social and General Meeting; Isaacs Art Center, Village Campus
• Friday, April 11, from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
• Thursday, April 17 & Friday, April 18: Senior capstone presentations
• Saturday, April 19: Senior Prom at the Four Seasons Hualalai
• Monday, May 5 to Friday, May 16: AP Exams
• Saturday, May 10 to Friday, May 16: International Science Fair (Ohio)
• Monday, May 12: Upper School Awards Ceremony; GPAC
• Tuesday, May 13 from 12:30 to 3:00 pm: HPA Garden Community Work Day; Village Campus, Ulu Mau Garden
• Thursday, May 22: Class of 2025 Baccalaureate Service; Davies Memorial Chapel (ticketed event)
• Friday, May 23: Class of 2025 Commencement Ceremony; Castle Gymnasium (ticketed event)
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
- March 10-23: Spring Break – Spring Break
- March 24: Prince Kūhiō 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
Scholarships are 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
Happy Spring Break! As students begin to head out for the break, we wish everyone safe travels and a good vacation these next two weeks! The third quarter is always our busiest time of year, with a packed varsity athletics schedule, International Day, Olympics, the Winter Production, senior capstone projects hitting the ground, a school dance, Lava Lounge, and so, so much more! We hope that our students return to you with stories to tell! I am sure they are ready for a break, and will return to us in two weeks well-rested and ready to make the final push to summer!
Over the break, rising Juniors (℅ 2027) and Seniors (℅ 2026) will have an application sent to them to apply for the position of Dormitory Prefect. This is an important leadership role in our community, and one that we hire carefully. The students selected for this role are students that the faculty trust to manage the day to day business of the dormitories, act as peer counselors, conflict mitigators, and upholders of our community standards. We encourage all interested and eligible students to apply, as sometimes even just having the conversation about leadership and their role in the community can be valuable to them. The applications will be due at the end of March, and the interview process will proceed from there. Selected students should know the final decision before the end of April. Students who choose to take on this role are asked to return to campus four days ahead of their peers, where they will engage in a rigorous leadership training program to prepare them for the year ahead. We look forward to talking with many of our students about this role in the coming weeks.
Again, we wish everyone safe travels and a good break! If your child experiences any changes in their travel plans, flight delays, cancellations, or other complications, please reach out as soon as possible!
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
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.
Driver Education
Students who are 15½ through 17 years old must meet stringent requirements to obtain a driver’s license in the state of Hawai’i. One of the major requirements is completing a state-certified driver education course and road time with both a certified driving instructor and parents before getting a license.
This course is offered to students with a valid (current) Hawai’i learner permit. The course includes 6 hours of “behind-the-wheel” practice driving sessions with the instructor, to be scheduled outside of class time. There is a mandatory Parent & Student orientation on Saturday before the class begins, June 1, 9:00-10:30 am. 50 hours driving time with a parent/guardian (including 10 hours of night driving) will be required before a minor (under 18) may apply for a Hawai’i Driver License. After 50 hours, the parent/guardian must submit a notarized statement to the teacher to receive the final certificate for this course. Certificates cannot be issued until 6 weeks after the
beginning of the course, July 15.
Dates: June 2-13
Ages: 15 1/2 – 17
Times: 9:00 am to 12:30 pm
Cost: $550
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’.
HPA Today
Summer Academies at HPA
Do you have a passion you want to pursue this summer? Our specialized four-week academies are designed for day and boarding middle and high school students.
All-School
Need to know information for our entire Ka Makani ʻohana.
Admissions
Mahalo to all families who have re-enrolled for the upcoming academic year! For families who are late or are experiencing any technical difficulties, please reach out to our office as soon as possible. The new enrollment offers have gone out to all of the applicants who have been accepted to HPA and our community is growing beautifully. We wish you a wonderful Spring Break and thank you for your partnership!
Advancement
Support the HPA Fund Before Spring Break!
Aloha HPA ‘ohana! This is the final All-School Bulletin before spring break, making it the perfect time to show your love❤️ for HPA by supporting the HPA Fund. Your generosity helps enhance every student’s experience and strengthens our school community. If you haven’t given yet, now is the time!
We appreciate your support and wish you a wonderful, refreshing spring break! Mahalo!
Internship Opportunity: HPA Sustainable Agriculture and Community Outreach
The school is seeking applications for two interns for the Sustainable Agriculture and Community Outreach program. Successful candidates will apprentice at Ulu Mālama Terrace Farm and the Ulumau Garden at the HPA Upper Campus and Village Campus respectively. Interns will serve as our community food outreach coordinator; connecting the school gardens to our Waimea community.
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, March 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.