Special Programs

Languages - Our elementary students participate in twice weekly Japanese language and culture classes, as well as classroom instruction in Hawaiian language and culture through Kupuna (elders). Many grade levels participate in further study of Hawaiian cultural practices as part of their social studies curriculum. Our middle school students have a choice of Spanish, Hawaiian, or Japanese language and culture classes twice a week.

 

Visual Art - Elementary classes have once weekly art classes with an art teacher, who is also a practicing artist. Activities include fiber arts, ceramics, and various two and three dimensional media, as well as art history and learning of concepts and principles of art. Many classroom teachers incorporate art into frequent classroom tasks. Middle school students have a choice of various art electives each semester, taught by different practicing artists. In recent years, student work has often earned awards at local and state art competitions, such as Young at Art and Volcano Art Center's annual Hawai'i Nei juried exhibit of art in celebration of native species.

 

Performing Arts/Theater - Each spring, K-3 students perform in a musical and theatrical production created to teach about the Hawaiian environment. School-wide circus arts productions incorporate an array of skills and offer opportunities to showcase diverse talents while working with professional artists and choreographers. Middle school students perform plays twice yearly, as part of their theater arts class under the direction of Suzi Bond, founder of the Kilauea Drama and Entertainment Network. The plays focus on melodramas and other comedies.

 

Music - Elementary students have twice weekly music classes, featuring opportunities to learn a wide variety of instruments and focusing on Polynesian music (Hawaiian, Maori, Samoan, Tongan, etc.), including accompanying dance and use of implements. Middle school students can sign up for electives in various areas of music, such as ukulele or band. After school classes are also offered (free or at reasonable cost) by experienced teachers in various instruments and chorus.

 

Special Events - Besides the above mentioned events, annual special events include a May Day multicultural and Polynesian celebration; a two week Japanese Cultural Festival featuring visiting students from Waseda University in Japan, a Community Service Day, and Founders’ Day. Several fundraisers are also annual truly fun events, such as the Thanksgiving Weekend Cookie Sale and spring Art Auction. Another powerful fundraiser is a fall Walkathon, supporting student health as well as school programs. The school has an annual Book Fair to promote family literacy, and a Family Math Night for fun math games and learning. Each year, other special events are added as opportunities arise.