Hālau Kupukupu Summer Academy Apps Available

Kamehameha Schools Hawaiʻi campus is now accepting applications for its innovative take on summer school.

Hālau Kupukupu Summer Innovations Academy is a four-week learning adventure that engages students in fun, hands-on experiences in and out of the classroom.

As action researchers, students take field trips, learn from community experts and explore the rich outdoor learning environment of Moku o Keawe (Hawai‘i Island).

The program offers incredible educational opportunities that are meant to inspire passion for learning and enable young learners to be successful and prepared for the next school year.

“An integral part of Kamehameha Schools Hawai‘i, our summer academy promises to ignite passion for learning, curiosity, innovative thinking and a deeper sense of Hawaiian identity,” said Joy Motta, Hālau Kupukupu poʻo kumu (principal). “In collaboration with local and global industry leaders, community practitioners, scientists, engineers and artists, our team of dynamic educators is re-imagining, researching, and designing incredible learning opportunities for students in grades K through 12.”

Ideal applicants should be committed to full attendance and be willing to try something new when it comes to learning. The program will run from June 15 to July 13.

Applications are due by Feb.15; however, families are encouraged to apply early as spaces are limited.

Current KS Hawaiʻi students should register using KS Connect. Non-campus students can apply online. There, families can find the course catalog with descriptions of the various offerings this summer as well as more information on tuition, transportation and the application process.

“Hālau Kupukupu is a metaphor for a special place of learning,” Motta said. “Like kupukupu ferns awakened by the light of the sun, unfurling and flourishing, we hope our students will learn about the importance of character as they become good and industrious haumāna envisioned by Ke Ali‘i Pauahi and the next generation of ‘ōiwi Hawai‘i leaders who will steward our future.”