Charter School Network Recognizes Two Kona Schools

Two Hawai’i Public Charter Schools in Kailua-Kona will receive recognition from the Hawai’i Public Charter Schools Network, according to a Wednesday network release.

Both Innovations New Century Public Charter School and West Hawai’i Explorations Academy will be recognized during the 4^th Annual Hawai’i Charter Schools awards dinner that will take place in May at the Dole Cannery on Oahu.

Innovations New Century PCS will be recognized as the “Most Improved Charter School,” while West Hawai’i Explorations Academy will be honored as one of two schools “Creating New Best Practice.”

In addition to the school awards, Jennifer Hiro of Innovations New Century PCS will be honored as “Charter Leader of the Year.” Mary Quijano of Na Wai Ola Public Charter School, Heather Nakakura of WHEA, and Kananinohea Makaimoku of Ke Kula o Nawahiokalaniopuu Iki Laboratory Public Charter School will be honored with the “Circle of Teaching Excellence” award.

“We look forward to celebrating the innovation and achievement that happens every in charter classrooms across Hawai’i,” said Lynn Finnegan, Executive Director of the Hawaii Public Charter Schools Network. “This year’s theme, ‘Changing the Education Paradigm,’ encompasses what charter schools are all about. Despite many challenges, charter schools are doing more with less and delivering effective models of education.”

Finnegan continued, “Through our advocacy and support services, HPCSN works to help schools navigate these challenges, especially those unique to charter schooling in Hawai’i, so that charter schools can focus on what they do best, educating students.”

The awards dinner will be held in the Pomaikai Ballroom at Dole Cannery on Oahu from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on May 14.