Kula Kaiapuni 'o Waiau Information

The Kaiapuni program is an integral part of Waiau Elementary School. It is not considered a separate school. Our school campus provides opportunities for students to develop and thrive in both English and in Hawaiian. Teachers and students work together to fulfill our school’s vision, mission and core values.

Kula Kaiapuni ʻo Waiau has continuously provided quality education through the medium of the Hawaiian language. We strive to offer curriculum through educational approaches that are consistent with what our kupuna did and are in line with the current research on education and language acquisition. The program goals are to:

• Attain a high level of Hawaiian language proficiency

• Develop a strong foundation of Hawaiian culture and values

• Empower students to be responsible and caring members of our community

• Ensure the knowledge and skills in all content areas are consistent with the DOE goals and standards

Key components to our program include:

• Long-term commitment between the student, teacher, family, and school community

• Kindergarten through Grade 4 classrooms are Hawaiian Language only environments

• Formal English instruction begins in Grade 5

• Participation in resource classes and co-curricular activities are available to ALL students: Music, P.E., library, technology, guidance, field trips, chorus, ʻukulele, violn, track team, basketball team, robotics, and media club.

Student success depends heavily on family involvement. Parents must believe in and commit to the Kaiapuni philosophy. The following are suggestions for parents:

• Have students come to school on time daily prepared to learn

• Use your child's Hawaiian name

• Communicate with the kumu & school

• Read and sign your child’s planner daily along with any notices and forms

• Support your child with homework

• Have Hawaiian books and a Hawaiian dictionary readily available at home

• Participate in field trips, meetings, activities and fundraisers

• Take Hawaiian language classes and learn along with your keiki

• Connect with other Kaiapuni families

• Surround yourself with Hawaiian at home. Listen to Hawaiian music, label household items, attend community events.

How to Enroll

• Kindergarten registration begins in February for the following school year. All students must be five (5) years old when school begins in the fall.

• Students who live outside of Waiau's geographic area no longer need to complete a Geographic Exception form. Parents can come in to Waiau and complete the registration form.

• Late registrations will be accepted if openings are available.

• Families interested in enrolling after the kindergarten year must schedule an appointment with an administrator.