Curriculum

Kindergarten

Five-year-olds are started on a program developing visual perception, listening skills, vocabulary and speech, phonics, reading, and writing. Creative thinking, a sense of organization, independence, responsibility, as well as motor skills are developed through a variety of creative and academic activities. In Math, kindergartners learn the value of numbers and how to add, subtract, and problem solve. A little homework is given to help start good study habits and to develop a sense of responsibility.

Lower Elementary

Children in first, second, and third grades reinforce and sharpen the learning skills begun in kindergarten. Although the emphasis is still on reading, writing, arithmetic, a broader knowledge of science, health, social studies, and the cultural arts is further developed. The importance of good study habits, self- discipline, responsibility, and organization are stressed during these lower elementary years in order to be successful students and useful citizens in the community. During third grade, children are refining their reading skills and writing mechanics. Good study habits are stressed as short term projects and research papers are incorporated, so that a more sophisticated, thorough program may be continued in the upper grades. In math, students will have the basic fundamentals of adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, measuring fractions, and problem solving as applied in their various forms in every day life.

Upper Elementary

Classes are usually self-contained. Students in grades five and six may change classes in some subjects when the idea seems compatible to both pupils and teachers. Such an exchange allows the student to have the advantage of the very best a teacher may have to offer. Students are responsible for several research projects and reports to prepare them for Junior High.

Technology

Children in all grades attend weekly computer classes. Students develop skills including keyboarding, Internet proficiency and safety, and become familiar with using a variety of productivity applications. We focus on an understanding of computer operations, file management and organizational skills, and user interface navigation. Students are made aware of the impact of technology on the individual and society.

Culture and Language

Hawaiian Studies is included in the program for 4th grade. Students are taken on a journey into learning various important aspects about Hawaii Nei from ancient to monarchial times. Lessons are laced with hula, chants, stories, vocabulary, valuable information about our beautiful islands and occasional crafts. The school year is culminated with a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii.

Students in 2nd-6th grade take part in weekly taiko classes. They focus on form, technique, and patterns. Multiple drums are used during sessions to ensure a hands-on learning experience for each student.

Creative Activities

Art, music, drama, and physical education are incorporated academically, shared, or exchanged whenever possible for mutual enjoyment as well as personal development at all grade levels.