KO MĀKOU ALAKAʻI KO MĀKOU KAIĀULU
VOYAGER OUR LEADER, OUR COMMUNITY
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES OFFICERS Katherine G. Richardson, President Volunteer
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David W. Pratt, Vice President & Chair, Development Retired Executive Laura Cushnie Vice President President, Cushnie Construction Company, Inc.
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Samuel W. Pratt, Treasurer & Chair, Finance President, Niu Pia Land Company, Ltd Charles G. King, Ass’t.Treasurer Managing General Partner of Kaonoulu Ranch Sonia Topenio, Secretary Senior Vice President & Island Manager Kaua‘i Business Banking Center, Bank of Hawaii
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Christine Ing, Ass’t. Secretary & Chair, Academic Affairs Business Manager, Kaua‘i Dental Care MEMBERS
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Head of School Farewell Address L. Shannon Graves New Head of School Welcome Address Kate Conway Make A Difference at Island School Ways You Can Give Distance Learning We Are All In This Together Class of Twenty-Twenty Our Graduates Senior Ki‘ilani Arruda Voyager to Miss Teen Hawai‘i USA Voyager Athletics Scholar Athletes Where Are They Now Alumni Updates Connect With Us Social Media and Important Dates
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David J. Bissell Debra Blachowiak Tanya Gamby James Guerber Cynthia Hannah-White Alan King
Wade Lord Janet Mayfield David W. Proudfoot Laura Ryan Will Summerhays Marc Ventura
Director Emeritus Lindsay Kamm Ex-Officio L. Shannon Graves, Head of School
ADMINISTRATION L. Shannon Graves, Head of School Sean Magoun, Director of Institutional Advancement Liz Hubbard, Development Assistant Bianca Mendoza, Development Associate/Alumni Relations Jamie Prem, Development Associate/Marketing
Member: National Association of Independent Schools, Hawaiʻi Association of Independent School
Accredited by: Western Association of Schools And Colleges (WASC), Hawaiʻi Association of Independent Schools (HAIS) and National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
MAHALO & ALOHA Earlier this year I announced my intention of moving out of state to pursue another Head of School opportunity. As I look back on my tenure as Head of School the past five years, a few highlights come to mind. Most importantly, I want to reiterate it has been a pleasure working with all the quality people in the Kaua‘i community that have embraced our family. I attribute the enjoyment of this experience to the caliber of people in the Island L. School family which include faculty and staff, students, alumni, our Board of Directors and parents. The highlights of my tenure were collaborating with students daily in providing an excellent student centered education and in developing partnerships with both Kaua‘i Community College and Kamehameha Schools. We doubled our pre-K program from 20 to 40 students and Native Hawaiian students from 44 to 90. Another accomplishment is the growth in enrollment from 376 students when I began my appointment in 2015 to 426 students in 2020. Additionally, our standardized testing and Advanced Placement test scores have increased each year. Island School ranks third in the state among private schools with an average score of 640 in math and 637 in reading on the SAT. Our average score on Advanced Placement exams is 3.66. Because of the high expectations for our students, Island School is poised for continued growth in academics. Island School is a fantastic school and Kaua‘i is a fabulous community. I have had the privilege of watching two of my children graduate from here. Board President Kathy Richardson and I have worked together during this time of transition of my Head of School duties so that the school continues to function smoothly after my departure. With the appointment of Kate Conway, exciting days lie ahead as Island School embarks on a new era with Kate’s experience in private school education. I am pleased with the selection and wish Kate and Island School every success. When I was appointed Head of School in 2015, academically the school had a solid reputation, and we continued to build on the strengths of the academic opportunities for our students while developing partnerships with the community to expand enrollment, and make Island School attractive to students from all over Kaua‘i. We made strides in expanding extra-curricular activities and athletics to develop a well-rounded education for our families. We added basketball, won three league titles in boys cross country, sent numerous athletes to state competitions in track, cross country, air riflery, swimming,
SHANNON GRAVES / HEAD OF SCHOOL . golf, and tennis. Volleyball and soccer teams are more competitive and are on the verge of qualifying for states. Due to the increase in participation and competitiveness in athletics, we plan to add baseball and girls basketball in the coming school year. Chorus concerts continue to excel and sell out within 24 hours. The Mock Trial team won the State Championship in 2018, Science Olympiad dominates at the county level, drama productions continue to provide opportunity for our students to gain confidence speaking in front of audiences. State and county level art awards are common for our students as well as recognition in the state spelling bee. Senior Capstone and National Honor Society projects continue to tackle many issues that affect all of us and help to educate our greater community. Island School students excel in all aspects of the educational experience because they are surrounded by students and faculty that have a desire to be great. The next step is to continue to develop the commitment to fundraising and development so that we can build additional classrooms for our students as we have outgrown our current classroom buildings. Financially the school is debt free and uses its resources conservatively while providing for the needs of students and teachers. However, the need to make a concentrated effort to develop a culture of philanthropy is instrumental in expanding the already exceptional opportunities offered to our students. I want to thank the Island School community for the opportunity to work for you and the Island School students. I wish the board, faculty and staff, and our students all the best and I look forward to hearing about the continued growth and excellence produced by Island School children. Sincerely,
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voyage, we had no choice but to sail through a hurricane. For each watch, we would pull on our still-damp foul weather gear, clip our safety harnesses onto various parts of the ship to avoid being washed overboard, and put what we had learned in classrooms to use in real life. We navigated, researched, and managed ship life lurching up, down, back, and forth in tumultuous seas. I have never been so sick, and wrote in my journal that if land had been even a few miles away, I would have tried to swim to shore. Days later, the seas calmed, the sun appeared, and we had “Field Day” - a very cheery name for a deep-cleaning of the entire ship. My group was assigned the “fridge” - a somewhat cold walkMRS. KATE CONWAY / NEW HEAD OF SCHOOLI in compartment in the depths of the ship. As I put my weak elbow grease to work, scrubbing the walls, floors, and everything not food, I began to feel my strength return. From the literal bottom, we worked our way out into the sunlight, where we had a celebration of fair weather on our sparkling ship. We had weathered the storm through hard work, dedication, and caring for one another, and come out the other side more skilled, confident, and a stronger team. I firmly believe that Island School and Kaua‘i as a whole From the moment I discovered Island School, I knew I will weather this pandemic as well, coming together to find wanted to be a part of “Educating the mind, inspiring strength through connection and action. the heart. Preparing Kaua‘i’s youth to lead lives of significance.” Becoming a Voyager resonates deeply For any school at any time, the arrival of a new Head is a with my educational philosophy, in which we are all on a great opportunity to review, reflect, and determine the journey of engagement, inquiry, action, connection, and next stage of the voyage. This is even more important at a reflection in a community of learning that includes realtime when the entire world is realizing that we may need to world connections, meaningful relationships, sustainable reevaluate our lives and systems on all levels from personal structures, and opportunities for joy. I see this in action at to global. We are perfectly poised to review our strengths Island School-working as a cohesive team, upholding the and goals, renew our commitment to the direction of values of Mālama and Kuleana as we chart our course and our voyage, and work together to balance tradition and navigate our growth into unique individuals who make up a innovation for excellence in education. So many traditions strong Island School ‘ohana. and initiatives are key to the Island School experience, and we can build upon these strengths. I look forward to This spring has brought world events with an impact meeting each and every person in the Island School ‘ohana, only imagined in works of fiction and film. We will have and listening to your thoughts about Island School. some choppy waters to navigate as both a local and global community, and because of this, opportunities to find our greatest strengths and reaffirm our sense of community and My family and I are thrilled to join Island School and make a life together on Kaua‘i. When I visited in March, I felt commitment to action. I am sure that our school’s focus on an immediate connection and look forward to further nurturing awareness, civic responsibility and connection, developing relationships with everyone and becoming a part creativity, and curiosity will allow us to grow stronger of the ‘ohana. through these challenges.
ALOHA ISLAND SCHOOL ‘OHANA,
In college, I spent a semester studying oceanographic research, nautical science, and maritime studies, including six weeks on a 125’ schooner, four of which were entirely at sea before reaching our first port. Three days into our
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Sincerely,
VOYAGER Fund A warm aloha and mahalo to everyone who has made a gift to the VOYAGER Fund so far this year. Now we’re on a mission to connect with as many alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends as possible to invite you to participate before the fund closes on June 30. Because there is power in numbers. When you make a gift to the VOYAGER Fund, you help create a level of education beyond the common education. Think hands-on learning trips, interactive and innovative programs, enriching curricular materials, and upgrading and beautifying indoor and outdoor spaces. We are all important to our mission. Many of us on Kaua‘i and around the world love Island School. Every great school needs passionate supporters who share the responsibility for its care and vitality. Please join in with a gift. Together for Island School. Mahalo! TO MAKE A GIFT, GO ONLINE AT WWW.ISCHOOL.ORG/GIVING. If you have already made your gift, please accept our gratitude. 5 Spring Edition
MAKE A DIFFERENCE at Island School How You Can Give
There are many ways to give to Island School. Gifts fall into two main categories: Outright Giving and Planned Giving.
Outright Gifts
The majority of gifts to Island School are made in cash, or cash equivalents, as outright gifts to meet the school’s immediate financial needs. The following gifts can be donated outright or incorporated into an estate plan: Cash or cash equivalents: Transactions are simple and afford immediate and direct tax benefits. Cash, checks, and credit card gifts may be sent to the school. Credit cards may be used for quick and convenient online giving at www. ischool.org/giving or may be called into the Institutional Advancement Office at (808) 246-0233. Securities: Gifts of appreciated securities or bonds allow you to make donations to the school with tax benefits that include market value tax deductions and avoidance of capital gains’ liabilities. For transfer instructions, call the Business Office at (808) 246-0233. Matching Gifts: Many companies support their employees donations by matching the funds donated to charities of an employee’s choosing. Please check with your company to see if there is a matching program that can increase the impact of your gift. Tribute Gifts: Gifts may be made in honor or memory of a family member, alumni, classmate, teacher or 6 Voyager
loved one. Gifts are sometimes made to recognize life’s milestones such as weddings, birthdays, or graduations. Providing the school with contact information for the person or family to whom you’ve chosen to pay tribute will allow Island School to send an advisory note of your gift. Life Insurance Policies: Paid-up whole life insurance policies that you may no longer need can offer an immediate tax deduction for you while providing significant benefit to the school. Your gift credit would be the cash surrender value of the policy upon transfer. Gifts In-Kind: These gifts include property, other than cash or securities, ranging from real estate to classroom supplies. Donors are required to determine the fair market value of their donation for tax purposes. Island School will issue an acknowledgment letter with a description of the donated property and recognize donors without referencing a specific dollar amount.
Planned Gifts
Planned giving offers you the opportunity to leave a legacy at the school while protecting your financial future. Planned giving can offer sizable tax benefits and can also provide income relief to help you now or help your heirs in the future. Planned gifts often allow you to make larger gifts to the school than would otherwise be possible, adding to Island School’s long-term financial strength and meeting your philanthropic goal. Gifts could be made during your lifetime or through estate planning and can range from a simple bequest to a deferred or gift annuity. Your donation can also be designated through a charitable remainder trust or lead trust naming the school as a beneficiary. Please contact your legal and tax advisors to begin your planning. Once you have decided to include Island School in your estate plans, please call the Institutional Advancement Office at (808) 246-0233 to advise of your gift intentions.
Where You Can Give
There are four basic areas where you can direct your giving: the Voyager Fund, Financial Aid, the Endowment, or Special Project Funds.
Voyager Fund
Unrestricted giving to the Voyager Fund supports our most pressing needs. Success of the Voyager Fund is crucial to limiting tuition increases and are directly applied to the operating budget to support teacher salaries, professional development, course development, classroom instructional materials, and facility maintenance.
Financial Aid
A donation to our financial aid fund provides tuition assistance directly to our students and families. Many of the families in our Island School ‘ohana are facing unexpected change and challenges. Currently 51% of our Voyagers receive financial aid. For the coming 2020-2021 school year, it is clear that many more of our families will need assistance. Help us ensure that 100% of our Voyagers can remain enrolled!
Endowment
Endowment gifts remain intact in perpetuity and are invested to grow and secure the financial future of the school. Endowment earnings create steady streams of income for the school. Named, commemorative endowments can be established for gifts of $10,000 or greater to honor individuals and create legacies for them at Island School. Restricted Endowments are established to benefit financial assistance or specific program or facility needs that are of interest to you. Earnings are only spent for designated purposes. Unrestricted Endowments provide income into the future for Island School to be used in areas of greatest need as determined by the Board of Directors.
Special Projects Funds
Gifts may also be restricted for special purposes that meet school needs. From clubs, to travel, and capital improvements, restricted gifts that are not endowed are expended on the designated purpose until fully exhausted.
For more information on giving opportunities, please contact the Institutional Advancement Office at (808) 246-0233 or email info@ischool.org.
Honorable Mentions in the HawaiĘťi Regional Scholastic Art Awards.
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WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER cher for all his a te ’s d il ch y m nk teaching his “I want to tha is e h y a w e th d s an at teacher and thoughtful lesson re g a is e H . lish class ing.” sophomore Eng h distance learn it w g n ti a od m has been accom
“I want to commen d the 6th grade Is land School teache for the fine job they rs are doing by engagi ng with the studen and maintaining a ts regular school sche dule. It's reassuri watch my kids adhe ng to re to their regular school schedule dow the minute.(I quie n to tly chuckle about th e seriousness with they approach the which routine) Please co nvey my appreciati on.”
“ I wanted to let you know what an OUTSTANDING job my son’s teacher has been doing in this first week. Engaging the kids every morning live at 8:15am, and then having these various assignments and supporting extra curricular assignments from Drama, PE, and Music.”
“I am so g teache rateful to I s r hard a s have been land school . nd str ange t absolutely a The school a lengin i g ti me nd ma to be a mes, all wit . They have zing during the h ri th V that y oyager. The love and su sen to some is pport. ou are se kid c hals know I am s all the o r th e p could not as for them 10 ey are love roud k for m d and 0% as a ore fro m a sc parent you hool.”
“...Definitely the social interaction on-line is something he looks forward to, and then he enjoys working with the three or four different tools from Seesaw, Khan Academy and Epic as well as the occasional YouTube PE Dance video.”
into w o d n i got a w n tell you e v ’ I e k i e “I feel l ol & I can’t ev es to o g n o o h s c island s ul I am that my usly. You nkf erio how tha ten there!!! S m, I’m so ar ra kinderg e a stellar prog v guys ha impressed!!!”
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t Island School, we are very fortunate to have a campus full of educators who are devoted to their craft and to the fulfillment of our mission to educate the students of Kaua‘i. As the Covid-19 pandemic began to spread across the globe, Kaua‘i’s leadership acted swiftly and decisively with a stay at home order that would close our campus to students for an unknown period of time. The faculty and staff who support our 426 learners, were presented with an unprecedented challenge to which they responded with exceptional dedication and creativity. Our teachers designed a dynamic, high-caliber learning system for our children, effectively transitioning our entire curriculum, from art and music to science and foreign language, to a completely “distance learning” platform. Island School’s standards of educational excellence continue in this new learning format which maintains the attention to the individual student that is the cornerstone of our institution. Using models from around the country and resources from all over the world, lesson plans continue to be translated into digital formats using applications in Google Suite, MyVoyager, and Seesaw. Communication tools such as the digital meeting space, Google Meets, allow classes to safely be together again and share everything from stories of spring break to the ground breaking research done by the Senior Class of 2020 for their Capstone Projects. In some households our children have become the teachers, introducing mom and dad to Kahn Academy, Epic or the nuances of the perfect post. Our students from preschool to high school, have been given an opportunity to have confidence in their abilities, to express their creativity in videos, photos, and the written word, and to foster a love of learning with their families. The content being produced by our students is incredible, from physical education classes to sharing about their ahupua‘a. This is the time for our Voyagers to shine, to collaborate with their community in exciting ways, and to contribute to society with solutions that are unique to growing in this environment. As the 2019-2020 school year comes to a close, our faculty and staff continue to work diligently for our
students. In order to create the sense of community our students foster here at Island School, many of our events will continue in a social distancing format. Our Virtual May Day will be released before the end of the school year, and our faculty and administration are evaluating and working on recognition for our athletic teams, academic awards, and a celebration to honor the graduating class of 2020. Many are facing new responsibilities for the first time or may have difficulties with this period of transition. Resources and support persons are available to our students, faculty, and family members as we continue to navigate through these unchartered waters. Our core team of counselors, Deans of Students and Academics, department heads, faculty, and administrative staff continue to offer virtual meetings, office hours, phone, text, and email communications. Transition guides, webinars, and our resources website https://www.ischool.org/covid-19, offer tips and tools to manage households with multiple learners, parents working from home while managing their child’s learning, and activities that can be conducted within current health regulations. Families are encouraged to maintain healthy eating and fitness habits as well as daily routines. Social emotional learning is weaved throughout our digital presence during the everlasting Island School tradition of Morning Circle, mindfulness exercises for elementary, and middle and high school advisories. We are all in this together and together we will get through this. Voyagers of all ages are showing their true blue and gold! On behalf of Island School, we thank all of you: parents, students, staff, donors, and volunteers for continuing to support us and allowing us to prepare Kaua‘i’s youth to lead lives of significance. 9 Spring Edition
CLASS OF TWENTY-TWENTY KI‘ILANI ARRUDA University of Puget Sound KAITLYN COOK Pacific University GIANNA DETROLIO University of Utah JACKSON GAMBY Lewis & Clark College JOSHUA GRAVES Ripon College KALIA HAMID University of San Diego JUNE HSU Pomona College SAWYER JUDD Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University KAIKEA KAUI Lewis & Clark College MIA LOPEZ Kaua‘i Community College PATRICK MCKENNA University of California-San Diego OLIVIA MCSWEENY University of Puget Sound ASHLEY MECHAM Academy of Art University KIERAN MITCHELL California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo PRESTON PATTERSON California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo JAMES PRATT Santa Clara University KA‘OHU RANIS Central Washington University LILY REYNOLDS University of Washington MAX ROVINSKY California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo MORIAH SHAFTER Point Park University EMMA THAIN Stanford University JANEY VALENTE Seattle University MATTHEW VICKERS Occidental College STEPHANIE WASHBURN University of Central Florida 10 Voyager
OUR GRADUATES
CLASS PROFILE • This year our seniors received 160 acceptance letters to 94 different schools. These acceptances spanned 22 states and three countries. • 23 of our graduates are heading to 4-year colleges or universities next fall; one will be attending a community college. • 58% will attend private institutions; 42% will attend public institutions. • The geographic distribution is far-reaching, with students heading to California, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, Arizona, Florida, and Pennsylvania. • Students are interested in a variety of majors ranging from architecture, aviation, and biology to business, philosophy, and interior design. • Aside from working toward their future goals, the Class of 2020 found time to perform over 2,000 hours of community service over the last four years.
• This class was the 15th class at Island School to complete senior capstone projects. The senior capstone project is designed to be a culminating academic experience, bringing together what a student has learned and is passionate about. Presentation topics ranged from institutionalized racism, genetic engineering, and antibiotic resistance, to building a spear gun, creating a comic book, and making an iPhone app. • In total, this senior class was offered over $1,800,000 in scholarships and grant money per year from all of their schools of acceptance. • 3 National Merit Commended Scholars • GPA: 3.4 • SAT Reading: 637 SAT Math: 640 • ACT 26
ISLAND SCHOOL GRADUATION AWARDS Board of Directors Award
Head of School Award
Founders’ Spirit Award
Voyager Artist Award
Scholar Athlete Award
Blue & Gold Award
Ki‘ilani Arruda & June Hsu
Kaitlyn Cook & Emma Thain
Kaikea Kaui & James Pratt
Moriah Shafter
Kalia Hamid & Max Rovinsky
Kaitlyn Cook, Josh Graves & James Pratt
Sons and Daughters Award Ki‘ilani Arruda, Kaitlyn Cook, James Pratt, Ka‘ohu Ranis, Matthew Vickers & Patrick McKenna 11 Spring Edition
KI‘ILANI ARRUDA is the daughter of Kaipo Kealalio and Napualani Arruda of Kapaʻa. She has attended Island School for 13 years. Kiʻilani played girl’s volleyball and participated in track and field for all 4 years of high school. She played middle hitter and opposite in volleyball and ran hurdles and the 4x400 relay. She also swam for Island School’s swim team for 3 years and achieved the award for “Most Improved Swimmer” for two years. In school, Ki‘ilani served in Student Government for 3 years, finishing up her senior year as executive student body president. She was also a member of the National Honors Society and Interact Club for two years. Kiʻilani will be continuing her education at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma Washington in the fall to pursue molecular and cellular biology, in hopes of becoming a dermatologist.
KATIE COOK is the daughter of Anthony and Jerilyn Cook of Wailua. She has attended Island School for 13 years. Katie played Varsity Volleyball all 4 years of high school and was named team captain her junior and senior year. She also participated in soccer for 4 years, where she was named team captain her sophomore, junior, and senior year, while also making the KIF All-Star team her senior year. Katie also ran track for 3 years and was nominated team captain her sophomore and senior year. She enjoyed attending states with her teammates her freshman year. Katie was a class co-vice president her freshman year, and enjoyed partaking in Interact Club and National Honors Society for 2 years, where she was named vice president her senior year. In the fall, she will be attending Pacific University majoring in biology on the pre-med track, in hopes of becoming a pediatrician.
GIANNA DETROLIO is the daughter of Matt and Teri Peers of Princeville. She lives with her parents and younger sister, Dominica, who also attends Island School. Gianna has attended Island School for 5 years. Gianna participated in cross country all four years of high school. She also swam all 4 years, went to states her sophomore year, and was captain her senior year. She ran track and played tennis for 3 years. Gianna was involved in Student Government her senior year serving as senior class president. She was a member of National Honors Society, Model UN for 3 years, and Interact Club all 4 years of high school. Gianna will be going to the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah to pursue biology.
JUNE HSU is the daughter of John and Priscilla Hsu of Princeville. She has been attending Island School since the middle of seventh grade. June played volleyball all 4 years of high school and was named one of the team captains her senior year. She also played varsity soccer her freshman and sophomore year. She was a member of Model United Nations, Interact Club, and National Honor Society, in which she was president her senior year. June will be moving to Claremont, California where she will attend Pomona College. She is considering the majors of sociology, politics, or public policy analysis and hopes to go on to law school. June will also be playing volleyball for the Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens!
SAWYER JUDD is the son of Danny and Ceisha Judd of Lihu‘e. He has attended Island School for 4 years. Sawyer will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona, and will be studying aerospace engineering and spaceflight.
KAIKEA KAUI is the son of Creighton Kaui and Tamara Inman of Lihu‘e. He has attended Island School for 11 years. Kaikea has shot in air riflery and played tennis for all 4 years of high school. He’s also paddled for Island School during his senior year. Kaikea was a member of the National Honor Society for both his junior and senior year, becoming the NHS secretary during his senior year. He was also a part of the Interact Club during his sophomore year. For his first year in college, Kaikea will be receiving $3,000 in scholarship money from the Mamoru and Aiko Takitani Foundation. Kaikea is planning to move to Portland, Oregon this fall, where he will be attending Lewis & Clark to study biology.
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JACKSON GAMBY is the daughter of Tanya and Chris Gamby of Wailua. She has attended Island School for a total of 10 years. Jackson is a legacy student as her mother, Tanya, is an alumna. She resides in Wailua with her parents and brother, Zeke, who also attends Island School. Jackson’s favorite memory is the New York Model UN trip. While at Island School she participated in Model UN, soccer, volleyball and Science Olympiad. She also sang in the Alaka‘i Chorus for 3 years. Jackson will be going to Lewis & Clark College and is considering studying media studies.
JOSH GRAVES is the son of Maria and Shannon Graves of Poʻipū. Starting in the 8th grade, he has attended Island School for 5 years. Josh has participated in numerous sports such as basketball, cross country, soccer, and track and field. He was named KIF All-Star for cross country, soccer, and track and field. In addition to athletics, Josh has also been a proud member of the National Honor Society for the past 3 years. Josh will be attending Ripon College in Wisconsin where he plans to study engineering.
KALIA HAMID is the daughter of Hollan and Haleem Hamid of Moloa‘a. She attended Island School for 6 years along with her siblings, Lilah, a current Island School student, and Jaden, an Island School alumnus. Kalia has appreciated participating in soccer, tennis, International Relations Club, Interact Club, and hula. Kalia plans on studying psychology at the University of San Diego.
MIA LOPEZ is the daughter of Miguel and Carol Lopez of Kapa‘a. She has attended Island School for 6 years. She has participated in two Island School theatre productions, the Island School swim team, and in Mock Trial during her junior year. She plans to attend Kaua‘i Community College to pursue a degree in liberal arts and explore options and paths for her career.
PATRICK MCKENNA is the son of Margaret Yu and Gerald McKenna of Poʻipū and Lihu‘e. He has attended Island School since pre-K. Patrick’s favorite memories are of the high school retreats and playing on the tennis team as a Voyager. Patrick started tennis as a freshman and loved the sport. He continued playing through his senior year and plans on continuing in college. Patrick will attend the University of California-San Diego to pursue international business
OLIVIA MCSWEENY is the daughter of Michael McSweeny and Marisa Hurley of Kalāheo. She has attended Island School for 6 years. Olivia swam all 4 years of high school and was named captain her senior year. She threw shot put and discus in track and field for 2 years. Olivia was a member of Student Government for 1 year, where she served as executive secretary her senior year. Olivia will be moving to Tacoma, Washington to attend the University of Puget Sound to pursue teaching.
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ASHLEY MECHAM is the daughter of Joshua and Ana Mecham of Kekaha. She has attended Island School all 4 years of high school. She has played girls varsity volleyball since freshman year. Ashley is a coach and a player at the ‘Ike Loa Volleyball Club. Ashley will be playing volleyball in college. She has received an athletic scholarship for $15,000 in her freshman year of college, then a full ride the next 3 years. She is attending The Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California. She wants to major in interior design.
KIERAN MITCHELL is the son of Michael and Hasina Mitchell of Princeville. He has attended Island School for 6 years and has participated in soccer, volleyball, and cross country, being a senior captain for both soccer and volleyball. Kieran has also participated in Student Government and was vice president his freshman year. Kieran has made the head of school list and high honor roll for all four years. He has received awards in both academics and athletics. Being a passionate surfer, diver, and waterman, Kieran will be moving to San Luis Obisbo, California, to attend California Polytechnic State University to pursue his passion for marine science, receiving the Green and Gold Award.
PRESTON PATTERSON is the son of John Patterson and Katalin Terdik of Kapa‘a. He has attended Island School for 5 years. Preston participated in the Science Olympiad for 3 years and attended states every year. He threw shot put and discus in track his senior year. Preston participated in junior varsity basketball and air riflery his freshman year and tennis in his sophomore year. Preston will be moving to San Luis Obispo to attend California Polytechnic State Institute this fall, he will be pursuing a degree in business administration.
MAX ROVINSKY is the son of David Rovinsky and Amy Hutson of Kapahi. He has attended Island School for 6 years. Max shot air riflery sophomore year, and played golf freshman, sophomore, and junior year. During his junior year, Max competed for the Island School swim team and advanced to compete in states. Max will be moving to San Luis Obispo, California to attend California Polytechnic State Institute to pursue a degree in architecture.
MORIAH SHAFTER is the daughter of Andrew and Renate McMullen of Kapa‘a. She has attended Island School for 3 and a half years. Moriah has spent much of her high school career training in classical ballet, jazz, lyrical, hula, and Tahitian dance. She has danced competitively, winning Double Platinum, and People’s Choice Awards at regionals, and 2nd Place Small Group at nationals. In addition to this, she swam, participated in track, was a member of the school’s halau, participated in Science Olympiad, and attended the Na Leo Hou All State Choral Festival. Moriah plans to attend Point Park University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania this Fall. She will be pursuing a BFA degree in dance in hopes of becoming a professional dancer and eventually, a physical therapist for dancers.
EMMA THAIN is the daughter of Justin and Malia Thain of Poʻipū. She has attended Island School for 4 years. Emma ran cross country and played tennis during her high school career. She participated in Mock Trial all 4 years of high school. Emma was a member of Student Government for 3 years, and served as class president her sophomore year, class vice president her junior year, and class vice president her senior year. Emma was a member of Interact Club for all 4 years of high school, and Model UN during her junior and senior years. Emma will be moving to California to attend Stanford University and pursue an education in the humanities.
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JAMES PRATT is the son of Sam and Robin Pratt of Lihu‘e. James is a legacy student as his mother, Robin, is an alumna. His entire academic career was done at Island School starting as a preschooler. James participated in cross country, swimming, track, and golf during his high school experience. He competed at states for cross country and golf. James also helped lead his class to work on the Senior gift, painting the new building for the Island School campus. James will be attending Santa Clara University in California where he will pursue a major in finance.
KA‘OHU (Christian) RANIS is the son of Elias Ranis and Jennifer Pomroy of Kalāheo and Lihu‘e. He has attended Island School since pre-K. Ka‘ohu shot air riflery all 4 years of high school and was named captain his senior year alongside his best buddy Kaikea Kaui. He played volleyball all 4 years, and threw discus for 1 year. Ka‘ohu received the Margo Latif Award his freshman year and had an honorable mention in the Hawai‘i Regional Scholastic Art Awards. Ka‘ohu is planning on going to Ellensburg, Washington to attend Central Washington University to pursue aviation.
LILY REYNOLDS is the daughter of Daniel and Joey-el Reynolds of Kilauea. Lily has attended Island School for the past 7 years. Her older brother, Luke, also graduated from Island School. Her favorite memories at Island School are traveling to Nevada for the Mock Trial National Championship, overnight camping in Koke‘e for retreats, and being the 4th grade teacher’s aid this year. Lily has valued being part of tennis, Mock Trial Team, Model UN, Interact Club, National Honors Society, Student Government, and the 4th grade support system. She has participated in tennis all 4 years of high school, and was co-captain her senior year. She was the executive vice president for Student Government her senior year, as well as being the co-captain of the Mock Trial Team. Lily will be moving to Seattle, Washington to attend University of Washington to pursue business and law.
JANEY VALENTE is the daughter of Jody and Erika Valente of Kalāheo. She has attended Island school for 8 and a half years. Janey played volleyball her freshman year, air riflery her sophomore year, and participated in swim her senior year. Janey plans on attending Seattle University to study biology.
MATTHEW VICKERS is the son of David Vickers and Animata Vickers of Koloa and Honolulu. Matthew Vickers has participated in air riflery, Mock Trial, cross country, and track and field, being team captain of the last two activities. At the Hawai‘i Mock Trial State Competition, he was recognized as an Excellent Witness and received special words from the trial’s judge for his performance in his role. He has also received awards in cross country, once Most Improved, twice MVP, and is the two-time KIF Cross Country Champion. He has competed in state-level competitions in cross country and track and field. Matthew Vickers will be living in Los Angeles attending Occidental College, where, while being a college athlete, he will be pursuing a political science degree along with another major in a related field.
STEPHANIE WASHBURN is the daughter of Greg and Mercedes Washburn. She has attended Island School for 2 years. Stephanie has played on the school tennis team for 2 years and participated in cross country for 1 year. She was a member of Model UN for 2 years and was co-secretary of the Interact Club her junior year. At her previous school, Satelite Highschool, Stephanie played in the orchestra for 2 years. She hopes to join the orchestra at the university-level. Stephanie has enjoyed being in chorus for 2 years. She will be moving to Orlando, Florida, to attend the University of Central Florida to pursue psychology and neuroscience.
15 Spring Edition
Senior Ki‘ilani Arruda You have attended Island School since kindergarten, what about this unique situation would you like to share? What will you take away from this experience? Having been at Island School for 13 years, I have seen our school evolve and expand. However, one thing that has not changed is our school’s devotion to their students’ futures. Growing up at Island School has not only enriched me academically, but also has taught me the benefits of being a part of such a close knit community. Since we are a relatively small school, I feel that people here want to get to know one another. Learning comes naturally when teachers are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge with the students. Teachers at Island School genuinely care about the students. Even as a senior, I would still visit my teachers I had in elementary school. Island School has not only prepared me to thrive in an academically rigorous environment, but also how to succeed further in life and to pursue the passions students have outside of academics. In high school particularly, I sang in our choir, participated in student government, and played multiple sports. Island School has prepared me to go to college and expand my horizons. Why did you decide to compete in pageants? Can you describe your journey thus far? The first pageant I competed in was the Miss Kaua‘i Teen USA 2019 pageant. I started competing in pageants because I wanted to try something new and step outside of my comfort zone. A lot of the previous titleholders have accomplished great things in their community and continued on to become educated, successful women, like Island School alumna Stephanie Steuri, Miss Hawaii 2014. Competing in pageants and going on to win Miss Hawai‘i Teen USA has been a life changing experience and I have learned so much from my journey so far. One of the most important things that I have learned so far, is the amount of support that people have given me throughout my journey. I am lucky to have such a great support system that wants to see me succeed. Representing Hawai‘i at Miss Teen USA is a great honor and responsibility that I am lucky to have, and I hope to make my home proud. What was your platform and what inspired you to promote it? My platform is autism awareness. My brother was diagnosed with autism at a young age. Being nonverbal, everyday tasks can be difficult for him, but he proceeds to make improvements everyday. Having witnessed him grow so much in the past 3 years inspires me to overcome the obstacles I face in my life. Over the summer, I volunteered at the Autism Clinic, and it was one of the most enriching experiences. Autism is one title that labels thousands of different stories, and with this knowledge, I hope to bring awareness that people are much more than the labels they are given. I believe that being aware and educated about autism goes hand in hand with building a world that is accepting and inclusive for all people. 16 Voyager
Voyager to Miss Teen Hawai‘i Can you tell us about winning Miss Teen Hawai‘i USA 2020? My journey to becoming Miss Hawai‘i Teen USA has been one of self growth and understanding. A lot of mental and physical preparation was put into preparing for the competition. The three categories are interview, active wear, and evening gown. However, for me the most crucial part of my process was not practicing my onstage walk or finding the perfect dress: It was becoming comfortable being my most genuine, authentic self that I could be. In my opinion, the biggest misconception about pageant girls is that they are mainly judged by their looks. Contrary to popular belief, pageant girls are incredibly well-rounded and intelligent women making positive impacts on others. The pageant that I competed in, Miss Hawai‘i Teen USA, is under the Miss Universe Organization. Their motto is “Confidently Beautiful,” which to me means having a positive attitude towards yourself and others. Later this year, I will be competing at Miss Teen USA. What are your plans for after graduation? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? After graduating from Island School, I plan to major in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. After obtaining my master’s degree, I hope to continue my education at medical school to become a cosmetic dermatologist. In 5 years, I hope to be starting medical school on the mainland. However, when I’m done with schooling and residency, I hope to move home so I can give back to the community that has incessantly supported me. How has financial aid affected your academic and personal journey? What would you like to say to the generous donors that give to Island School’s Financial Aid program? Financial aid has helped me and my family tremendously. My mom always told me that the most important thing she wanted for me is to get a good education and go to college. I appreciate the generous donors that want to continue to support people of all backgrounds who want to have the opportunity to pursue education at Island School but might not have the financial means to do so. Without their support, I would not have been able to create the experience that I did at Island School. My experience has encouraged me to not let anything stop me from pursuing my goals and fulfilling my dreams. I continue to work hard because I appreciate the opportunity I have. Our small island is filled with bright children who want to do big things, and I hope that they can find inspiration in themselves to pursue their dreams like I have.
COLLEGIATE ATHLETES Island School truly offers a well rounded experience to our students, providing them the opportunity to take the skills they have developed on campus onto the field and on their pathway to institutions of higher-learning. Our students are confident and responsible, lifelong learners and contributors to our community. They practice leadership in the various roles they play on their teams and collaborate with their teammates and coaches to achieve their goals both in the game and in the classroom. As these athletes prepare to embark on the next phase of their journey, they take with them the aloha and ‘ike of their Island School ‘Ohana to their new home teams in colleges across the country. We wish our Voyagers fair winds and smooth sailing on their future adventures.
KAITLYN COOK
College: Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon Sport: Volleyball Why Pacific University? “Pacific University offers a breadth of undergraduate research opportunities as an undergraduate, and remarkably prepares students for medical school, the next step I hope to be taking. I look forward to Pacific’s small community and its large Hawai‘i club, giving me a sense of home as I embark on my new journey. In addition, this school allows me to continue my passion for volleyball while representing the university. Go Boxers!”
Words from her coach: “Katie is a very mature, responsible, and trustworthy leader. She has a great head on her shoulders and will always choose the right. It is normal for Katie to go the extra mile in whatever she does and it is definitely not for recognition, it is just the way she operates; great work ethic! As my primary Team Captain for high school volleyball, Katie was the glue that brought and held the team together, closer than ever before...Together in a single season, we were able to turn around the league’s last place team into a championship contender...Her role fulfillment was vital to our success. Katie is one I would not hesitate to take into battle...” Deej Peleras, Varsity Volleyball Coach
Athletic Accomplishments: Volleyball - Coach’s Award, Most Valuable Player, Co-Team Captain her junior and senior year. Soccer - KIF All-Star, Coach’s Award, Most Valuable Player Track - Coach’s Award and Elite Performer winner
JOSH GRAVES
College: Ripon College in Ripon, Wisconsin Sports: Cross Country and Track Why Ripon? “The deciding factor was how much preparation they went through to have me on their visit. My name was on a big banner. I had a bunch of gifts that were handed to me and it really seemed like they wanted me there.” Athletic Accomplishments: Soccer - KIF All Star, Coaches Award and MVP Track - KIF All Star, Coaches Award and MVP • 3rd and 8th place finishes in the 800m Hawai‘i State Track and Field Championships Cross-Country - KIF All Star, Coaches Award and MVP
18 Voyager
Words from his coach: “Josh is a hardworking student and great athlete who consistently shows up to practice with a great attitude and gives his all during every workout. He has done great for himself with some remarkable races and is always trying to improve in any way possible. Josh is a great leader and friend to his teammates. Since I have known him, I’ve seen him grow a lot as a person and as an athlete. While he is a medal winning athlete in both cross country and track, he is also a very smart kid who does well in school.” Renato DeSouza, Varsity Cross Country and Track Coach
JUNE HSU
College: Pomona College in Claremont, California Sport: Volleyball Why Pomona College? “ It is a small and intimate community, but has the resources of a larger school due to the Claremont College consortium. The faculty, administration, and current students have all been very accessible throughout this process and answered all my questions. The people seem to truly care about you just like Island School and I can play volleyball.”
with everyone to bring out the best in them. June will infuse laughter to any situation, including intense ones where the pressure is on in a match. In these moments she breaks the ice and helps her teammates loosen up to refocus on the task at hand. June knows the team’s mission statement by heart and puts in the work to achieve the team’s goals. Plain and simple, June puts her heart into everything she does which moves people and brings them together; an attribute of any great leader. June’s style of leadership elevated the team to a family type of bond that is unbreakable.” Deej Peleras, Varsity Volleyball Coach
Athletic Accomplishments: Volleyball - Coach’s Award, Most Improved Player, Anchor Award, Co-Team Captain senior year. Words from her coach: “June is a leader by way of the heart. She’s able to connect
ASHLEY MECHAM
College: Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California Sport: Volleyball Athletic Scholarship: $15K first year, full-ride the last 3 years Why Academy of Art? “I chose to attend Academy of Art mainly because they are an art school, and I plan to major in interior design. A huge reason however is because they have a volleyball program, with a great coaching program and amazing players. Attending Academy of Art is great for me because it is located close to my mom, and is in a wonderful city.”
Words from her coach: “Ashley was a leader by way of action. She set the tone with her level of play; expectations through hard work and effort displayed day in and day out on the court. Ashley blazed the trail for a higher caliber of play for Island School girls’ volleyball. A new beginning, higher standards with a championship mindset. She brought respect to the Lady Voyager Volleyball team and created new rivalries in the KIF. Ashley is one to not let any team beat us without a fight. She is a true competitor.” Deej Peleras, Varsity Volleyball Coach
Athletic Accomplishments: Volleyball - KIF All Star, MVP winner
MATTHEW VICKERS
College: Occidental College in Los Angeles, California. Sport: Cross Country Why Occidental? “Mostly because of academics and location. I liked the vibe during my campus visit.” Athletic Accomplishments: Track - KIF All Star and State Qualifier 800m and 1500m Cross Country - KIF All Star, KIF Champion Junior and Senior year, Most Improved Award, and MVP winner Words from his coach(s): “Matthew is an athlete who has grown a lot over the years and continues to amaze us. He is constantly pushing himself to run harder and do better both on and off the field, his
competitive attitude and hard work has brought multiple championships and his attitude is a joy both to the coaches and his teammates. A dedicated, intelligent student that has always done his best and is willing to put in the work.” Renato DeSouza, Varsity Cross Country and Track Coach “Matthew and Josh both set audacious goals and did the work, the very hard work it took to achieve those goals. They are champions because they put in the effort over the years. I am confident this will positively impact the rest of their lives.” Eric Wortmann, Varsity Cross Country and Track Coach
“Educating the mind, inspiring the heart. Preparing Kaua‘i’s youth to lead lives of
significance.”
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ALUMNI SHARE THEIR STORIES We want to hear from you! Please submit your notes and photos to alumni@ischool.org.
CLARE (PETTERSON) MCCLURE, ‘02 Kapa‘a, Kaua‘i Veterinary Technician
DAVE HUBBARD, ‘00 Lihu‘e, Kaua‘i Professional Bodyboarder
2019 was a big one, as my now wife was admitted into the country, we got married and she was even granted her green card! I was on the podium of nearly all of the bodyboarding events I competed in. I also did quite a bit of renovation to make my previous bachelor pad into “our home”. I often look back on how the intimate setting of Island School allowed independent study and even independent sports training. That was empowering and helped me develop my own passion for progress. In our current quarantine era I’m able to focus on my relationship with my wife, continuing the home improvement and am still getting out for my bodyboarding exercise. The slowed pace of life has helped me to re-focus on what is really important in life, and I’m finding a lot of peace and guidance from my relationship with Jesus. 22 Voyager
I’m currently enjoying whipping my garden into shape and spending time with my family. Highlight from the year: My kid started school! My favorite memory of Island School is of Halloween at the Kealia location, everyone was dressed up. Covid-19 has been both bad and good for us. Both jobs have closed down so we are able to stay at home safe, and with our daughter starting the new awesome online classes we can spend some time together as a family. I really enjoy being an Island School parent, I’m so grateful that they are doing the online schooling and my kid is loving it as well!
MARISSA ORNELLAS, ‘05
Wailua, Kaua‘i Graduate Student at University of Hawai‘i - Mānoa After graduating from the University of Hawai‘i -
CORY ANN HOM-WEAVER, ‘04
La Jolla, California Researcher at Environmental Assessment Services From 2016 through the end of 2019, I was working for a company called Silversea Cruises. I was a part of their expedition team in the capacity of a marine biologist lecturer and wildlife guide. Our little ships (up to 240 passengers) would cruise around the world to far off and remote places (such as Antarctica, the Russian Far East, and the Arctic). I loved being able to drive our guests around in zodiacs and share my passion for wildlife with them. Although I was in love with traveling the world, I knew that being at sea for 8 months of the year wasn’t a forever job for me. Thus, I decided to change directions and go back to research. I was head hunted by a company called Environmental Assessment Services to start working at Southwest Fisheries Science Center in La Jolla California. I started working for them in January this year and at the moment feel very fortunate that I am still able to work amidst this world pandemic. Currently I’m looking for minke whale boings (yes boings, it’s a vocalization that they make) for a citizen science project that we will be uploading to Zooniverse. I’m also running detectors to look for beaked whale (deep diving mammals) vocalizations. Acoustics is particularly useful for these whales as they are rarely seen at the surface.
Mānoa with a B.S. in Ethnobotany, I taught the 7-12 science program at Kawaikini NCPCS in Puhi for several years. I stepped away from teaching for a bit to raise our son and daughter (now ages 5 and 2.5). Taking this time to be a full time parent has been beautiful, chaotic, fun, at times incredibly challenging and messy, but all in all, the best thing I’ve ever done! I’ve discovered how fascinatingly amazing babies and young children are (not to mention adorable), and how critical this early period of human development is. In the wee hours of midnight for the last year and a half, I’ve been working on my Master of Education in Early Childhood Education Program Administration and am scheduled to complete my thesis in the fall of this year. Covid-19 has kicked our homestead into full swing, and in addition to the 30 plus egg laying hens I’ve pastured for the last several years, it has spurred us to get our home garden going and my husband has been filling our freezer with fresh caught meat and fish. Thinking back on my time at Island School, I am especially appreciative of the quality education I experienced and the emphasis on academic habits.
Marissa pictured here on the left
23 Spring Edition
KATY THOMPSON, ‘06 Valdez, Alaska Middle School Teacher
JETT JASPER, ‘06
The thing I appreciate most about my Island School experience is the continued support and love I received as a student. Now that I’m a teacher, I see how truly committed and caring the staff at Island School was and continues to be. It was a privilege to learn in such a community. Last year I switched from teaching 4th grade to teaching middle school. Currently, I’m trying my best to reach my middle school students during Covid-19. My husband (who is also a teacher) and I have been making videos for our students on YouTube.
Lihu‘e, Kaua‘i President of Ho‘ike Kaua‘i Community Television My fondest memories of Island School is loading up into big yellow school buses and going to beach days at Lydgate park. After Attending Island School, I attended the University of Hawai‘i where I was a member of the 12-0 Football Team. Upon graduation, I moved back to Kaua‘i. I am currently President of Ho‘ike Kaua‘i Community TV, Kaua‘i’s only television station. I am also a commissioner on Kaua‘i County’s Open Space Commission. I am also a Manager of “8212 Hawai‘i, a Real Estate holding company on Kaua‘i. I still live in Lihu‘e where I was born and raised and have no plans of leaving. I enjoy paddle boarding, hiking and yearly trips to Japan. 24 Voyager
Katy pictured here on the right
JORI JASPER, ‘09
Colorado Springs, Colorado Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, JAG Corps
JULI BLACHOWIAK, ‘09
I’m stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado Springs, CO. After graduating from the William S. Richardson School of Law, I joined the U.S. Army JAG Corps. I’m currently the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney who litigates violations that occur on Fort Carson. On June 1, 2019, I got married on Kaua‘i. My husband, Mattie Tago, also serves in the U.S. Army and he just returned from his third deployment. We look forward to starting a family soon. My fondest memory was the 5th Grade Big Island Trip to Volcanoes National Park in Ms. Wortmann’s class. Island School taught me to have high character and respect everyone. This has helped me throughout my life and currently in my job in the U.S. Army.
Los Angeles, California Writer/Director
I graduated from the University of Redlands in 2014 with a major in creative writing. I am now a writer/ director currently living in Los Angeles. My first film “In The Middle” will be released theatrically in 2022. My fondest memories of Island School was spending time with my friends under the tree by the tennis courts and driving two-minutes to get Hanalima Bakery, when we could have easily walked. The best advice I received from a teacher was from Jim Bray, “Commit to something.” Island School allowed me to invest in subjects I enjoyed, that gave me confidence in my specialty. 25 Spring Edition
RYAN PEREZ, ‘12
Seattle, Washington PR/Communications Coordinator for XFL
STEPHANIE STUERI, ‘11
Knoxville, Tennessee Graduate Student at University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine After graduating from Island School, I moved to O‘ahu where I received my bachelor’s degree in Biology from University of Hawai‘i-Mānoa. Along the way, I managed to remain active in FIRST robotics, and took time off from my studies to serve as Miss Hawaiʻi 2014. In 2016, I became a VOLunteer, and moved to Knoxville, Tennessee to continue my educational marathon at the University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine. After a long 4 years, I am excited to be graduating in May, fulfilling my high school dream of becoming a veterinarian! My next stop is Starkville, Mississippi, where I’ll be starting a year-long small animal internship at Mississippi State, gaining advanced medical training and instructing clinical students. From there, I hope to match with a small animal surgery residency, pursuing the dream of becoming a Veterinary Surgeon. Island School provided me with a solid, well-rounded foundation to build upon academically and socially. Leadership opportunities and skills developed through involvement in sports and clubs gave me the knowledge and experience needed to be successful in my later endeavors! 26 Voyager
I currently live in Seattle, Washington where I’m a PR/Communications Coordinator for the Seattle Dragons of the XFL. After graduating from California Lutheran University in 2016 with a B.A. in Communications, I stayed in California and worked for the Los Angeles Rams for three seasons (20162018) as a media relations game-day assistant and 2018-2019 as a communications intern). Following my internship with the Rams in 2019, I accepted a seasonal communications assistant position with the New York Jets and moved to New Jersey for 10 months. Since graduating college, I have worked four seasons in the NFL, including Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta and one season in the XFL. Island School gave me the opportunity to be a leader and take on a lot of responsibilities which required me to focus on my time management skills. Being a Voyager also showed me the value of relationships and gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams.
CHRISTY JO “CJ” WILLIAMS, ‘14 Oakland, California Homeschool Teacher
KHIN “APRIL” OO, ‘13
Atlanta, Georgia Graduate Student at Emory University Rollins School of Public Health I’m currently pursuing my Masters in Public Health in Atlanta, GA and hoping our Kaua‘i community weathers this pandemic in relatively safer conditions than us. The years since Island School has brought out the community organizer in me and I continue doing anti-racist work through the research I’m involved in investigating racism’s effects on minority health outcomes. During undergrad at University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, and following graduation, I worked with refugee communities, including on a small-scale farm. I finally put my bilingual skills to use as a professional medical interpreter. Most dear to my heart along these adventures has been becoming part of a community of people who are also from Burma. Other personal highlights from recent years include a pilgrimage to the motherland and reconnecting with family there as well as my Burmese roots. Island School nurtured a balance of healthy competition and collaboration for its students. That type of learning environment prepared me academically, and more importantly, instilled in me an eagerness to be part of a community. The skills I gained in my different roles at Island School, equipped me to be a capable contributing community member.
After graduating from Reed College with a degree in Anthropology, I relocated to Oakland, CA to work as a homeschool educator. The unique, grassroots program I have run for the past two years is called “Coddiwomple Community School”, a micro-school that provides educational and social enrichment to a small group of homeschooled kids ages 11-14. Since moving to the Bay Area, I have also become very involved in local activism. As a proud transgender nonbinary person, I engage with my queer community to fight against the political and societal oppression we confront on a daily basis. I’m also involved in native ecology restoration projects, and recently completed a fellowship at the non-profit “Save the Bay”. Now, my interest in environmental activism has led me to join the Texas Conservation Corps, which I will begin in July 2020. I take inspiration from the many passionate, dedicated teachers I had at Island School when I am reflecting on my own class and planning curriculum. Besides the critical reading and writing skills they passed on to me, I am eternally grateful to them for being strong educational role-models. Without their influence, I wouldn’t even be half the teacher I am today!
27 Spring Edition
DAVIS HUFFMAN, ‘15 Aurora, Colorado
Software Developer/Project Manager
Kalena pictured here on the right
KALENA WONG, ‘14 Honolulu, Hawai‘i Project Manager at a Non-Profit
Graduation for me symbolized the beginning of my life off the island. I wanted to push boundaries and explore my comfort zone so I went to Wheaton College in a small suburb of Chicago and was one of the few non-white students in most of my classes. Through Wheaton, I studied international relations and community development which led me to a 6-month internship in Apurimac, Peru where I worked for a human rights organization, learned Spanish out of necessity, and ate enough potatoes & quinoa for a lifetime. After finishing school I began a job in Escuintla, Guatemala working as a project manager for a sustainable development non-profit in a tiny fishing village. All last year I greatly missed laundry machines and spam, but now I’m thankful to be living on Oahu, having returned a few weeks ago. There were some teachers at Island School that were fountains of inspiration and curiosity. They helped foster in me a deep desire to learn, ask questions and laugh about yourself along the way because we are all figuring this thing out. 28 Voyager
I went to Virginia Tech and received my bachelors in Aerospace Engineering. My most memorable accomplishment in undergrad was placing first in theme and second overall in the NASA RASC-AL nationwide college-level competition which was a spacecraft design concept pitched to NASA. From that, I became a published author for the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. At the age of 21, I presented our concept and ideas to esteemed professionals at the AIAA Propulsion and Energy conference in Indianapolis. Currently I work for Raytheon Technologies in Aurora, Colorado and split my time between being a software developer and project manager for 5G augmented reality solutions. I adopted a Husky puppy who is turning 2 soon and have really lived the Colorado lifestyle (skiing, hiking, camping, etc.). My fondest memory of Island School was the experience of leadership that I was given being the Student Body President. For that reason alone Island School prepared me very well for my future endeavors. I will never forget the passion for engineering principles that Dr. Kozak provided to me as a student, he really shaped who I am today and gave me wonderful recommendations for college and beyond. Island School allowed me to take on responsibilities that normal high schoolers would not get. I was able to act with the Board of Directors with important decisions and understand roles of responsibility.
EMMA SCHNECK, ‘16 Hartford, Connecticut Senior at Trinity College
MADISON MOORE, ‘15
Honolulu, Hawai‘i Senior at University of Hawai‘i-Mānoa I am currently in my last semester at the University of Hawai‘i, where I will be graduating with a bachelors in Mathematics. The reason I chose this major was because of inspiration from Dr. Kozak during my senior year Calculus I class. I spent my first half of undergrad at Long Beach State University and also competing on the women’s soccer team at LBSU. I transferred home to finish my degree and compete on the Rainbow Wahine soccer team. My brother, Cole Moore (Class of 2013), now attends Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawai‘i. It has been awesome being in the same city as him for my final year of undergrad and his first year of Law School. I have recently been accepted to the Master’s Degree Program in Biostatistics at the University of Florida for the Fall of 2020! Thank you, Island School!
I will be graduating summa cum laude from Trinity College this May, with a bachelors in Political Science and International Studies. I spent my entire junior year abroad in France, Nepal, Jordan, and Chile as part of an international traveling scholars program. This winter, I was sponsored to conduct research in Australia on climate change diplomacy in the Pacific region. This year, I was awarded the 1823 Scholar Award, as well as the Micki Dworin Prize for excellence in student research. This summer, I will be moving to Casablanca, Morocco to work as this year’s MENAR Fellow (Princeton’s Middle East/North African Fellowship program). I am excited to improve my Arabic and French skills and travel more across the region. Dr. Kozak’s infinite advice prepared me for the trials and tribulations of college life. Mr. Reynold’s vibrant class discussions and wisdom also helped shape me and my work as a student. My one piece of advice to any student planning on entering college is to learn how to write a good essay, writing skills will take you far.
29 Spring Edition
ALLISON SUMMERHAYS, ‘17 Provo, Utah Junior at Brigham Young University
MICHAELA FITZGERALD, ‘16
Oahu, Hawai‘i Graduate Student at University of Hawai‘i-MānoaShidler College of Business In 2019, I graduated summa cum laude from the University of Hawai‘i-Mānoa with a triple major in Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and International Business. Currently, I’m pursuing a Master’s in Accounting while studying for the CPA exam. Upon graduation, I have accepted a full-time Audit Associate position at Deloitte in Honolulu. Island School provided me with a supportive environment of teachers who encouraged me to embrace academic challenges, think critically, and appreciate the rewards of working hard. Along with many others, Dr. Kozak, Mr. Bray and Mrs. Archuara significantly impacted my academic growth and personal development. I attribute my love of numbers to Dr. Kozak’s Honors Calculus class and my analytical thinking to Mr. Bray’s Advanced English class. I also credit Mrs. Archuara for giving me a pivotal chance that set the course of my pursuit in Accounting. 30 Voyager
I attend Brigham Young University as an Applied Mathematics major with a minor in Spanish. This past semester I have worked for the school as a grader for calculus students, so if I’m not doing math homework, I’m grading it! Some of my fondest memories of Island School were had in my math classes, especially my 4 person Calculus BC class senior year with Dr. Kozak! I never thought I would study math before I had Dr. Kozak as a teacher, but he gave me confidence in my ability to learn hard concepts and succeed. I love calculus because of how he taught it to us! The more exciting (non-math related) news in my life is that I am getting married in a month to my fiancé, Merrill. He grew up with my sister’s husband, so we hang out all of the time! We are excited for May 2nd! Island School prepared me to work hard and appreciate learning. I think Island School has also really helped me to understand the importance of using your education and opportunity to give back to the communities that have supported you in whatever way you are able! I also feel a desire to make a contribution to the world that won’t just benefit my life, but also the lives of those around me!
Allison pictured here on the right
PIERCE BIVENS, ‘19
Nashville, Tennessee Sophomore at Vanderbuilt University
SYDNEY AGUDONG, ‘18 Los Angeles, California Actor, Singer, Songwriter, Student
I graduated high school with the intent of taking a gap year to pursue acting and singing in LA. Almost two years later, I have no intent of ending my expedition yet. Moving to LA was big a cultural shock that hit me when I wasn’t looking but I have grown so much since. Currently, I’m a part-time student at COC. I spent last summer in Michigan filming as a lead in a beautiful coming-of-age Indie Film called “West Michigan”, coming out this year. I also have had the opportunity to perform at events and am in the midst of signing a publishing contract as a songwriter for a top-tier recording studio that I have been working at for months now to produce music, including my DEBUT SINGLE called, “Feel Something”, coming this spring! Be on the lookout! I’m so grateful for my journey and I can’t wait to see how far it goes. Island School prepared me for college way more than I expected it to. I found that my first semester classes were a breeze because I was taught how to manage my work ethic and was taught at the same level that my college is teaching right now.
My major is Human Organizational Development, and I am on Peabody College Honor Roll. I am considering a Pre-Law track in Political Science. My fondest memory of my time at Island school is my junior year class retreat with Dr. Patterson, Mr. Evslin, and Mrs. Denton. One of the more important lessons I ever learned from a teacher is how to set up a Roth IRA account and balance a checkbook from Mr. Reynolds. I value a lot of the Life Skill Fridays with Uncle Dave, I hope he is still doing them. Island School gave me more than enough base knowledge in multiple areas to succeed in college, and gave me the broad frame of mind that I need for expansion into college and the workplace.
31 Spring Edition
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Heidi Roach, class of 2021, seascape painting won a Gold Key Award in the Hawaiʻi Regional Scholastic Art Awards
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July 1, 2020-June 30, 2021 Annual Fund Campaign November 30, 2020............ Giving Tuesday December 19, 2020............. Alumni Reunion Spring 2021.......................... Annual Auction Gala June 8, 2021.......................... Alumni Day
