Aloha Mid-Pacific ‘Ohana,
As we celebrate the milestones of this school year – including the 20th anniversary of our Elementary School – I find myself reflecting on how far our journey in Deeper Learning has taken us. Walking through campus each day, I see students engaged in experiences that are not only rich in knowledge, but also purpose-driven and joyful. From our youngest preschoolers to our middle and high schoolers, Deeper Learning is sparking curiosity, creativity, and growth at every turn.
In our Elementary School, Deeper Learning was on full display this spring. We saw it in the joy of Kūpuna Day, where hundreds of grandparents joined our keiki in classrooms to share songs, stories, and activities. This intergenerational exchange of wisdom and aloha reminded us how inclusion and connection enrich education for all. We also saw Deeper Learning in the 5th Grade Capstone showcase, a culminating project that asked each student to explore the question “Who am I?” through personal inquiry and creativity. At their Celebration of Learning night, each 5th grader proudly presented their journey – from memoirs to art projects – to family and friends. Walking through their vibrant displays (including a photo wall of memories from preschool to now), I was struck by the confidence on our students’ faces. They found their voices and learned that their stories matter, a true example of student empowerment as they prepare for Middle School.
Deeper Learning thrives in our Middle School through hands-on challenges and real-world exploration. During National Engineers Week, middle schoolers worked in multi-grade teams that put their problem-solving skills to the test by designing and building the most energy efficient CD ROM car. This kind of experiential learning ignited their curiosity and showed them the power of innovation and perseverance. Beyond campus, our 8th graders expanded their horizons on the annual East Coast trip to Washington, D.C. and New York City, where they connected classroom lessons to real-world experiences. From standing in historical memorials to exploring world-class museums, they came away with unforgettable memories and a broader perspective of the world around them. The journey taught responsibility and independence, and it reinforced how learning can happen anywhere – preparing our students to be engaged global citizens.
Each of these experiences reflects the heart of who we are at Mid-Pacific. We believe in inclusion, creativity, and empowering our students to discover their potential. Through purpose-driven learning opportunities like these, our young Owls are growing into engaged, thoughtful, and capable contributors to the world. We could not achieve this without the dedication of our faculty and staff and the support of our families. To our entire Mid-Pacific community, mahalo for being our partners in this journey. By striving together, we will continue to nurture children who are not only academically prepared, but also grounded in character and purpose.
E Kūlia Kākou,
Let’s strive and aspire together
Paul Turnbull, Ph.D.
President