As I write this introduction, our faculty and students are entering the final weeks of school and preparing for presentations of learning, playoffs in multiple sports, year-end activities for myriad clubs, and of course, graduation and senior celebrations for the Class of 2023.
As the school year draws to a close it’s only natural to reflect on what was, as well as what will be. In keeping with this transition, the theme of this issue of Mid-Pacific Today is growth and renewal, a concept that is close to our hearts at Mid-Pacific. We believe in nurturing each student through a Deeper Learning approach that embraces diversity, caring, creativity, innovation, and ‘ohana. This approach allows the process of growth to occur consistently across grades and academic disciplines each year. By supporting our students to pursue their passions, develop their skills, and express their identities through challenging academic programs, the arts, immersive technology and meaningful service opportunities, we prepare them to become the innovators, artists, and individuals who will flourish as adults in our complex world.
Growth and renewal are part of the natural rhythm across school years, ultimately linking decades and generations of alumni who fondly remember Mid-Pacific. As we mark our 115th anniversary this year, we honor our rich history and legacy as one of Hawaii’s oldest and most diverse independent schools. For over a century Mid-Pacific has taken the important step of renewing its approach to teaching and learning when major societal challenges called for a new direction. Today is no different. We began our shift toward Deeper Learning in 2011, continuing our long tradition of embracing innovative solutions meant to prepare students for the coming economic, social, and geopolitical challenges of the world beyond college.
That is why, even in today’s turbulent global reality, I am looking forward to the future with hope and enthusiasm. As we continue to grow and evolve, just as we did in 1908 or 1940, we will continue our tradition of overcoming changing societal needs and opportunities by preparing students to thrive as adults who are comfortable in environments marked by complexity and uncertainty.
In this issue, you will find heartwarming stories of growth and renewal from across our school community. You will see how our students are engaging in authentic learning projects that make a difference in the world. You will discover how our faculty are continually innovating their teaching practices and integrating creativity and technology into their classrooms. You will celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of our alumni who are making a positive impact in their fields and communities.
I invite you to enjoy the articles and learn more about the next step on our journey of growth and renewal.
E Kūlia Kākou,
Let’s strive and aspire together
Paul Turnbull, Ph.D.
President
View this article in 中文 | 日本語 | 한국어*
*Translation provided by the Mid-Pacific Student Translator Committee:
Crosby Doyama (Koske) ’23, Rina Doyama ’23, Hina Hayashi ’23, Riko Hashimoto ’24, Harang Kim ’26, Archer (Shuang) Tony Lee ’24, Liang ’23, Kai (Jia) Liang Lin ’23, Youngje Park ’24, Junsei Tanizaki ’24, Sydney Woolley ’24