Jul. 7, 2016

Contributed by Pakalani Bello

Learning about program updates for the upcoming school year, the annual School Collaborators’ Orientation for current and prospective collaborating schools with the Pauahi Keiki Scholars (PKS) and Kipona programs was held recently at the Ka‘iwakīloumoku Hawaiia Cultural Center.

Representing 73 O‘ahu private schools, 88 people attended the orientation. The Pauahi Keiki Scholars program is a need-based scholarship program for keiki who are planning to attend select, non-Kamehameha preschools in Hawai‘i. The Kipona program is also a need-based scholarship program, helping families of keiki who plan to attend KS-recognized private schools in Hawai‘i.

Executive Vice President of Administration Darrel Hoke opened the orientation with an overview of both programs. Financial Aid and Scolarship Services Director Theresa Reelitz, Program Manager Brandy Allen and Senior Budget and Awards Analyst Marissa Akui then went over some of the changes coming to the programs in the coming years and went through an overview of the new portal that collaborators will use. After a good question and answer session, the collaborators had lunch in Ululani Hale to close out the day.

KS program representatives recently held separate orientations for four schools in Kona and Waimea and four schools on Kauaʻi and will hold other orientations for 10 schools in Hilo on July 13 and for 15 schools on Maui on July 15.