Hawai'i Preparatory Academy's Podcast

Hawai'i Preparatory Academy
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  • EDUCATION

Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy (HPA) is an independent, co-educational K–12 day and boarding school in Waimea on Hawaiʻi Island. Rooted in place-based and experiential learning, HPA offers a rigorous academic program grounded in community, curiosity, and care for place. The Hawaiʻi Preparatory Podcast shares stories and perspectives from students, educators, and alumni, offering insight into life, learning, and opportunities at HPA — both in the classroom and beyond.

Episodes

  1. 3D AGO

    Navigating Grief as a Family

    How do we support children and adults through grief? In this episode, Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy’s Lower School team creates space for an honest and compassionate conversation about bereavement—exploring how loss shows up across the lifespan and how families and communities can navigate grief together. Lower School Principal Dora Kwong guides a thoughtful discussion with a panel of experienced professionals: Rachel Baydo, HPA K–8 Counselor; JoAnna Wyss, seasoned grief and loss therapist with a background in hospice care; and Kimara Gustafson, trauma-informed pediatric care specialist at The Queen’s Health Systems North Hawaiʻi Primary Care Clinic. Together, they reflect on the complexities of grief in both children and adults, including how culture, spirituality, and community influence the healing process. The conversation explores how grief can be non-linear and layered — often shaped by silence, stigma, or communal response. Panelists share practical guidance for responding to difficult questions, supporting children in developmentally appropriate ways, and maintaining connection to loved ones who have passed. The episode also addresses the challenge of supporting children while navigating one’s own grief, emphasizing emotional transparency, modeling healthy coping, and the importance of seeking support when needed. Host: Dora Kwong, Lower School Principal – dkwong@hpa.edu Panelists: Rachel Baydo, HPA K–8 Counselor – rbaydo@hpa.edu JoAnna Wyss, Grief and Loss Therapist, LCSW – jwyss110@gmail.com  Dr. Kimara Gustafson, Pediatric Care Specialist, The Queen’s Health Systems North Hawaiʻi Primary Care Clinic Pediatrician – specializes in supporting children’s physical and social-emotional well-being, partnering with families to help every child grow into a healthy adult –  kgustafson@queens.org Episode Chapters Introductions & Purpose Opening Reflections: What Grief Can Look Like Understanding Grief Across the Lifespan Supporting Grieving Children When Adults and Children Grieve Together Closing Reflections & Resources

    1h 2m

  2. MAR 27

    Why HPA – Parent & Alumni Perspective

    In this episode, our Admission team is joined by parents, and alumni to share their personal experiences at Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy. From the perspective of international families to the lasting impact of academics, athletics, and place-based learning, this conversation highlights what makes the HPA journey so meaningful. Students reflect on why they chose HPA, how the school has prepared them for college and life beyond, and what advice they have for prospective students. Parents share how their children have grown and the opportunities that have shaped their experience, while alumni speak to the long-term impact of HPA —from trying new things with the support of teachers to experiences like the outdoor program and sea turtle research. Hosts Tiare Police, Director of AdmissionJanet Kalaniopio, Senior Associate Director of AdmissionTayler Wang, Assistant Director of AdmissionMaria Mora, International AdmissionsEpisode Chapters  0:00 – Introductions 2:40 – Why should you apply to HPA? (Student Perspectives) 5:50 – Parent & Alumni Introductions 10:45 – Being a Parent of an International Student 14:05 – Opportunities at HPA 16:30 – Trying New Things & Teacher Support (Alumni) 18:50 – Impact on Future Success (Alumni) 21:00 – Outdoor Program & Sea Turtle Research 22:40 – Academics & Athletics 25:11 – Student Growth & Transformation (Parent Perspective) 31:00 – Preparing for College & Life After High School 37:30 – Advice for Prospective Students

    54 min

  3. MAR 10

    Meet our Pre-K Lead Teacher – Monica Hurley

    In this episode, we’re excited to introduce the newest member of the Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy ʻohana—our lead Pre-K teacher, Monica Hurley. Born and raised in Waimea, Monica brings deep roots in our island community and decades of experience working with young children. Monica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Chaminade University and is completing her Master’s in Teaching in Early Childhood Education. Her background includes running her own family child care program for 18 years, working in local preschools, and most recently designing and leading an ʻāina-based learning program for children ages 5–12. Her work centers on hands-on, place-based learning that weaves together Hawaiian culture, language, and sustainability. In this conversation, Monica shares more about her journey as an educator and what families can expect from HPA’s new Pre-K classroom. From nurturing curiosity and independence to creating meaningful learning experiences rooted in our environment and community, Monica discusses how young learners will explore, discover, and grow in a supportive, child-centered setting. Whether you’re a current or prospective parent, this episode offers a closer look at the philosophy and heart behind HPA’s expanding early childhood program—and the inspiring educator leading the way. Host: Dora Kwong, Lower School Principal Guest: Monica Hurley, Pre-K Lead Teacher For more information about Pre-K at HPA reach out to admissions@hpa.edu

    11 min

  4. FEB 27

    The Energy Lab at HPA

    How does innovation come to life at Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy? In this episode, HPA’s admission team takes listeners inside the Energy Lab, a state-of-the-art facility where sustainability, science, engineering, and real-world problem solving intersect. Director of Admission Tiare Police, along with Janet Kalaniopio and Tayler Wang, sit down with Dr. Bill Wiecking, Director of the Energy Lab, and Greg McKenna, Head of Sustainability, to explore how the Energy Lab building itself reflects HPA’s commitment to environmental stewardship and hands-on learning. From global collaborations to student-driven research, the conversation highlights how learners are empowered to tackle meaningful challenges. Current students share powerful testimonials—from AI capstone research and drone technology to fire detection sensors, independent science research, and mentoring younger students—demonstrating the depth, access, and opportunity available at HPA. The episode also addresses how students balance rigorous academics with athletics and other commitments. Hosts Tiare Police, Director of AdmissionJanet Kalaniopio, Senior Associate Director of AdmissionTayler Wang, Assistant Director of AdmissionPanelists Dr. Bill Wiecking, Director of the Energy LabGreg McKenna, Head of SustainabilityKelan, HPA StudentPhilipp, HPA StudentEpisode Chapters 0:00 – Introductions3:30 – The Energy Lab building, sustainability & collaborations9:10 – Working with students & project introductions11:30 – Student testimonial: Kelan — AI Capstone Project23:30 – Student testimonial: Philipp — Drones, fire sensors & cross-grade collaboration35:00 – Student testimonial: Independent science research38:00 – Q&A46:30 – Balancing studies & athletics

    52 min

  5. JAN 5

    Middle School at HPA

    What makes the middle school years such a powerful time for growth? In this episode of the Hawaiʻi Preparatory Podcast, we take a closer look at Middle School at HPA and how this stage is intentionally designed to support curiosity, confidence, and connection. Hosted by Middle School Principal Michael Cservenak and Assistant Director of Admission Stephanie Stewart, the episode explores HPA’s mission and values, academic planning, arts programs, advisory and capstone experiences, and the school’s experiential learning framework. The conversation also highlights Mālama Kaiāulu, community connections, leadership development, and how HPA creates a supportive, phone-free environment where students can truly engage in learning. With practical insights into scheduling, communication with families, athletics, and transition support, this episode offers a comprehensive view of how HPA’s middle school program helps students thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally. Hosts Michael Cservenak, Middle School PrincipalStephanie Stewart, Assistant Director of AdmissionEpisode Chapters 0:00 – Introductions1:04 – Middle School fast facts1:37 – Mission, values & vision2:44 – A place to learn like nowhere else3:23 – Performing, music & visual arts4:32 – The wonder of being a learner5:13 – Mālama Kaiāulu5:53 – Academic planning & pursuit of excellence7:26 – Community connections8:33 – Advisory program10:24 – Capstone program13:03 – Theme week15:39 – Experiential learning framework17:09 – Middle school team18:16 – Schedule22:05 – Phone-free campus23:53 – Questions to consider25:25 – Admission key dates & next steps27:41 – Middle school athletics29:39 – Family communication & student progress31:46 – Parent involvement opportunities34:20 – Supporting transfer students36:40 – Leadership opportunities38:31 – Homework41:21 – Exposure to the upper school campus

    46 min

  6. 12/24/2025

    Joyful Beginnings: Kindergarten at HPA

    What does a joyful, supportive start to school look like? In this episode of the Hawaiʻi Preparatory Podcast, we focus on Kindergarten at HPA and the foundation it provides for lifelong learning. Hosted by Assistant Director of Admission Stephanie Stewart, the conversation features Lower School Principal, Dora Kwong and Kindergarten Teacher, Dee Walker as they share HPA’s mission, values, and approach to early childhood education. Together, they explore joyful learning, systems thinking, specialist classes, counseling support, and how HPA partners closely with families to support each child’s growth. From daily rhythms and curriculum design to parent communication and transitions into school, this episode offers an in-depth look at how HPA’s Kindergarten program nurtures confident, curious learners from the very beginning. Host Stephanie Stewart, Assistant Director of AdmissionPanelists Dora Kwong, Lower School PrincipalDee Walker, Kindergarten TeacherEpisode Chapters 0:00 – Introductions: Lower School Principal2:52 – Mission, Values & Vision3:26 – Systems Thinking & curriculum design4:52 – Lower School fast facts6:15 – Lower School philosophy8:20 – Specialist classes9:40 – Counseling support11:05 – Capstone program13:08 – After-school program14:30 – Introduction: Kindergarten teacher16:12 – Joyful learning & Kindergarten philosophy24:00 – Weekly schedule27:24 – Admissions key dates29:58 – Supporting conflict as growth32:18 – Parent communication beyond conferences33:28 – Supporting transitions38:28 – Parent involvement opportunities42:24 – Homework45:17 – Supporting students and families who need extra help46:47 – Preparing children for Kindergarten

    53 min

  7. 12/22/2025

    Signature Programs at HPA

    In this episode, HPA’s admission team explores the school’s signature academic programs, including Marine Studies and the Energy Lab, and how HPA’s people, programs, and place create extraordinary learning opportunities. Hear from faculty experts and current students as they share how hands-on experiences — from sea turtle research and SCUBA diving to cutting-edge collaborations with organizations like NASA and UCLA — bring learning to life. The conversation also highlights advanced coursework such as AP Cybersecurity and Computer Engineering, student access to specialized facilities, and how HPA’s unique setting in Hawaiʻi enriches every aspect of education. Hosts Maria Mora, International Admission CounselorJanet Kalaniopio, Senior Associate Director of AdmissionTayler Wang, Assistant Director of AdmissionsPanelists Dr. Bill, Director of the Energy Lab, Science TeacherLaura Jim, Marine Studies Educator, Co-Director of the Sea Turtle Research Program & Director of SCUBAAnna M. ʻ27, Current StudentDominik R. '27, Current StudentEpisode Chapters 0:00 – Introductions3:32 – Marine Studies: Sea Turtle Research, SCUBA & Marine Biology13:13 – Student perspective on Marine Studies14:34 – What makes HPA and Hawaiʻi a special place to learn18:22 – Energy Lab collaborations (NASA, UCLA & more)19:16 – AP Cybersecurity & Computer Engineering19:53 – Access to facilities and advanced courses21:40 – Student perspective: Cybersecurity & Island Science24:00 – Advice for future HPA students

    26 min

  8. 12/18/2025

    Spirit of Learning at HPA

    What does learning look like at Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy — and how does it prepare students for college and beyond? In this episode, HPA’s admission team hosts a thoughtful conversation with academic leaders, college counselors, current students, and alumni to explore the spirit of learning that defines the HPA experience. From innovative coursework and senior capstone projects to personalized college counseling and student support, hear firsthand how HPA nurtures curious, motivated, and well-rounded learners. You’ll gain insight into HPA’s academic program, unique learning opportunities, and what truly sets HPA students apart in the college application process — along with honest perspectives from students and alumni reflecting on their journeys. Hosts Maria Mora, International Admission CounselorJanet Kalaniopio, Senior Associate Director of AdmissionTayler Wang, Assistant Director of AdmissionsPanelists Amanda Arragon, Curriculum & Instruction CoordinatorCindy Montgomery, Associate Director of College CounselingAndrew Kelsey, Director of College CounselingWynter Radey Morgan ʻ25, AlumnaYingqi Liu ʻ21, AlumnusHolden Lahey ʻ26, Current StudentEpisode Chapters 0:00 – Introductions6:04 – What the spirit of learning at HPA means10:19 – Overview of HPA’s academic program14:05 – Unique academic opportunities16:09 – Senior Capstone Project18:44 – SAT & ACT testing at HPA22:46 – What makes HPA students stand out in college applications28:38 – Favorite classes and learning experiences32:12 – How teachers support students academically and personally33:11 – How HPA prepares students for college and beyond37:54 – Advice for students considering HPA41:42 – When college counseling begins44:46 – College majors HPA graduates pursue46:56 – Transferring to HPA 51:05 – AP classes vs. Honors classes

    57 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy (HPA) is an independent, co-educational K–12 day and boarding school in Waimea on Hawaiʻi Island. Rooted in place-based and experiential learning, HPA offers a rigorous academic program grounded in community, curiosity, and care for place. The Hawaiʻi Preparatory Podcast shares stories and perspectives from students, educators, and alumni, offering insight into life, learning, and opportunities at HPA — both in the classroom and beyond.

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