Grades four through six traveled to strengthen class relationships and broaden learning experiences during the spring break.

Fourth graders traveled to the Big Island and explored Hilo, Kilauea and Kona. Activities included getting close to an active volcano, experiencing steam vents, viewing petroglyphs at Anaehoomalu, seeing ancient artifacts and hearing legends and the history of the Islands. The students chanted and prayed in Hawaiian daily and had extensive lessons about native traditions and plants.

Fourth grade teacher, Michelle Tuzon, said, “The benefits of the trip were many: seeing first-hand what the girls have been studying and learning about the Hawaiian culture, working as a team, being independent and representing our school in a dignified manner. The trip was a culmination and huge part of the year’s learning, dedicated to studying ancient and modern Hawaii.”

At the same time, sixth graders ventured to Kauai and toured landmarks, including Waimea Canyon and Waioli Mission House. Students participated in various community service activities throughout the trip as they worked in the kalo, or taro patch, developing the area for the Waipa Foundation.

Sixth grade teacher, Griffith Jurgens, said, “The girls participated in numerous hands-on learning experiences, subsequently taking the opportunity to benefit the communities throughout the island. In addition, they utilized iPads instead of papers and pencils to document their findings, thus creating an effective and efficient means of reporting their work.”

While the fourth and sixth graders traveled to the Neighbor  Islands, fifth graders went to Camp Timberline in Makakilo, Oahu. The girls were challenged to communicate, problem-solve and think critically in a multitude of team-building activities. A 25-35 foot structure posed a physical challenge and dared students to overcome an intimidating height and work collaboratively. Mental sharpness was also put to the test as the fifth graders worked together to find solutions to problems.

Fifth grade teacher, Susan Phillips, said, “Girls returned home with a new-found confidence in themselves that they can do anything they want with perseverance, an open mind and a positive attitude.”