The senior American Government Honors class has been working on year-long projects focusing on social issues and a way to positively influence the situations.

Teacher Lurline Choy said, “American Government is about understanding how our government works but the biggest thing that Americans are proud of is looking for change. Students have great ideas about making a difference and this project helps them to incorporate them.”

Each student or group of students chose a topic in which they have an interest and which can make a difference in the community.

Senior Angela Wong who has been in the robotics program for four years worked with lower school students.

“My project is focused on promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers. I worked with Mrs. Teshima’s fourth grade science classes by giving an interactive and fun presentation. We then played the marshmallow challenge which is a game where students have to build the tallest tower using uncooked spaghetti noodles and marshmallows. This activity helps students practice STEM skills in a fun way.”

Senior Tiare Sadarananda wanted to raise students’ social awareness about a serious problem.

“My initiative is to raise awareness of the issue of human trafficking in Hawaii. We are also raising money in support of the Ho’ola Na Pua effort, which is the plan to build a safe home for exploited females.”

Senior Dominique Dold wanted to teach children about water conservation.

“My project is focused on educating students about water conservation. We have created posters with a QR code which will direct people to our web site. The site has videos, tips and information about how to conserve water.”

Students will be doing oral presentations at the end of April for classmates.