Congratulations on a very successful commencement ceremony! Great to see these young men and women graduate and now ready to move on with their future endeavors. The Project Grad was also very successful event as the graduates had lots of terrific activities, food, fun and good company. Kudos to the students, faculty, parents and community who came together to make all of this a memorable occasion as it speaks to that level of commitment.
With the school year winding down, important that we share SY 2010 -11 Hawaii State Assessment results as of this past week.
Percentage of grade 10 students proficient: Mathematics - 34%; Reading - 70%; and Science - 40%
Percentage of grade 10 students tested: Mathematics - 91%; Reading - 88%; and Science - 86%
Data results clearly shows that we missed the benchmarks across the board. With the minimum benchmark targets now at 64% for Math and 80% for Reading, we'll need to "roll-up our sleeves" and strategize. Over the next few weeks prior to the opening of the new school year, will be meeting with various faculty members to review data, instructional practices & expectations, and personnel assignment adjustments.
Asking each department to submit their recommendations to serve as department heads of SY 2011-12 by Thursday, May 26th. View this position responsibility to build leadership capacity within our school's organization. Whether a first year or thirty plus year veteran, want to encourage individuals who are willing to step-up and they are assured of administration's support. Administration's final decision will be based around the following criteria:
deep commitment addressing instructional practices that challenge all students through rigorous standards based teaching;
good communication, human relations and organizational skills;
open-mindedness and humility
tolerance for ambiguity
courage and willingness to take risks
lifelong learner
willingness to work hard with creativity and flexibility
Finally, the expectation remains that standards based bell to bell instruction take place for the rest of this week. Thank you for your professionalism in helping to maintain an academic environment.
Weekly Reminders:
SCC Meeting - Tues. 5/24/11: School Community Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday - May 24th 5:30 p.m. @Student Center.
Kapaa High Athletic Dept Awards Ceremony: SY 2010-11 Athletic Awards Ceremony recognizing our student athletes will be held on Tuesday - May 24th @7:00 p.m. in the Gym.
Faculty Meeting - Wed. 5/25/11: Faculty mtg will be in the Chorus Room @2:00 p.m. to discuss year end items, summer operations, and opening for SY 2011-12.
Last Day for students - May 26, 2011 (full day)
Last Day for teachers, educational assistants, security, temporary cafeteria workers and health aide (half-day) - Friday, May 27, 2011
Have a great week!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
Updates - Week of May 16th
Thank you to our students, faculty and community partners who helped make the "Every 15 Minutes - Shattered Dreams" experience a wonderful learning opportunity. When community organizations come together in sharing such an important message, it really speaks to that level of commitment for our future generations. Supporting students in making positive choices is ongoing and fulfilling work!
With the short amount of instructional days left, important that I remind everyone:
Classroom instruction must continue to be focused from bell to bell. Teachers are asked to maintain this level of focus and continue to hold high expectations for all students;
Please keep reminding seniors that their senior agreements remain in place until graduation. To lose their privilege of graduation ceremonies participation at this point in time would be a shame. Same expectations as well for underclassmen in being focused and responsible.
In my office is a plague with quotes from a former football coach Vince Lombardi and a portion of his quote states:
Life's battles don't always go
to the stronger or faster man;
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.
As the school year comes to a close, the evidence of our efforts will be measured in our students' results. Per our Academic/Financial plans, we have stated that our accountability lies in the following percentage growth areas:
students showing proficiency to the content standards;
students receiving passing verses failing grades;
students promoted;
students meeting our school's stated benchmarks in the Hawaii State Assessment; and
graduation rates.
As with any successful team, we continue to work together as one team with one focused goal....that every student is prepared for college, career and citizenship in this 21st century. Appreciate everyone's efforts!
Weekly Reminders:
PTSA Mtg - Monday 5/16/11: Monthly PTSA meeting will take place in the Student Center @6:30 p.m. Reminder that PTSA is sponsoring a luncheon for all staff on May 27th and lunch counts should be have submitted to Leila.
Department Meetings - Wed. 5/18/11: Department heads should use this time to meet in reviewing needs for next school year. Remember that due to the current budget shortfalls, we need to be pro-active in planning for our instructional needs for next school year. Please be sure to collect and submit purchase orders to Pamela or Leila. Administration will continue to meeting with as many departments possible to address questions.
Finals Week: Reminder of the bell schedule modification for this week. Purpose is to allow for ample time for students to take tier finals as well as to complete unfinished assignments.
Graduation Ceremony - Fri. 5/20/11 @6:30 pm: Looking forward to seeing everyone come out to support and congratulate of graduates. Know that this class has touched almost every staff member is some special way and being there to provide that acknowledgement really brings it full circle.
May 26, 2011 - Last Day for Students
Friday, May 27, 2011 - Last Day for Teachers (Full Day)
Have a great week!
With the short amount of instructional days left, important that I remind everyone:
Classroom instruction must continue to be focused from bell to bell. Teachers are asked to maintain this level of focus and continue to hold high expectations for all students;
Please keep reminding seniors that their senior agreements remain in place until graduation. To lose their privilege of graduation ceremonies participation at this point in time would be a shame. Same expectations as well for underclassmen in being focused and responsible.
In my office is a plague with quotes from a former football coach Vince Lombardi and a portion of his quote states:
Life's battles don't always go
to the stronger or faster man;
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.
As the school year comes to a close, the evidence of our efforts will be measured in our students' results. Per our Academic/Financial plans, we have stated that our accountability lies in the following percentage growth areas:
students showing proficiency to the content standards;
students receiving passing verses failing grades;
students promoted;
students meeting our school's stated benchmarks in the Hawaii State Assessment; and
graduation rates.
As with any successful team, we continue to work together as one team with one focused goal....that every student is prepared for college, career and citizenship in this 21st century. Appreciate everyone's efforts!
Weekly Reminders:
PTSA Mtg - Monday 5/16/11: Monthly PTSA meeting will take place in the Student Center @6:30 p.m. Reminder that PTSA is sponsoring a luncheon for all staff on May 27th and lunch counts should be have submitted to Leila.
Department Meetings - Wed. 5/18/11: Department heads should use this time to meet in reviewing needs for next school year. Remember that due to the current budget shortfalls, we need to be pro-active in planning for our instructional needs for next school year. Please be sure to collect and submit purchase orders to Pamela or Leila. Administration will continue to meeting with as many departments possible to address questions.
Finals Week: Reminder of the bell schedule modification for this week. Purpose is to allow for ample time for students to take tier finals as well as to complete unfinished assignments.
Graduation Ceremony - Fri. 5/20/11 @6:30 pm: Looking forward to seeing everyone come out to support and congratulate of graduates. Know that this class has touched almost every staff member is some special way and being there to provide that acknowledgement really brings it full circle.
May 26, 2011 - Last Day for Students
Friday, May 27, 2011 - Last Day for Teachers (Full Day)
Have a great week!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Updates - Week of May 9th
To ensure everyone has updated information about our Smaller Learning Community 9th grade HUIs and Academies progress, sharing links to the SLC Blog and the SLC Resource Wiki. Links provides a good venue to access current progress as well as providing suggestions. Please take time to review at your leisure.
http://kapaahighschoolslc.blogspot.com/
https://sites.google.com/site/khsslcworkspace/
With three weeks of instruction left, some important reminders......
Classroom instruction must continue to be focused from bell to bell. Noticed that some teachers have been allowing students to stand by their classroom doors much too early resulting in loss of precious learning time as well as disrupting other classes.....this is not acceptable;
Encouraging teachers and support staff to minimize the amount of days they are absent as having substitutes cover at this time of the year can be very challenging. Should you need to be out, please remind your substitute on the importance of "bell to bell instruction"; and
Please remind your senior students that they are accountable to the senior agreements until graduation. Would be very disappointing to lose their privilege to participating in the graduation ceremony at this point in time. Same holds true for the underclassmen in remaining focused and responsible for their educational responsibilities.
Over this past weekend, Kapaa High School has begun having "stationary" night security on campus. Security personnel have been assigned to our school from the later evening hours until around 6:00 a.m. As you recall, initial rationale for having security was due to schools having graffiti problems/bomb threats and with graduation around the corner need to be pro-active to ensure for a safe environment. Reminder for anyone working late, coaching, conducting night meetings, etc. to please have your IDs with you.
Key personnel changes for Complex and State level for SY 2011-12:
Kauai Complex Area ELL Resource Teacher - Michael Depoe. Mike replaces Ligaya Ortal who recently retired and he will be working with all of Kauai schools addressing ELL services;
Kauai Complex Area Data Resource Teacher - Allison Carveiro. Allison will take the lead in working with complex area data such as DSI, HSA, etc. She brings a wealth of knowledge to this position as a classroom teacher, former Title I resource teacher, and was recognized as one of Hawaii's outstanding teachers; and
State Level Data for School Improvement (DSI) Administrator - Dan Miyamoto. Dan takes over as the State lead for DSI and he will be working with all complexes ensuring that DSI are utilized as part of the ongoing formative assessment feedback. Mr. Miyamoto was one of the key leaders in helping create Hawaii's DOE Literacy for Learning focus.
Please continue encouraging your students to support both Memorial Day Lei and Food Bank drive. As one of our staff shared, if we can also get our seniors to donate their graduation leis, this gesture goes a long way helping recognize our veterans. In terms of the Food Bank drive, with more schools qualifying as Title I (at least 40% of the student population qualify for free or reduced meals) schools shows that there are more needy families and students. Wouldn't it be great if every student and adult donated just one canned food item.
Finally, let me take this opportunity to share my deepest appreciation to our teachers and support staff as we recognize our educators. No matter your role/responsibility, collectively you play a key role in preparing our students to be college and career ready. Let us continue to support each other in this noble quest as our students deserve nothing less.
Weekly Reminders:
May Day Program - Monday 5/9/11: School will be on the "Assembly Bell Schedule #2 for our May Day program. Assembly will be follow period 6 and begin @1:10 p.m. Reminder to monitor your assigned areas.
SLC Mtg - Monday 5/9/11: Principal will be on Oahu attending the Smaller Learning Consortium meeting. Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison will be in charge.
Complex Area Leadership Mtg - Tues. 5/10/11: Principal and VP Harrison will be attending a combined leadership mtg at the State Bldg. Diane Ayre and Greg Gonsalves will be in charge.
Department Meetings - Wed. 5/11/1: Department heads are reminded to meet with their teachers on Wednesday, May 11 @2:00 to discuss items such as budget requests for SY 2011-12, etc. Administration will be meeting with as many departments possible that day so to address questions.
SLC HUI mtg - Thurs. 5/12/11: 9th grade HUI meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 12th @2:20 p.m. Administration will also be covering updated room assignments, planned trainings, etc.
Testing Information: Re-sharing the testing calendar and bell schedule modification for finals week. Reminder that listed testing areas have priority for the computer labs during the assessment time-frame.
http://kapaahighschoolslc.blogspot.com/
https://sites.google.com/site/khsslcworkspace/
With three weeks of instruction left, some important reminders......
Classroom instruction must continue to be focused from bell to bell. Noticed that some teachers have been allowing students to stand by their classroom doors much too early resulting in loss of precious learning time as well as disrupting other classes.....this is not acceptable;
Encouraging teachers and support staff to minimize the amount of days they are absent as having substitutes cover at this time of the year can be very challenging. Should you need to be out, please remind your substitute on the importance of "bell to bell instruction"; and
Please remind your senior students that they are accountable to the senior agreements until graduation. Would be very disappointing to lose their privilege to participating in the graduation ceremony at this point in time. Same holds true for the underclassmen in remaining focused and responsible for their educational responsibilities.
Over this past weekend, Kapaa High School has begun having "stationary" night security on campus. Security personnel have been assigned to our school from the later evening hours until around 6:00 a.m. As you recall, initial rationale for having security was due to schools having graffiti problems/bomb threats and with graduation around the corner need to be pro-active to ensure for a safe environment. Reminder for anyone working late, coaching, conducting night meetings, etc. to please have your IDs with you.
Key personnel changes for Complex and State level for SY 2011-12:
Kauai Complex Area ELL Resource Teacher - Michael Depoe. Mike replaces Ligaya Ortal who recently retired and he will be working with all of Kauai schools addressing ELL services;
Kauai Complex Area Data Resource Teacher - Allison Carveiro. Allison will take the lead in working with complex area data such as DSI, HSA, etc. She brings a wealth of knowledge to this position as a classroom teacher, former Title I resource teacher, and was recognized as one of Hawaii's outstanding teachers; and
State Level Data for School Improvement (DSI) Administrator - Dan Miyamoto. Dan takes over as the State lead for DSI and he will be working with all complexes ensuring that DSI are utilized as part of the ongoing formative assessment feedback. Mr. Miyamoto was one of the key leaders in helping create Hawaii's DOE Literacy for Learning focus.
Please continue encouraging your students to support both Memorial Day Lei and Food Bank drive. As one of our staff shared, if we can also get our seniors to donate their graduation leis, this gesture goes a long way helping recognize our veterans. In terms of the Food Bank drive, with more schools qualifying as Title I (at least 40% of the student population qualify for free or reduced meals) schools shows that there are more needy families and students. Wouldn't it be great if every student and adult donated just one canned food item.
Finally, let me take this opportunity to share my deepest appreciation to our teachers and support staff as we recognize our educators. No matter your role/responsibility, collectively you play a key role in preparing our students to be college and career ready. Let us continue to support each other in this noble quest as our students deserve nothing less.
Weekly Reminders:
May Day Program - Monday 5/9/11: School will be on the "Assembly Bell Schedule #2 for our May Day program. Assembly will be follow period 6 and begin @1:10 p.m. Reminder to monitor your assigned areas.
SLC Mtg - Monday 5/9/11: Principal will be on Oahu attending the Smaller Learning Consortium meeting. Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison will be in charge.
Complex Area Leadership Mtg - Tues. 5/10/11: Principal and VP Harrison will be attending a combined leadership mtg at the State Bldg. Diane Ayre and Greg Gonsalves will be in charge.
Department Meetings - Wed. 5/11/1: Department heads are reminded to meet with their teachers on Wednesday, May 11 @2:00 to discuss items such as budget requests for SY 2011-12, etc. Administration will be meeting with as many departments possible that day so to address questions.
SLC HUI mtg - Thurs. 5/12/11: 9th grade HUI meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 12th @2:20 p.m. Administration will also be covering updated room assignments, planned trainings, etc.
Testing Information: Re-sharing the testing calendar and bell schedule modification for finals week. Reminder that listed testing areas have priority for the computer labs during the assessment time-frame.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Updates - Week of May 2nd
Effect May 2, 2011, Lisa Mireles will be taking over for Judy Gardner's 9th grade World History Honor's class. Ms. Gardner will be out for the rest of the fourth quarter and will retire at the end of this school year. Wish Judy the best in her retirement and thank her for the years of service. Kapaa High is very fortunate to a highly qualified educator in Ms. Mireles taking on this challenge as she brings a wealth of teaching experience.
Our accountability addressing students' progress will soon come to fruition as we wind down these last few weeks of the school year. Our targeted goals as stated in the Academic/Financial plan must be met whether it be through the Hawaii State Assessments (HSA) outcomes, graduation rates, promotion/retention rates, failures, report cards, etc. As shared previously, the responsibility for students' growth lies with all of us and not in just one department or program. Please continue your efforts in reviewing your data, articulating within and across programs, and ensuring that sound instruction ensures that benchmarks/standards are covered and differentiated for students' success.
Administration will be meeting department heads on Monday, May 2nd 2:30 p.m. @library as there are several important items that must be addressed in a timely manner. Asking that Literacy coaches also attend.
As we start the final week of the State Employees Food Drive I wanted to touch bases with everyone to support this effort. This year more than other years there's an ever growing need. Friday, May 6th is the state's designated last day of the drive and any small donation of a food product is greatly appreciated! Thanks to Harriet Watanabe and her students for taking the lead for this very noble effort.
Finally, extra-curricular/club advisors are to remind their students that their club is responsible for removing their posters/fliers from the campus building walls in a timely manner. This also means should any banners, posters, bulletins, etc. be damaged prior to the end of the event, must also be removed in a timely manner. Important that we model pride and responsibility in caring for our school.
Weekly Reminders:
Department Head Mtg: Department head and Literacy leads meeting on Monday, May 2 @2:30 p.m. in the library.
Website School Calendar: As discussed, please visit school's website calendar addressing school activities, club meetings, etc. to verify accuracy. Want to ensure that information posted are accurate. http://kapaahs.intand.com/index.php
Testing Information: Re-sharing the testing calendar and bell schedule modification for finals week. Please inform your students of the block periods scheduled for finals week. Information will also be posted on school's website for parents and community.
Our accountability addressing students' progress will soon come to fruition as we wind down these last few weeks of the school year. Our targeted goals as stated in the Academic/Financial plan must be met whether it be through the Hawaii State Assessments (HSA) outcomes, graduation rates, promotion/retention rates, failures, report cards, etc. As shared previously, the responsibility for students' growth lies with all of us and not in just one department or program. Please continue your efforts in reviewing your data, articulating within and across programs, and ensuring that sound instruction ensures that benchmarks/standards are covered and differentiated for students' success.
Administration will be meeting department heads on Monday, May 2nd 2:30 p.m. @library as there are several important items that must be addressed in a timely manner. Asking that Literacy coaches also attend.
As we start the final week of the State Employees Food Drive I wanted to touch bases with everyone to support this effort. This year more than other years there's an ever growing need. Friday, May 6th is the state's designated last day of the drive and any small donation of a food product is greatly appreciated! Thanks to Harriet Watanabe and her students for taking the lead for this very noble effort.
Finally, extra-curricular/club advisors are to remind their students that their club is responsible for removing their posters/fliers from the campus building walls in a timely manner. This also means should any banners, posters, bulletins, etc. be damaged prior to the end of the event, must also be removed in a timely manner. Important that we model pride and responsibility in caring for our school.
Weekly Reminders:
Department Head Mtg: Department head and Literacy leads meeting on Monday, May 2 @2:30 p.m. in the library.
Website School Calendar: As discussed, please visit school's website calendar addressing school activities, club meetings, etc. to verify accuracy. Want to ensure that information posted are accurate. http://kapaahs.intand.com/index.php
Testing Information: Re-sharing the testing calendar and bell schedule modification for finals week. Please inform your students of the block periods scheduled for finals week. Information will also be posted on school's website for parents and community.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Updates - Week of April 25th
Let me take this opportunity to commend and congratulate our seniors on their senior project presentations. Feedback overall was very positive as students demonstrated those qualities of what we look for in a high school graduate. Special acknowledgements to grade 12 English teachers Ms. Boiser, Ms. Carvalho, Ms. Farina, Ms. Gowan, Mr. Mireles and Ms. Pahl....for their patience and perseverance in working with the seniors. Thanks also goes out to the many helpers in the organization of materials, snacks and coordination of the panelists. Hope everyone got to read Kara Kitamura's article about the senior projects in this past Friday's Garden Island.
I'm scheduling a special meeting on Monday, April 25th with department heads from Mathematics, Science and English to discuss the Hawaii State Assessment scheduled to be administered over the next few weeks. All computer labs are to be made available for our 10th grade students to do their assessments as this remains as one of our school's accountability priority focus. Current results reflect that there is still much work ahead and we remain confident that per the interventions, final round of testing over the next three weeks will show positive growth. As shared the current data shows that the percentage of students meeting proficiency are below our targeted benchmarks. Math @28% of students met proficiency; Reading @ 67% proficiency; and Science @34% proficiency. While we have a ways to go to meet our benchmark target of 90%, know that the content area teachers have been working diligently with our students.
Finally, want to extend special "kudos" to our clerical staff for their dedicated efforts! Administrative Professional's Week (April 24 - 30, 2011) serves to remind us about how we value their daily good work in multitasking so that our overall operations runs smoothly! Truly a wonderful team and we are so very fortunate!
Reminders:
Department Head Mtg: Department heads from Mathematics, English and Science, VPs, Core Coordinator and Tech Coordinator are to meet with Principal on Monday, April 25th to discuss the HSA and Tera Nova assessment. Teachers from these content areas are also welcome to attend. Meeting will be held in the library promptly @2:30 p.m.
Will also be meeting with each department head individually on Monday to share the SY 2011-12 teaching lines and possible room changes. For now, planning to meet during your prep time.
Principals Meeting: I will be attending a principals' mtg on Tuesday, April 26th @Complex Area Office in Lihue. Both Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison will be in charge.
School Community Council Mtg: The next monthly SCC meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 26th @5:30 p.m. in the Student Center.
Faculty Meeting: There will be faculty meeting on Wednesday, April 27th at the Chorus room at 2:00 p.m.
Vice-Principal & Athletic Director's Mtg: VPs and AD will be attending their monthly administrators' meeting on Thursday, April 28th from 8 - 3:00 p.m. @Complex Area Office.
PTSA Student Recognition: On Friday, April 29th during lunch, ice-cream treats will be given to all students who made a GPA of 3.0 or higher as well as for attendance. Ice-cream will be passed out at the Student Center.
Finals: Sharing the finals schedule for 4th quarter which was shared at the beginning of this year:
May 16th English and electives for seniors;
May 17th Math & electives for 9 - 12;
May 18th Social Studies & Science for 9 - 12; and
May 19th Math and electives for 9 - 11.
All grades verified and due by 3:00 p.m. May 27th (No Exceptions)
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
I'm scheduling a special meeting on Monday, April 25th with department heads from Mathematics, Science and English to discuss the Hawaii State Assessment scheduled to be administered over the next few weeks. All computer labs are to be made available for our 10th grade students to do their assessments as this remains as one of our school's accountability priority focus. Current results reflect that there is still much work ahead and we remain confident that per the interventions, final round of testing over the next three weeks will show positive growth. As shared the current data shows that the percentage of students meeting proficiency are below our targeted benchmarks. Math @28% of students met proficiency; Reading @ 67% proficiency; and Science @34% proficiency. While we have a ways to go to meet our benchmark target of 90%, know that the content area teachers have been working diligently with our students.
Finally, want to extend special "kudos" to our clerical staff for their dedicated efforts! Administrative Professional's Week (April 24 - 30, 2011) serves to remind us about how we value their daily good work in multitasking so that our overall operations runs smoothly! Truly a wonderful team and we are so very fortunate!
Reminders:
Department Head Mtg: Department heads from Mathematics, English and Science, VPs, Core Coordinator and Tech Coordinator are to meet with Principal on Monday, April 25th to discuss the HSA and Tera Nova assessment. Teachers from these content areas are also welcome to attend. Meeting will be held in the library promptly @2:30 p.m.
Will also be meeting with each department head individually on Monday to share the SY 2011-12 teaching lines and possible room changes. For now, planning to meet during your prep time.
Principals Meeting: I will be attending a principals' mtg on Tuesday, April 26th @Complex Area Office in Lihue. Both Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison will be in charge.
School Community Council Mtg: The next monthly SCC meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 26th @5:30 p.m. in the Student Center.
Faculty Meeting: There will be faculty meeting on Wednesday, April 27th at the Chorus room at 2:00 p.m.
Vice-Principal & Athletic Director's Mtg: VPs and AD will be attending their monthly administrators' meeting on Thursday, April 28th from 8 - 3:00 p.m. @Complex Area Office.
PTSA Student Recognition: On Friday, April 29th during lunch, ice-cream treats will be given to all students who made a GPA of 3.0 or higher as well as for attendance. Ice-cream will be passed out at the Student Center.
Finals: Sharing the finals schedule for 4th quarter which was shared at the beginning of this year:
May 16th English and electives for seniors;
May 17th Math & electives for 9 - 12;
May 18th Social Studies & Science for 9 - 12; and
May 19th Math and electives for 9 - 11.
All grades verified and due by 3:00 p.m. May 27th (No Exceptions)
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Updates - Week of April 18th, 2011
Best way to get feedback about our work is directly from our customers. In speaking with our students, there's no lack of shyness as they are willing to share their ideas about areas where we can improve as well as our strengths. Their sense of openness and honesty can be quite interesting and rejuvenating. Over the past weeks, students have on their own accord came forward in sharing their thoughts, appreciation and concerns. Overall, a good number are pleased with their educational experiences as they feel that most adults really care in taking that time to work with them. Still, there were a number of students who felt that some adults didn't care. Several spoke of being put down, made examples of in front of their peers and receiving busy book work assignments with little explanation about their assignments. In fact, several students shared that they are not challenged and had no understanding for the purpose of their assignments and how they were being graded. Reason for sharing is to remind everyone that we must continue to be diligent and cognizant in how we work with "every" student no matter how challenging. Students needs encouragement, feedback about their progress, and focused learning activities that's differentiated, consistent and rigorous. They need to know that we care and believe in them. Let me be very clear that I do believe that we have terrific examples of teaching and mentoring across our school! We must work to ensure this consistent practice across all classrooms, support programs and administration.
Kudos to our Kapaa High School Foundation for their Walk/Run fund raiser this past Saturday at the Kapaa Beach Park pathway. Great to see former graduates, community, staff and students support our school's foundation. Special kudos to Mr. Brandon Fujita, Greg Gonsalves, Nancy Borilez, and students who came out early to help support this event. As you are aware the Foundation continues to be very generous in their financial support for our school-wide activities.
Received most of the department's teaching line recommendations and Mr. Barcial and I are close to finalizing for SY 2011-12. Truly appreciate everyone's input as it really helps provide guidance and as shared earlier, my final decision will be based on what strengths each teacher brings. Please also note, that there will be several room changes in supporting our 9th grade HUI and also planning for the 10th grade HUI for SY 2012-13.
Learned of final voting results for the proposed bell schedule while doing Castle High School's accreditation. Results clearly show that half of our staff may not be ready for this change and it validates that there is still much work to do in helping to bring clear understanding as to purpose. Let me be very clear, that we will provide equal educational opportunities for our students and we will do this through a collaborative process. With the recent (April 7th) Board of Education's approved revisions to BOE Policy 4540 that states there will be a minimum of 25 credits for both the College and Career Diploma and for the BOE College and Career Recognition Diploma, their directives are clear. There is still ample time to address this change and per ACT 51, we have that autonomy to determine how we will do this. Will have further discussions beginning the week of April 25th.
Finally, want to wish our seniors the very best in their presentations this week. Per my classroom visits, appreciate the amount of good work that students had to put into this culminating project as well as their teachers who had to provide that focused support. Looking forward to the Class of 2011 presentations as the senior projects were designed to demonstrate the vision of a high school graduate......in possessing the attitudes, knowledge and skills necessary to contribute positively and compete in a global society.
Reminders:
Senior Project Presentations: Reminder we'll be on a Wednesday schedule due to Senior Project presentations this week. Students' release time will be at 1:35 p.m. Please check and remove any old calendars that states April 20th as a "collaboration " day. Revised calendar were shared at the beginning of the school year.
PTSA Meeting: Monthly PTSA meeting will be held on Monday, April 18, 2011 6:30 p.m. at the Student Center
Kapaa High Foundation Meeting: Monthly KHS Foundation meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 6:00 p.m. at the Student Center.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
Kudos to our Kapaa High School Foundation for their Walk/Run fund raiser this past Saturday at the Kapaa Beach Park pathway. Great to see former graduates, community, staff and students support our school's foundation. Special kudos to Mr. Brandon Fujita, Greg Gonsalves, Nancy Borilez, and students who came out early to help support this event. As you are aware the Foundation continues to be very generous in their financial support for our school-wide activities.
Received most of the department's teaching line recommendations and Mr. Barcial and I are close to finalizing for SY 2011-12. Truly appreciate everyone's input as it really helps provide guidance and as shared earlier, my final decision will be based on what strengths each teacher brings. Please also note, that there will be several room changes in supporting our 9th grade HUI and also planning for the 10th grade HUI for SY 2012-13.
Learned of final voting results for the proposed bell schedule while doing Castle High School's accreditation. Results clearly show that half of our staff may not be ready for this change and it validates that there is still much work to do in helping to bring clear understanding as to purpose. Let me be very clear, that we will provide equal educational opportunities for our students and we will do this through a collaborative process. With the recent (April 7th) Board of Education's approved revisions to BOE Policy 4540 that states there will be a minimum of 25 credits for both the College and Career Diploma and for the BOE College and Career Recognition Diploma, their directives are clear. There is still ample time to address this change and per ACT 51, we have that autonomy to determine how we will do this. Will have further discussions beginning the week of April 25th.
Finally, want to wish our seniors the very best in their presentations this week. Per my classroom visits, appreciate the amount of good work that students had to put into this culminating project as well as their teachers who had to provide that focused support. Looking forward to the Class of 2011 presentations as the senior projects were designed to demonstrate the vision of a high school graduate......in possessing the attitudes, knowledge and skills necessary to contribute positively and compete in a global society.
Reminders:
Senior Project Presentations: Reminder we'll be on a Wednesday schedule due to Senior Project presentations this week. Students' release time will be at 1:35 p.m. Please check and remove any old calendars that states April 20th as a "collaboration " day. Revised calendar were shared at the beginning of the school year.
PTSA Meeting: Monthly PTSA meeting will be held on Monday, April 18, 2011 6:30 p.m. at the Student Center
Kapaa High Foundation Meeting: Monthly KHS Foundation meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 6:00 p.m. at the Student Center.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Updates - Week of April 11th
As we begin this new week, instructional calendar shows approximately seven weeks or 30 instructional days left in the school year. Clearly we are all aware of the work yet to be done....the content standards that still needs to be covered, ensuring that our grade 10 students are able to demonstrate positive levels of proficiency per the Hawaii State Assessment (HSA), senior projects/presentations, PTP work yet to be finalized, etc. The true testament of our efforts will be seen per the results of our collective efforts at the end of the school year.
We continue to also plan for the SY 2011-12 teaching lines as Mr. Barcial has shared both the student count projections and a sample template for each department to provide their teaching line recommendations. Appreciate the discussions with various departments in providing me guidance as to how they believe the master schedule should look like. Each department's feedback is an important process for solid input. At the end of the day, my final decision will continue to be based on what strengths each teacher brings as the education of our students can never be left to chance. The importance of knowing how every content area teacher and support staff can support every student remains critical.
Please remind your students on the importance that they remain focused and responsible in their school work and attendance. This holds especially true for the seniors as administration has taken time to personally speak with a few of them as their attendance (especially tardiness) and grades are on the edge. Parents of seniors who have not adhered their senior agreements have already been informed that their child will not be participating in the graduation ceremony. Very difficult to see some of our seniors lose that opportunity to walk with their peers after 13 years of schooling. At the end of the day we must remember that participation in the graduation ceremony is a privilege and not a right....the diploma that's earned is a right! Bottom-line, we expect all students and especially our seniors to model the GLOs.
Reminders:
Principal Out-of-Office: I will be serving on an accreditation work group for James B. Castle High School April 11 - 14th and returning to the office on Friday, April 15th. Both Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison will be in charge.
Faculty Meeting: Faculty meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 13th 2:00 p.m. @Library to discuss for the upcoming Senior Projects as well as an update status of Hawaii State Assessment interventions and SY 2011-12 master schedule. Both Diane Ayre & Todd Harrison will be in charge of the meeting.
Senior Project Presentations: Senior Project presentations are scheduled during the week of April 18 - 21, 2011. School will be on a Wednesday schedule for that week and students' release time will be at 1:35 p.m. Ask that everyone be aware of the expectations that is shared @wEdnesday's faculty meeting.
Teacher Line Template: Registrar Todd Barcial e-mailed a copy of the teacher line templates to all Department Heads. DHs are to work with their teachers and submit recommendations for SY 2011-12 to the principal by 12:00 p.m. Friday, April 15th.
Kapaa High School Foundation Fun Run/Walk Fund-raiser: The Kapaa High School Foundation will be having its first annual Fun/Walk event @Kapaa Walking Path on Saturday, April 16th, beginning at 7:00 a.m. Encourage all staff and students to support our school's Foundation as monies received will ultimately go to support our students. Registration forms can be found on our school's website under the Kapaa High Foundation.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
We continue to also plan for the SY 2011-12 teaching lines as Mr. Barcial has shared both the student count projections and a sample template for each department to provide their teaching line recommendations. Appreciate the discussions with various departments in providing me guidance as to how they believe the master schedule should look like. Each department's feedback is an important process for solid input. At the end of the day, my final decision will continue to be based on what strengths each teacher brings as the education of our students can never be left to chance. The importance of knowing how every content area teacher and support staff can support every student remains critical.
Please remind your students on the importance that they remain focused and responsible in their school work and attendance. This holds especially true for the seniors as administration has taken time to personally speak with a few of them as their attendance (especially tardiness) and grades are on the edge. Parents of seniors who have not adhered their senior agreements have already been informed that their child will not be participating in the graduation ceremony. Very difficult to see some of our seniors lose that opportunity to walk with their peers after 13 years of schooling. At the end of the day we must remember that participation in the graduation ceremony is a privilege and not a right....the diploma that's earned is a right! Bottom-line, we expect all students and especially our seniors to model the GLOs.
Reminders:
Principal Out-of-Office: I will be serving on an accreditation work group for James B. Castle High School April 11 - 14th and returning to the office on Friday, April 15th. Both Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison will be in charge.
Faculty Meeting: Faculty meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 13th 2:00 p.m. @Library to discuss for the upcoming Senior Projects as well as an update status of Hawaii State Assessment interventions and SY 2011-12 master schedule. Both Diane Ayre & Todd Harrison will be in charge of the meeting.
Senior Project Presentations: Senior Project presentations are scheduled during the week of April 18 - 21, 2011. School will be on a Wednesday schedule for that week and students' release time will be at 1:35 p.m. Ask that everyone be aware of the expectations that is shared @wEdnesday's faculty meeting.
Teacher Line Template: Registrar Todd Barcial e-mailed a copy of the teacher line templates to all Department Heads. DHs are to work with their teachers and submit recommendations for SY 2011-12 to the principal by 12:00 p.m. Friday, April 15th.
Kapaa High School Foundation Fun Run/Walk Fund-raiser: The Kapaa High School Foundation will be having its first annual Fun/Walk event @Kapaa Walking Path on Saturday, April 16th, beginning at 7:00 a.m. Encourage all staff and students to support our school's Foundation as monies received will ultimately go to support our students. Registration forms can be found on our school's website under the Kapaa High Foundation.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Updates - Week of March 28th
Reminder on the importance of strategizing what needs to be instructed over the next 9 weeks of school as it is critical that our students are instructed to all standards/benchmarks. More importantly, we must continue to ensure that students' learning is an active process. Too often students come to school and watch their teachers do all of the work. When students use what they learn through application (quadrant B) , adaptation (quadrant D), and applying to real world predictable/unpredictable situations, they remember the information better and understand the utility of what is being taught. This is fundamental in preparing students for the 21st century.
At the last faculty meeting I shared about Department of Education having to plan for the strong possibility of reducing our operating budget due to Hawaii's financial challenges. Per Legislative House Bill 200, H.D. 1., the DOE is facing an operating budget reduction of $55 million in fiscal years 2011-12 and 2012-13. While it is still quite early in the legislative process, asking department heads to meet with their teachers to plan and submit your purchase requests for needs supplies, instructional materials, etc. for SY 2011-12. Ask that departments work on this over the next three - four weeks and administration will also be meeting with each department was well.
We will continue to be proactive as we know where our school needs to be over the next few years. Change is a constant reality of life and we are aware as to major disasters and other global upheaval creates unwanted economic impacts. We have the right focus and vision in prepare our students for 21st century citizenship....our Academic & Financial plans reflect this and we will get through no matter what challenges we are faced with! These five key points are already helping secure fiscal and personnel resource support:
1. Improving pedagogy practices, differentiating instruction based on students' needs, and using data effectively are fundamental for student achievement progress;
2. Implementation of the Smaller Learning Community 9th & 10th grade HUIs and Pathways through focused learning supports, safety nets, and personalization;
3. Implementing a bell schedule for SY 2012-13 that meets the required BOE Policy 4540 of a minimum of 25 credits affording more academic flexibility and opportunities;
4. Ensure for highly qualified and effective staff in all content areas with focused evidenced based professional development support; and
5. Implement a master schedule that reflects that first "level of differentiation" where qualified staff are assigned strategically in meeting students' needs.
I remain very confident that as we strengthen and drive toward these common purpose, our collective efforts will help our students achieve.
Reminders:
Meeting with Mathematics, English and Science Departments: Based on the current HSA testing data for the second round, would like to meet this Wednesday, March 30th with the three testing content areas and participating teachers. We will be reviewing students' progress data, identifying gap areas, and strategizing what needs to be done for the last HSA assessment in late April. Meeting will be in the library @2:00 p.m.
PEP-T: Administration will be contacting teachers who are on PEP-T to schedule visitation and meeting dates.
HSTA SWIM Meeting Schedule: SWIM meetings are scheduled for all HSTA members by complexes. The following are the dates and sites for the meetings:
Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 - West Complex @Waimea High School Cafeteria 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.;
Thursday, April 7, 2011 - Central Complex @Kauai High School Cafeteria 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.; and
Friday, April 8, 2011 - East Complex @Kapaa High School Cafeteria 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Our students will be released at 1:15 p.m. on Friday, April 8th and more information to be provided shortly.
Personal/Professional Development Leave with Pay: Sharing this reminder again that when taking personal leaves , all teachers must give at least 48 hours advance notice and for professional development leaves must submit the leave form at least one week in advance. Important that we have consistent practices and more information can be found in Article XII of the Agreement between the HSTA and the State of Hawaii Board of Education.
Title III – U. S. DOE monitoring: A team from the U. S. Department of Education will be in Hawaii monitoring schools across the state addressing working
with English language Learners students during the week of April 11th.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
At the last faculty meeting I shared about Department of Education having to plan for the strong possibility of reducing our operating budget due to Hawaii's financial challenges. Per Legislative House Bill 200, H.D. 1., the DOE is facing an operating budget reduction of $55 million in fiscal years 2011-12 and 2012-13. While it is still quite early in the legislative process, asking department heads to meet with their teachers to plan and submit your purchase requests for needs supplies, instructional materials, etc. for SY 2011-12. Ask that departments work on this over the next three - four weeks and administration will also be meeting with each department was well.
We will continue to be proactive as we know where our school needs to be over the next few years. Change is a constant reality of life and we are aware as to major disasters and other global upheaval creates unwanted economic impacts. We have the right focus and vision in prepare our students for 21st century citizenship....our Academic & Financial plans reflect this and we will get through no matter what challenges we are faced with! These five key points are already helping secure fiscal and personnel resource support:
1. Improving pedagogy practices, differentiating instruction based on students' needs, and using data effectively are fundamental for student achievement progress;
2. Implementation of the Smaller Learning Community 9th & 10th grade HUIs and Pathways through focused learning supports, safety nets, and personalization;
3. Implementing a bell schedule for SY 2012-13 that meets the required BOE Policy 4540 of a minimum of 25 credits affording more academic flexibility and opportunities;
4. Ensure for highly qualified and effective staff in all content areas with focused evidenced based professional development support; and
5. Implement a master schedule that reflects that first "level of differentiation" where qualified staff are assigned strategically in meeting students' needs.
I remain very confident that as we strengthen and drive toward these common purpose, our collective efforts will help our students achieve.
Reminders:
Meeting with Mathematics, English and Science Departments: Based on the current HSA testing data for the second round, would like to meet this Wednesday, March 30th with the three testing content areas and participating teachers. We will be reviewing students' progress data, identifying gap areas, and strategizing what needs to be done for the last HSA assessment in late April. Meeting will be in the library @2:00 p.m.
PEP-T: Administration will be contacting teachers who are on PEP-T to schedule visitation and meeting dates.
HSTA SWIM Meeting Schedule: SWIM meetings are scheduled for all HSTA members by complexes. The following are the dates and sites for the meetings:
Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 - West Complex @Waimea High School Cafeteria 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.;
Thursday, April 7, 2011 - Central Complex @Kauai High School Cafeteria 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.; and
Friday, April 8, 2011 - East Complex @Kapaa High School Cafeteria 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Our students will be released at 1:15 p.m. on Friday, April 8th and more information to be provided shortly.
Personal/Professional Development Leave with Pay: Sharing this reminder again that when taking personal leaves , all teachers must give at least 48 hours advance notice and for professional development leaves must submit the leave form at least one week in advance. Important that we have consistent practices and more information can be found in Article XII of the Agreement between the HSTA and the State of Hawaii Board of Education.
Title III – U. S. DOE monitoring: A team from the U. S. Department of Education will be in Hawaii monitoring schools across the state addressing working
with English language Learners students during the week of April 11th.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Kapaa High School Foundation grants available
The Kapaa High School Foundation is now accepting applications for three grants of $500.00 each to Kapaa High School Class of 2011 Seniors. Although a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 is required, academic achievement is not a major consideration for this grant. The emphasis for the getting the award will be on the students’ active participation in community and school service projects and programs.
The deadline is April 15, 2011. For more information, please visit the website at: http://kapaahighschoolfoundation.org
For more criteria on the awards, go to the Kapaa High School Counselors Office or download The Student Grant information page and application form through the above website.
The deadline is April 15, 2011. For more information, please visit the website at: http://kapaahighschoolfoundation.org
For more criteria on the awards, go to the Kapaa High School Counselors Office or download The Student Grant information page and application form through the above website.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Welcome back and hope that everyone had a restful Spring Break!
As we begin the 4th quarter, important that we take inventory of our students' progress to the standards. Knowing and strategizing what needs to be instructed over the next ten weeks of school is critical. Kapaa High School's Academic/Financial plans outlines our academic accountability and as the school year winds down, we will need to share our progress with the School Community Council, PTSA and greater community.
In the midst of disasters that continues to impact Japan, global upheaval especially within the middle east countries, worldwide economic fallout, and the current financial deficits faced by several states, puts into perspective how we are all globally impacted. Preparing our students as citizens for the 21st century global economy is a reality and whatever our roles, collectively we are entrusted with that important responsibility.
Truly believe that our focused actions continues to be the right course. We continue to be proactive in striving for our vision addressing:
Implementation of the Smaller Learning HUIs and Pathways in providing focused learning supports, safety nets, and personalization. Current evidence shows that we need to take action as nearly 30% of our ninth graders continue to fail/drop-out by their senior year;
Improving pedagogy practices, differentiating instruction based on students' needs, and using data effectively are fundamental for student achievement progress;
Implementing a bell schedule that meets the required BOE Policy 4540 of a minimum of 25 credits affording more academic flexibility and opportunities;
Highly qualified staff in all content areas with focused evidenced based professional development support; and
Our school's master schedule reflects that first level of differentiation where qualified staff are assigned strategically in meeting students' needs.
We will stay the course in strengthening our foundation and purpose. Collectively, our collective wisdom, talents and focused commitment will afford solid learning opportunities for "ALL" students.
Reminders:
Inventory Folders: Inventory folders will be distributed this week and are due no later than April 13th. Please do not write over the property number located to the left of each item. For those who did not turn in your inventory last year by the due date, your deleted items will still be listed on this report. There are many items that are unaccounted for and the search in the missing file will be a large task. If you have any questions contact Leila Kaneholani.
Personal/Professional Development Leave with Pay: Reminder that when taking personal leaves, all teachers must give at least 48 hours advance notice and for professional development leaves must submit the leave form at least one week in advance. Important that we have consistent practices and accountable. More information can be found in the Agreement between the HSTA and the State of Hawaii Board of Education under Article XII.
Faculty Meeting: We will be having a faculty meeting on Wednesday, March 23rd 2:00 p.m. @Library. Discussion topics will cover updates for our Smaller Learning Community progress, addressing questions per the proposed SY 2012-13 bell schedule, SY 2011-12 staffing and master schedule updates.
Summer School: Ryan Harper will be serving as this year's Summer School director and appreciate his willingness to take this on. More information will be forthcoming addressing courses, teaching staff, etc.
Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO): Not to be confused with summer school, we are continuing to implement extended learning opportunity time for those targeted students based on data. Presently, we will focus on the 9th grade students to minimize failures and/or having to retake courses next year. Intervention is part of the Smaller Learning Community (SLC) focus and the ELO coordinator will be shared shortly.
Have a great week!
In the midst of disasters that continues to impact Japan, global upheaval especially within the middle east countries, worldwide economic fallout, and the current financial deficits faced by several states, puts into perspective how we are all globally impacted. Preparing our students as citizens for the 21st century global economy is a reality and whatever our roles, collectively we are entrusted with that important responsibility.
Truly believe that our focused actions continues to be the right course. We continue to be proactive in striving for our vision addressing:
Implementation of the Smaller Learning HUIs and Pathways in providing focused learning supports, safety nets, and personalization. Current evidence shows that we need to take action as nearly 30% of our ninth graders continue to fail/drop-out by their senior year;
Improving pedagogy practices, differentiating instruction based on students' needs, and using data effectively are fundamental for student achievement progress;
Implementing a bell schedule that meets the required BOE Policy 4540 of a minimum of 25 credits affording more academic flexibility and opportunities;
Highly qualified staff in all content areas with focused evidenced based professional development support; and
Our school's master schedule reflects that first level of differentiation where qualified staff are assigned strategically in meeting students' needs.
We will stay the course in strengthening our foundation and purpose. Collectively, our collective wisdom, talents and focused commitment will afford solid learning opportunities for "ALL" students.
Reminders:
Inventory Folders: Inventory folders will be distributed this week and are due no later than April 13th. Please do not write over the property number located to the left of each item. For those who did not turn in your inventory last year by the due date, your deleted items will still be listed on this report. There are many items that are unaccounted for and the search in the missing file will be a large task. If you have any questions contact Leila Kaneholani.
Personal/Professional Development Leave with Pay: Reminder that when taking personal leaves, all teachers must give at least 48 hours advance notice and for professional development leaves must submit the leave form at least one week in advance. Important that we have consistent practices and accountable. More information can be found in the Agreement between the HSTA and the State of Hawaii Board of Education under Article XII.
Faculty Meeting: We will be having a faculty meeting on Wednesday, March 23rd 2:00 p.m. @Library. Discussion topics will cover updates for our Smaller Learning Community progress, addressing questions per the proposed SY 2012-13 bell schedule, SY 2011-12 staffing and master schedule updates.
Summer School: Ryan Harper will be serving as this year's Summer School director and appreciate his willingness to take this on. More information will be forthcoming addressing courses, teaching staff, etc.
Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO): Not to be confused with summer school, we are continuing to implement extended learning opportunity time for those targeted students based on data. Presently, we will focus on the 9th grade students to minimize failures and/or having to retake courses next year. Intervention is part of the Smaller Learning Community (SLC) focus and the ELO coordinator will be shared shortly.
Have a great week!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Back to School: 4th Quarter Begins Monday 21st, 7:45 am sharp!
Here are some clarifications regarding No School days happening in the next week.
There has been some confusion. Those darn furloughs affected dates that had already been published...so this is a correction to some of those calendars. Please help spread the word!
THIS WEEK
MON 21
7:45 am Back To School - 4th Quarter Begins – REGULAR SCHOOL DAY!
FRI 25
Prince Kuhio Day - No School
NEXT WEEK
MON 28
Furlough Day - No School
Monday, February 28, 2011
Updates - Week of Feb. 28th
Let me begin in welcoming Tanya Wadhwani to our "ohana" as she officially started this past Friday, Feb. 25th as our new English teacher. Tanya most recently was at Hawaii Tech Academy and will be a great asset to our school. Ms. Wadhwani spent a good amount of time in working closely with Heather Wickersham to help for that smooth transition.
Kudos to Lisa Mireles as she also became an official member of our staff effective Friday Feb. 25th. Lisa will continue to serve as our half-time SLC grant coordinator as this effort is a critical component of our school's Academic/Financial plans. Mrs. Mireles brings much experience and energy as a former principal, back ground in teaching academia, IB, accreditation, etc.
This past week, our school has benefited in having two key work groups come together in planning and strategically looking at how we can better support our students to be ready for college, career and citizenship for the 21st century:
On Thursday, Feb. 24th a planning group comprised of Diane Ayre, Waianela Boiser, Stephanie Carvalho, Terri Christensen, Ryan Harper, Erin Millard, Lisa Mireles, Brent Mizutani, Cheryl Pahl, and Fred Rivera had a very fruitful session with Larry Gloeckler and Patti from the International Leadership Center looking at how we can better support co-teaching. This commitment to better support teachers involved with co-teaching will happen and school-wide data will be always utilized when making any decisions.
On Friday, Feb. 25th and Saturday, Feb. 26th, our "Laulima" Smaller Learning Community representatives came away from a very productive work session on Maui. Our school team worked with the consortium high schools comprised of Castle, Maui, McKinley, and Pearl City facilitated by Michelle Swanson and Theron Cosgrave. Over the two days, this group worked hard at addressing school structures, strategies and decision points in better supporting students. Members were Diane Ayre, Evan Costa, Janis Gowan, Robyn Keawe, Erin Millard, Lisa Mireles, Calvin Paleka, Catherine Paleka, and Wendy Schwarze. Important updates will be shared at the special faculty meeting on Wednesday, March 2nd.
Want to acknowledge our staff who generously dedicate and volunteer their time. It is truly very humbling, powerful and spiraling when people come together for a common purpose. Believe that the Japanese culture call this "Kaizen"....when you come together in spiraling forward.
At your Monday meetings, ask that each department allow time for discussing/sharing pedagogy practices. Time must be dedicated to learning and sharing with your peers. Examples could be sharing strategies addressing differentiation, clear learning objectives at the beginning of class (bell-to-bell practices), teaching to the various types of learners especially males & females, taxonomic levels of learning from basic knowledge recall to more rigorous levels of analyzing and evaluation, etc. As we support, remind, share and use this time wisely, it will truly help make each one of us more skillful at our craft!
Dialogue w/Kapaa Middle School: Will be continuing our dialogue with the Kapaa Middle for focused discussions based on data addressing the various needed students transition data. The first mtg on Feb. 23rd with their faculty went well in discussing/providing that larger picture. Ongoing discussions will be planned for over the coming months.
Donation to Kapaa High: On March 1st, leaders representing American Savings Bank and DOE are scheduled to be on campus around mid-morning for a donation ceremony to our school. Please remind your students that about the GLO practices as we continue to be blessed with business and community supports....we must continue to build our community's confidence in our school as they entrust us with their children's education.
Special Faculty Meeting: With the Spring Break time frame and items needed to be addressed in timely manner, we will be having a special faculty meeting on Wednesday, March 2nd 2:00 p.m. @Library. Items to be discussed are the updated proposals for the SY 2012-13 bell schedule, SLC structure and strategies, staffing/teaching lines and budget.
State Board of Education Meeting: The State Board of Education will be having their next public meeting at Kekaha Elementary School on Thursday, March 3rd beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
Kudos to Lisa Mireles as she also became an official member of our staff effective Friday Feb. 25th. Lisa will continue to serve as our half-time SLC grant coordinator as this effort is a critical component of our school's Academic/Financial plans. Mrs. Mireles brings much experience and energy as a former principal, back ground in teaching academia, IB, accreditation, etc.
This past week, our school has benefited in having two key work groups come together in planning and strategically looking at how we can better support our students to be ready for college, career and citizenship for the 21st century:
On Thursday, Feb. 24th a planning group comprised of Diane Ayre, Waianela Boiser, Stephanie Carvalho, Terri Christensen, Ryan Harper, Erin Millard, Lisa Mireles, Brent Mizutani, Cheryl Pahl, and Fred Rivera had a very fruitful session with Larry Gloeckler and Patti from the International Leadership Center looking at how we can better support co-teaching. This commitment to better support teachers involved with co-teaching will happen and school-wide data will be always utilized when making any decisions.
On Friday, Feb. 25th and Saturday, Feb. 26th, our "Laulima" Smaller Learning Community representatives came away from a very productive work session on Maui. Our school team worked with the consortium high schools comprised of Castle, Maui, McKinley, and Pearl City facilitated by Michelle Swanson and Theron Cosgrave. Over the two days, this group worked hard at addressing school structures, strategies and decision points in better supporting students. Members were Diane Ayre, Evan Costa, Janis Gowan, Robyn Keawe, Erin Millard, Lisa Mireles, Calvin Paleka, Catherine Paleka, and Wendy Schwarze. Important updates will be shared at the special faculty meeting on Wednesday, March 2nd.
Want to acknowledge our staff who generously dedicate and volunteer their time. It is truly very humbling, powerful and spiraling when people come together for a common purpose. Believe that the Japanese culture call this "Kaizen"....when you come together in spiraling forward.
At your Monday meetings, ask that each department allow time for discussing/sharing pedagogy practices. Time must be dedicated to learning and sharing with your peers. Examples could be sharing strategies addressing differentiation, clear learning objectives at the beginning of class (bell-to-bell practices), teaching to the various types of learners especially males & females, taxonomic levels of learning from basic knowledge recall to more rigorous levels of analyzing and evaluation, etc. As we support, remind, share and use this time wisely, it will truly help make each one of us more skillful at our craft!
Dialogue w/Kapaa Middle School: Will be continuing our dialogue with the Kapaa Middle for focused discussions based on data addressing the various needed students transition data. The first mtg on Feb. 23rd with their faculty went well in discussing/providing that larger picture. Ongoing discussions will be planned for over the coming months.
Donation to Kapaa High: On March 1st, leaders representing American Savings Bank and DOE are scheduled to be on campus around mid-morning for a donation ceremony to our school. Please remind your students that about the GLO practices as we continue to be blessed with business and community supports....we must continue to build our community's confidence in our school as they entrust us with their children's education.
Special Faculty Meeting: With the Spring Break time frame and items needed to be addressed in timely manner, we will be having a special faculty meeting on Wednesday, March 2nd 2:00 p.m. @Library. Items to be discussed are the updated proposals for the SY 2012-13 bell schedule, SLC structure and strategies, staffing/teaching lines and budget.
State Board of Education Meeting: The State Board of Education will be having their next public meeting at Kekaha Elementary School on Thursday, March 3rd beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Kapaa High School cares for and supports "ALL" students to be prepared for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st century.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Kamp Kauai’s Open House
Kamp Kauai’s Open House
By August Trumm (Advertising Director)
On Tuesday, March 1, 2011, the students of Kapa’a High School’s Virtual Enterprise class will be presenting their virtual business at Kaua’i Beach Resort’s Jasmine Ballroom. The presentation will be from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. The virtual business, Kamp Kaua’i, is a group/family-based camp that would be located along the Wailua River. It includes on-site and off-site activities, along with activities packages and overnight accommodations. Topics in the presentation will range from the making of the business plan, the employee manual, and the catalog to the construction of the website. The public is invited. Please RSVP as soon as possible, by calling Christine Farina at 808-821-4400 ext. 170.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Weekly Principal's Address Monday February 14
At Wednesday's, February 16th faculty mtg, will focus on four areas that link closely together as part of our school's long term vision. As you are aware, our school's Academic/Financial plan contains all four elements in providing our overall road map for accountability. Four topics are:
1st) Smaller Learning Communities...... updates in our work on the 9th grade HUIs and the Mini - mags;
2nd) Draft Bell Schedule for SY 2012-13......based on the departments mtg feedback/questions will determine our next steps;
3rd) SY 2011-12 Master Schedule draft.....we will discuss what staffing lines may be in place for SY 2011-12; and
4th) SY 2011-12 staffing projections
Attached below is the breakdown of the instructional minutes per our current, proposed bell schedule and SLC updates Asking that everyone review and discus at your department mtgs this week.
As shared earlier, last week the State Board of Education approved School Year 2011-12 calendar. Attaching Superintendent Matayoshi's memo and approved calendar. 2011-2012 Official School Calendar Memo>>>
Finally, a friendly reminder that all staff must report and sign in on time. Certainly understandable as there are unforeseen situations but quite concerned when this becomes a pattern. This also includes excessive absences as well. As professionals, we must be positive role models and please note that administration will require a meeting and documentation.
Principal @SLC Consortium Mtg: I will be off campus Monday, Feb. 14th attending the Smaller Learning Consortium meeting. Both Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison are in charge.
PACT: Reminder to utilize your afternoon collaboration time fully this week as topics need to be addressed to determine our school's next steps.
Faculty Meeting: The next faculty mtg will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 16th in the Library. Agenda discussions will focus on the proposed bell schedule for SY 2012-13, SY 2011-12 master schedule and staffing, and Smaller Learning Community updates. You'll also get to meet our new PCNC Nancy Boreliz at that time.
Kauai District Science Fair: Hope that you are able to drop in to support Kauai's students whose science projects will be displayed at the Convention Hall in Lihue on Friday, Feb. 18th. Visitation for the public Begins around 4:00 p.m. and the awards ceremony @6:00 p.m.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
1st) Smaller Learning Communities...... updates in our work on the 9th grade HUIs and the Mini - mags;
2nd) Draft Bell Schedule for SY 2012-13......based on the departments mtg feedback/questions will determine our next steps;
3rd) SY 2011-12 Master Schedule draft.....we will discuss what staffing lines may be in place for SY 2011-12; and
4th) SY 2011-12 staffing projections
Attached below is the breakdown of the instructional minutes per our current, proposed bell schedule and SLC updates Asking that everyone review and discus at your department mtgs this week.
As shared earlier, last week the State Board of Education approved School Year 2011-12 calendar. Attaching Superintendent Matayoshi's memo and approved calendar. 2011-2012 Official School Calendar Memo>>>
Finally, a friendly reminder that all staff must report and sign in on time. Certainly understandable as there are unforeseen situations but quite concerned when this becomes a pattern. This also includes excessive absences as well. As professionals, we must be positive role models and please note that administration will require a meeting and documentation.
Principal @SLC Consortium Mtg: I will be off campus Monday, Feb. 14th attending the Smaller Learning Consortium meeting. Both Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison are in charge.
PACT: Reminder to utilize your afternoon collaboration time fully this week as topics need to be addressed to determine our school's next steps.
Faculty Meeting: The next faculty mtg will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 16th in the Library. Agenda discussions will focus on the proposed bell schedule for SY 2012-13, SY 2011-12 master schedule and staffing, and Smaller Learning Community updates. You'll also get to meet our new PCNC Nancy Boreliz at that time.
Kauai District Science Fair: Hope that you are able to drop in to support Kauai's students whose science projects will be displayed at the Convention Hall in Lihue on Friday, Feb. 18th. Visitation for the public Begins around 4:00 p.m. and the awards ceremony @6:00 p.m.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Weekly Principal's Address 2-7-2011
Mahalo for the continued feedback addressing the proposed bell schedule for SY 2012-13. Believe that we are coming to that point where most of the questions/feedback have been addressed. In fact, a good number have shared that the bell proposal was taking a more definitive shape....especially as the "significant adult" period needed more clarification. Remember that our goal is to first collectively create a proposed bell schedule, carry-out the voting process, and ultimately take that quality time next school year in finalizing/planning out the details. Attached is the updated draft that will be discussed with department heads and faculty.
Administration will be sharing SY 2011-12 master schedule draft with the department heads and faculty over the next two weeks. It will reflect number of projected positions and teaching lines. Critical that we always keep that larger picture/goal in mind as each of these elements such the master schedule, bell schedule, and SLC HUIs & mini-mags, DSI assessment, etc. are linked together within our Academic/Financial plans. Collectively all of these critical elements help form our road map toward our school's vision in preparing all students for college and careers in the 21st century. Should any community individual(s) ask what Kapaa High School is about, you have your talking points to speak too.
This past week, the State Board of Education approved SY 2011-12 calendar and attached is the pdf. Will provide a more specific calendar probably in April that includes major activities such as converting instructional days to professional development days, HSA testing dates, etc.
Finally, special thanks to Bridget Arume, the Eastside Family Summit Committee and the many volunteers for another successful event. This past Saturday's event marked the 8th Annual Family Summit held to strengthen and inspire Kauai's families to choose a drug-free life through prevention and education. Special kudos to our students and staff who volunteered and entertained...it was an Outstanding Job and Outstanding Day!!!
Principal @State-level Mtg: I will be off campus for most of Monday, Feb. 7th meeting with State Superintendent Matayoshi and several administrators. Will be back in the office later Monday afternoon. Both Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison are in charge.
Department Head Meeting: The next department head mtg will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 9th in the Student Center Bldg. conference room. Agenda discussions will focus on the proposed bell schedule, SY 2011-12 master schedule and staffing, and Smaller Learning Community updates.
Literacy for Learning: The third session addressing Data for School Improvement - What Comes after Assessment" for Administrators and Literacy coaches will be held on Thursday, Feb. 10th @ 8:30 a.m. in the District Office Conference room 2nd floor. Official memo from CAS Bill Arakaki is forthcoming.
Project Graduation fund-raiser: Hope you can come out to support Kapaa high's Project Grad fund-raiser at the Kapaa McDonalds on Thursday, Feb. 10th starting @5:30 p.m. Number of our staff and community individuals will be working at several stations.
SMART Board training session: For those teachers that signed up for the Smart Board training, reminder that it will be held on Friday, 11th in the library starting promptly at 8:00 a.m.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Administration will be sharing SY 2011-12 master schedule draft with the department heads and faculty over the next two weeks. It will reflect number of projected positions and teaching lines. Critical that we always keep that larger picture/goal in mind as each of these elements such the master schedule, bell schedule, and SLC HUIs & mini-mags, DSI assessment, etc. are linked together within our Academic/Financial plans. Collectively all of these critical elements help form our road map toward our school's vision in preparing all students for college and careers in the 21st century. Should any community individual(s) ask what Kapaa High School is about, you have your talking points to speak too.
This past week, the State Board of Education approved SY 2011-12 calendar and attached is the pdf. Will provide a more specific calendar probably in April that includes major activities such as converting instructional days to professional development days, HSA testing dates, etc.
Finally, special thanks to Bridget Arume, the Eastside Family Summit Committee and the many volunteers for another successful event. This past Saturday's event marked the 8th Annual Family Summit held to strengthen and inspire Kauai's families to choose a drug-free life through prevention and education. Special kudos to our students and staff who volunteered and entertained...it was an Outstanding Job and Outstanding Day!!!
Principal @State-level Mtg: I will be off campus for most of Monday, Feb. 7th meeting with State Superintendent Matayoshi and several administrators. Will be back in the office later Monday afternoon. Both Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison are in charge.
Department Head Meeting: The next department head mtg will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 9th in the Student Center Bldg. conference room. Agenda discussions will focus on the proposed bell schedule, SY 2011-12 master schedule and staffing, and Smaller Learning Community updates.
Literacy for Learning: The third session addressing Data for School Improvement - What Comes after Assessment" for Administrators and Literacy coaches will be held on Thursday, Feb. 10th @ 8:30 a.m. in the District Office Conference room 2nd floor. Official memo from CAS Bill Arakaki is forthcoming.
Project Graduation fund-raiser: Hope you can come out to support Kapaa high's Project Grad fund-raiser at the Kapaa McDonalds on Thursday, Feb. 10th starting @5:30 p.m. Number of our staff and community individuals will be working at several stations.
SMART Board training session: For those teachers that signed up for the Smart Board training, reminder that it will be held on Friday, 11th in the library starting promptly at 8:00 a.m.
Have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Monday, January 31, 2011
Weekly Principal's Address 1-31-2011
Welcome to Nancy Borilez who has agreed to serve as our new PCNC. We are currently working with Nancy to get all of the needed forms finalized so she can come on board as soon as possible. I was very impressed with Nancy and know she will be very instrumental in helping Kapaa High continue strengthening our partnerships with community, businesses and families.
Our first of several training sessions on the use of SMART boards be on Friday, February 11th. Closing the sign-up list if you haven't yet contacted Mike Maddock as we want to ensure each group is of a reasonable size. Still, great to see that we have a good number of staff interested. As we provide ongoing support sessions, ask that we all remain committed to model PLC where we support and share our learning with others. Want to thank Mike Maddock in making this a reality!
Want to remind all staff members on the importance of being positive role models. Whatever our job responsibilities, students look to us as role models. When we expect students to report to school/classes on time, we need to model this we in our daily work; when we ask students to treat each other with respect, critical that we are positive role models; when we expect students to dress appropriately, so should we as professionals; and when we ask students to do their best, we must also collectively & individually do our best. Here's a Hawaiian proverb that reflects my philosophy as a member of the Kapaa High ohana..... Ahuwale ka po`okela I kau hana la ha`i. It is through the way you serve others that your greatness will be felt.
Hawaii State Department of Education: Below are three recent articles that provide updates on Hawaii's Department of Education progress and it's alignment with the national efforts. As you read excerpts from President Obama's State of the Union speech, Hawaii's Strategic Plan 2011-2018, and the Hawaii's Race to the Top reform efforts....please take stock/proud of your good work as Kapaa High's focus are becoming nicely aligned and we are making good progress! Examples of our efforts are thru Smaller Learning Community focus, meeting Board of Education Graduation Policy 4540 per our work for a new bell schedule, using formative assessments such as DSI; and building our efforts in using data per standards based student learning. Our Academic/Financial plan clearly defines these goals and perhaps more importantly, shows our proactive planning and going after key resources in making our vision a reality.
GLO Awards: Students who have met the GLO expectations can again redeem their coupons on Monday, Jan 31st in the cafeteria during lunch. Please continue to congratulate these students for their good work and special kudos to those staff members who came out to help.
2011 Kauai District Science Fair: Please help support our students as well as the other district middle & high school finalists at the Kauai District Science Fair on Friday, Feb. 18th @Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. The display viewing will be open to the public until 6:00 p.m. with the student recognition and awards ceremony following shortly.
Common Core State Standards: Beth Pemberton is finalizing the coordination for those teachers/staff members to attend the initial Common Core training for secondary school levels. Session will be held on March 3rd at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall.
Office Changes: Effective February 1st, Beth Pemberton's office will be located in the Student Center to allow her to also spend more time on the Smaller Learning reform efforts. Our new PCNC Nancy Boreliz will be taking over Beth's office in the Admin Bldg.
That's it and have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Our first of several training sessions on the use of SMART boards be on Friday, February 11th. Closing the sign-up list if you haven't yet contacted Mike Maddock as we want to ensure each group is of a reasonable size. Still, great to see that we have a good number of staff interested. As we provide ongoing support sessions, ask that we all remain committed to model PLC where we support and share our learning with others. Want to thank Mike Maddock in making this a reality!
Want to remind all staff members on the importance of being positive role models. Whatever our job responsibilities, students look to us as role models. When we expect students to report to school/classes on time, we need to model this we in our daily work; when we ask students to treat each other with respect, critical that we are positive role models; when we expect students to dress appropriately, so should we as professionals; and when we ask students to do their best, we must also collectively & individually do our best. Here's a Hawaiian proverb that reflects my philosophy as a member of the Kapaa High ohana..... Ahuwale ka po`okela I kau hana la ha`i. It is through the way you serve others that your greatness will be felt.
Hawaii State Department of Education: Below are three recent articles that provide updates on Hawaii's Department of Education progress and it's alignment with the national efforts. As you read excerpts from President Obama's State of the Union speech, Hawaii's Strategic Plan 2011-2018, and the Hawaii's Race to the Top reform efforts....please take stock/proud of your good work as Kapaa High's focus are becoming nicely aligned and we are making good progress! Examples of our efforts are thru Smaller Learning Community focus, meeting Board of Education Graduation Policy 4540 per our work for a new bell schedule, using formative assessments such as DSI; and building our efforts in using data per standards based student learning. Our Academic/Financial plan clearly defines these goals and perhaps more importantly, shows our proactive planning and going after key resources in making our vision a reality.
- Transforming Hawaii's Public Schools website ( You may sign up for e-newsletters and updates! ) http://hawaiidoereform.org/ JANUARY 2011 Transforming Hawaii's Public Schools e-newsletter http://hawaiidoereform.org/news I n this issue: Conversation with the Superintendent about education reform efforts; Race to the Top budget and January 2011 status update; Online Hawaii State Assessment Testing; 2011-2018 Strategic Plan; HMSA Teen Video Contest P resident Obama's State of the Union: Education Excerpts http://www.ed.gov/blog/2011/01/state-of-the-union-education-excerpts/
GLO Awards: Students who have met the GLO expectations can again redeem their coupons on Monday, Jan 31st in the cafeteria during lunch. Please continue to congratulate these students for their good work and special kudos to those staff members who came out to help.
2011 Kauai District Science Fair: Please help support our students as well as the other district middle & high school finalists at the Kauai District Science Fair on Friday, Feb. 18th @Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. The display viewing will be open to the public until 6:00 p.m. with the student recognition and awards ceremony following shortly.
Common Core State Standards: Beth Pemberton is finalizing the coordination for those teachers/staff members to attend the initial Common Core training for secondary school levels. Session will be held on March 3rd at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall.
Office Changes: Effective February 1st, Beth Pemberton's office will be located in the Student Center to allow her to also spend more time on the Smaller Learning reform efforts. Our new PCNC Nancy Boreliz will be taking over Beth's office in the Admin Bldg.
That's it and have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Key Club Fundraiser - Advisor, V. Saiki
Happy Holidays all!
Key Club is will be taking 8 students to the State Convention held on Oahu in February and need to fundraise about $4,000. We are selling Fundraiser Burritos for $8. Pick up is from now till December 20th at VERDEs in Kapaa Shopping Center next to Big Save.
If you have ever dined at Verdes, you know their burritos are huge and the owners are nice enough to work out a deal with us to make them affordable to you as well as beneficial to Key Club!
Its a large warm flour tortilla stuffed with beans (pinto), rice, cheese and your choice of their Verde Chile Braised Short Rib, or Al Pastor Chicken. Sorry, sold as is no substitutions, but we can opt out the cheese for dairy-free people.
and remember its only $8, if your a family of four thats a dine-out menu price of $32, including chips n salsa!!!! You can also get this burrito for take-out as well!!!
Email me and let me know how many tickets you would like, pick up is on your own, however if enough of you want a nice warm burrito for lunch, buy a ticket and we can organize a day next week that I can pick it up for everyone (delivery charge on me!)
Thanks for all your support!
Key Club is will be taking 8 students to the State Convention held on Oahu in February and need to fundraise about $4,000. We are selling Fundraiser Burritos for $8. Pick up is from now till December 20th at VERDEs in Kapaa Shopping Center next to Big Save.
If you have ever dined at Verdes, you know their burritos are huge and the owners are nice enough to work out a deal with us to make them affordable to you as well as beneficial to Key Club!
Its a large warm flour tortilla stuffed with beans (pinto), rice, cheese and your choice of their Verde Chile Braised Short Rib, or Al Pastor Chicken. Sorry, sold as is no substitutions, but we can opt out the cheese for dairy-free people.
and remember its only $8, if your a family of four thats a dine-out menu price of $32, including chips n salsa!!!! You can also get this burrito for take-out as well!!!
Email me and let me know how many tickets you would like, pick up is on your own, however if enough of you want a nice warm burrito for lunch, buy a ticket and we can organize a day next week that I can pick it up for everyone (delivery charge on me!)
Thanks for all your support!
Weekly Principal's Address 12-13-2010
This past week a revised "bell schedule" was shared for consideration. Proposed bell schedule brings together the many good ideas and honors the many years of hard work of our staff. Department heads are tasked to meet with their teachers to review and submit recommendations. All feedback will be seriously considered thru a transparent on-going communication process.
The creation of a new and better "bell schedule" is in our hands. As educators, we can no longer expect our students learn within an antiquated schedule that limits students' learning opportunities. We need to work together to create that sustainable schedule that provides more opportunities so that every student is truly "college and career" 21st century prepared. We can no longer spend precious time and energy pointing out the negatives as it must be balanced with constructive discussions and recommendations. Hawaii's Department of Education expectations are very clear....per our Department's Strategic plan, Race to the Top Grant reform commitment, and Board of Education Graduation Policy 4540.....students need more opportunities than our current 6 periods or 24 credits.
We all have important work to do...we will continue to face challenges...and we can't let them become excuses. I am confident that together we will be courageous in making our actions speak loudly in moving forward......our students deserve nothing less!
Community Presentation: On Monday, Dec. 13th, we will be sharing Kapaa High's SY 2011-12 Academic/Financial Plans with the our School Community Council and PTSA. You are welcome to attend and attached is the mtg information.
Faculty & Staff Meeting: A faculty and support staff meeting will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 15th @2:00 p.m. in the library. Agenda to follow shortly.
Leadership Meeting: I will be away from the office on:
Monday Dec. 13th 7 - 8:30 a.m. attending East Complex Principals' mtg;
Tuesday, Dec. 14th from 8 - 4:00 p.m. attending the Kauai Complex Area Leadership mtg. (Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison will be in charge).
Other Reminders:
Thursday, December 16th - Last "full" day of Instruction before winter break;
Friday, December 17th - Furlough Day;
Monday, January 3rd - Teachers' workday (no students); and
Tuesday, January 4th - Planning & collaboration Day for East Complex Schools (No Students).
As 2010 comes to an end and a new year quickly approaching.....take time to reflect for we have much to be appreciative and proud of! 2011 looks like it's going to be an even brighter year! Have a great week and remind our students to be safe!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
The creation of a new and better "bell schedule" is in our hands. As educators, we can no longer expect our students learn within an antiquated schedule that limits students' learning opportunities. We need to work together to create that sustainable schedule that provides more opportunities so that every student is truly "college and career" 21st century prepared. We can no longer spend precious time and energy pointing out the negatives as it must be balanced with constructive discussions and recommendations. Hawaii's Department of Education expectations are very clear....per our Department's Strategic plan, Race to the Top Grant reform commitment, and Board of Education Graduation Policy 4540.....students need more opportunities than our current 6 periods or 24 credits.
We all have important work to do...we will continue to face challenges...and we can't let them become excuses. I am confident that together we will be courageous in making our actions speak loudly in moving forward......our students deserve nothing less!
Community Presentation: On Monday, Dec. 13th, we will be sharing Kapaa High's SY 2011-12 Academic/Financial Plans with the our School Community Council and PTSA. You are welcome to attend and attached is the mtg information.
Faculty & Staff Meeting: A faculty and support staff meeting will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 15th @2:00 p.m. in the library. Agenda to follow shortly.
Leadership Meeting: I will be away from the office on:
Monday Dec. 13th 7 - 8:30 a.m. attending East Complex Principals' mtg;
Tuesday, Dec. 14th from 8 - 4:00 p.m. attending the Kauai Complex Area Leadership mtg. (Diane Ayre and Todd Harrison will be in charge).
Other Reminders:
Thursday, December 16th - Last "full" day of Instruction before winter break;
Friday, December 17th - Furlough Day;
Monday, January 3rd - Teachers' workday (no students); and
Tuesday, January 4th - Planning & collaboration Day for East Complex Schools (No Students).
As 2010 comes to an end and a new year quickly approaching.....take time to reflect for we have much to be appreciative and proud of! 2011 looks like it's going to be an even brighter year! Have a great week and remind our students to be safe!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Weekly Principal's Address Monday November 29
Welcome back and hope everyone had a restful and relaxing Thanksgiving break!
Congratulations to Carol Shikada as effective Wednesday, December 1st., she will be starting in her new role as Kauai Complex Area Academic Officer. Carol's vast experience ranges from a classroom Teacher, Vice-principal, Principal, School Renewal Specialist, and currently the Director for Student Support Branch within OCISS. Kauai schools are very fortunate to have someone of such experience and talent return home.
Over the next two weeks, students will be taking the Hawaii State Assessment portion for the Language Arts/Reading and Science. With the immediate feedback as to how our students are progressing, will be having content area teachers visit our data room to review students' results and strategize re-teaching focus areas.
Administration will be continuing with classroom visitations this week. Please note that we are monitoring "bell-to-bell" instruction and also listening for higher level questioning where students are challenged to think, respond, and produce work of such quality.
Thank you for dedicated efforts in helping Kapaa High School is second to none in providing "all" students with quality education.
Academic/Financial plans: Attached are the draft for SY 2011-12 and key talking points visual. As shared, please review and provide any feedback thru your department chair. Appreciate feedback to date from a couple of our department chairs. Kapaa High's Ac/Fin plan will also go thru a "peer review" by the Complex Area office this Friday from 8 - 12:00 p.m.
Smaller Learning Community (Laulima): Attached are the responses to the questions received from the November 17th faculty meeting. Should you have further questions, feel free to share them through your Dept. Chair and will respond as soon as possible.
Common Core Standards: Asked by several teachers to resend the information on the "crosswalks" between the Common Core State Standards and the Hawaii Content & Performance Standards (HCPS III). Crosswalk information can be found at this website http://standardstoolkit.k12.hi.us/index.html and click on DOCUMENT LIBRARY. I was able to verify with both Educational Math Specialist Dewey Gottlieb and Educational Language Arts Specialist, Dr. Petra Schatz that the Office of Curriculum Instruction and Student Support (OCISS) will be conducting professional development beginning second semester and into next school year.
Principals & Vice-Principals Mtgs: Effective January 2011, Kauai Complex Area principals' mtg will be move to the fourth Tuesday of the month January 25th and vice-principals' mtgs will be held on the fourth Thursday January 27th. Reason is to avoid conflicts with the State level mtg changes for the Personnel Regional Officers, and District Educational (SPED & SBBH) Specialists.
That's it and have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
"Wisdom is knowing the right path to take....integrity is taking it." M. H. McKee
Congratulations to Carol Shikada as effective Wednesday, December 1st., she will be starting in her new role as Kauai Complex Area Academic Officer. Carol's vast experience ranges from a classroom Teacher, Vice-principal, Principal, School Renewal Specialist, and currently the Director for Student Support Branch within OCISS. Kauai schools are very fortunate to have someone of such experience and talent return home.
Over the next two weeks, students will be taking the Hawaii State Assessment portion for the Language Arts/Reading and Science. With the immediate feedback as to how our students are progressing, will be having content area teachers visit our data room to review students' results and strategize re-teaching focus areas.
Administration will be continuing with classroom visitations this week. Please note that we are monitoring "bell-to-bell" instruction and also listening for higher level questioning where students are challenged to think, respond, and produce work of such quality.
Thank you for dedicated efforts in helping Kapaa High School is second to none in providing "all" students with quality education.
Academic/Financial plans: Attached are the draft for SY 2011-12 and key talking points visual. As shared, please review and provide any feedback thru your department chair. Appreciate feedback to date from a couple of our department chairs. Kapaa High's Ac/Fin plan will also go thru a "peer review" by the Complex Area office this Friday from 8 - 12:00 p.m.
Smaller Learning Community (Laulima): Attached are the responses to the questions received from the November 17th faculty meeting. Should you have further questions, feel free to share them through your Dept. Chair and will respond as soon as possible.
Common Core Standards: Asked by several teachers to resend the information on the "crosswalks" between the Common Core State Standards and the Hawaii Content & Performance Standards (HCPS III). Crosswalk information can be found at this website http://standardstoolkit.k12.hi.us/index.html and click on DOCUMENT LIBRARY. I was able to verify with both Educational Math Specialist Dewey Gottlieb and Educational Language Arts Specialist, Dr. Petra Schatz that the Office of Curriculum Instruction and Student Support (OCISS) will be conducting professional development beginning second semester and into next school year.
Principals & Vice-Principals Mtgs: Effective January 2011, Kauai Complex Area principals' mtg will be move to the fourth Tuesday of the month January 25th and vice-principals' mtgs will be held on the fourth Thursday January 27th. Reason is to avoid conflicts with the State level mtg changes for the Personnel Regional Officers, and District Educational (SPED & SBBH) Specialists.
That's it and have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
Principal
Kapaa High School
4695 Mailihuna Road
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
PH: (808) 821- 4401 ext. 102
FAX: (808) 821- 4420
daniel_hamada@notes.k12.hi.us
"Wisdom is knowing the right path to take....integrity is taking it." M. H. McKee
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