A can-do attitude at the Palama school has propelled its Title 1 program to national prominence and its students to new heights of academic achievement.
U.S. Secretary of Education
Richard W. Riley
Today, Title 1 teacher Faith Shido, Principal Charlotte White and Honolulu District Superintendent John Sosa were in New Orleans among representatives from 56 schools being honored for raising achievement among students living in poverty.
"They've created a really loving, nurturing atmosphere there," said Deputy District Superintendent Laurie Wong.
"Because it's a great challenge, the teachers, the administration and the community have come together."
Among the innovations that school officials and community members have tackled are construction of a hula mound for May Day celebrations, the launch of a make-believe space shuttle to commemorate the Challenger disaster, and a complete renovation of the Kaiulani library in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Metropolitan Honolulu.
They've also improved the academic performance of the Title 1 students, who exceeded district minimum standards the past three years.
Title 1 provides federal funds to schools in poor areas to improve teaching and learning.
Title 1 schools try to increase parent involvement, raise academic standards, keep schools open beyond regular hours to provide extra tutoring, and reduce the amount of time children are "pulled out" of the classroom, said U.S. Department of Education spokeswoman Melinda Kitchell Malico.
"These schools exemplify the kind of partnership it takes to help every child get on the right track to solid learning," said U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley.