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Wednesday, May 3, 2000

Punahou apologizes,
takes action in
Iolani incident

The school's president is
'deeply disturbed' by
the students' actions

By Dave Reardon
Star-Bulletin

A Punahou School official made the first public announcement yesterday regarding an incident April 23 in which 12 student-athletes allegedly vandalized Iolani School's athletic facilities.

The following statement is from Punahou President Jim Scott:

"We at Punahou are deeply disturbed by the destructive actions of a number of our students. We are dismayed by the malicious damage at Iolani School as well as by the unfortunate negative reflection their actions have on the rest of our student body and our institution. Disciplinary action has been taken.

"I have extended a heartfelt apology to (Iolani headmaster) Val Iwashita on behalf of our school community. He and I have pledged to work together to find constructive ways to foster competitive rivalries that are characterized by fun and respect and heal the relationship between our two schools."

Punahou Assistant Director of Development Laurel Husain said the school will not elaborate on the disciplinary action.

But unattributed reports indicate two state champions in tennis and one in track and field have been suspended. The three, all seniors, will not be allowed to compete in state championships this month, and will not be allowed to participate in graduation activities (they will, however, receive their diplomas).

Also, there has reportedly been discussions involving restitution and apologies from those involved.

Iwashita, who was hosting a school function, did not return the Star-Bulletin's call.

Punahou and Iolani play each other Friday night in girls' basketball for the ILH's second berth in the state tournament. The losing team goes into a mini-tournament for the league's third spot. Friday's game is 7 p.m. at Mid-Pacific Institute.

GARDEN ISLE SHOWDOWN: The Kauai and Kapaa baseball teams meet today in a game that could determine the Kauai Interscholastic Federation's state tournament representative. Kapaa is the first-round champ. Kauai leads the second-round by one game If Kauai wins, there will be a playoff for the overall title. If Kapaa wins, the playoff is for the second-round title.