Hawai'i Preparatory Academy's Podcast

Get an inside look at the college counseling experience at HPA with co-directors Andrew Kelsey and Cindy Montgomery.  In this podcast episode, they share a thorough overview of the program — from testing opportunities and individualized support to their approach in guiding students through the college process. They also offer valuable advice for students and families navigating the journey ahead.

How do we support children and adults through grief? In this episode, Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy’s Lower School team creates space for an honest and compassionate conversation about bereavement—exploring how loss shows up across the lifespan and how families and communities can navigate grief together. Lower School Principal Dora Kwong guides a thoughtful discussion with a panel of experienced pr...

In this episode, our Admission team is joined by parents, and alumni to share their personal experiences at Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy. From the perspective of international families to the lasting impact of academics, athletics, and place-based learning, this conversation highlights what makes the HPA journey so meaningful. Students reflect on why they chose HPA, how the school has prepared them...

In this episode, we’re excited to introduce the newest member of the Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy ʻohana—our lead Pre-K teacher, Monica Hurley. Born and raised in Waimea, Monica brings deep roots in our island community and decades of experience working with young children. Monica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Chaminade University and is completing her Master’s in Teac...

How does innovation come to life at Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy? In this episode, HPA’s admission team takes listeners inside the Energy Lab, a state-of-the-art facility where sustainability, science, engineering, and real-world problem solving intersect. Director of Admission Tiare Police, along with Janet Kalaniopio and Tayler Wang, sit down with Dr. Bill Wiecking, Director of the Energy Lab, an...

What makes the middle school years such a powerful time for growth? In this episode of the Hawaiʻi Preparatory Podcast, we take a closer look at Middle School at HPA and how this stage is intentionally designed to support curiosity, confidence, and connection. Hosted by Middle School Principal Michael Cservenak and Assistant Director of Admission Stephanie Stewart, the episode explores HPA’s missi...

What does a joyful, supportive start to school look like? In this episode of the Hawaiʻi Preparatory Podcast, we focus on Kindergarten at HPA and the foundation it provides for lifelong learning. Hosted by Assistant Director of Admission Stephanie Stewart, the conversation features Lower School Principal, Dora Kwong and Kindergarten Teacher, Dee Walker as they share HPA’s mission, values, and appr...

In this episode, HPA’s admission team explores the school’s signature academic programs, including Marine Studies and the Energy Lab, and how HPA’s people, programs, and place create extraordinary learning opportunities. Hear from faculty experts and current students as they share how hands-on experiences — from sea turtle research and SCUBA diving to cutting-edge collaborations with organizations...

What does learning look like at Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy — and how does it prepare students for college and beyond? In this episode, HPA’s admission team hosts a thoughtful conversation with academic leaders, college counselors, current students, and alumni to explore the spirit of learning that defines the HPA experience. From innovative coursework and senior capstone projects to personalized...