Introducing the Bill and Annie Yamada Scholarship Fund
What makes KCS such a special school are the people who love this place and wholeheartedly believe in our mission. Bill and Annie Yamada, long-time members of Kaimuki Christian Church, are two such people who have supported KCS for decades. As shared last fall during the Flagpole Dedication Ceremony, Bill was instrumental in expanding KCS to a middle school in 1995-96. In February, Bill and Annie were discussing how to steward their funds when God led them to donate over half a million dollars to KCS to start a scholarship fund. Mrs. Ahn was floored by the generosity and heart behind this gift of $566,715.43, which allows KCS to start its first perpetual scholarship fund! With this amount invested, a maximum of 5% will be withdrawn each year to award in scholarships.
Parents of K-12th grade students are eligible to apply for the Bill and Annie Yamada Scholarship. Applicants should demonstrate financial need and hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent for elementary). A completed application via FACTS Grant & Aid must also be submitted. Our first round of scholarships will be awarded this year to families who have submitted financial aid applications. The FACTS Grant & Aid application opens again in January 2024 for the 2024-25 school year. The Yamadas hope this gift enables generations of students to attend KCS while inspiring others to give generously as well!
A Walkathon Week to Remember
Another challenge, another goal met! The KCS 'ohana rose to the occasion once again, working together to raise approximately $45,000 for the Kyle-Lenn-Joey Scholarship Fund. Perhaps more impressive than this record-setting fundraising amount for the Walkathon is how students, staff, and families came together to remember the lives of Kyle Schumacher, Lenn Kawamura, and Joey Yoshikawa. This year's revamped "Walkathon Week" (April 26-30) proved to be a wonderful success!
From an impromptu promo video by teachers to a class-produced skit by the 8A Drama class, students and staff found unique ways to share the message and meaning of this 40-year tradition. Even students in Ms. Gene's Aloha class could share the importance of the Walkathon. When asked why KCS participates in the Walkathon, P2/3 student Jacob Chen replied, "Because we want to raise money and let other people come in." How exciting to watch a new generation of students have the Kyle-Lenn-Joey Walkathon become a part of their KCS experience!
Bolstered by the festive atmosphere of balloons and encouraging signs, preschool to high school students walked or ran various routes around the block or on-campus. They showed remarkable energy as they enjoyed this time outdoors with classmates during their P.E. or study hall periods. This matched the enthusiasm of donors, as gifts and messages of support poured in through our online giving site. We are overwhelmed by the incredible spirit of the KCS 'ohana!