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Posts Tagged "high school"

Alaska Mission Trip team reflects on an unforgettable experience

April 05, 2024
By KCS Staff

On Missions Emphasis Day, sandwiched between speakers focused on local and global missions, our high school mission trip team shared about their recent experience in Delta Junction, Alaska. From March 7-16, twenty-eight high school students and six chaperones, working with Pastors Caleb and Shayna Bialik of Summit Church, served in various capacities in a small town outside of Fairbanks. While the majority of their time was spent leading a weeklong Vacation Bible School (VBS), the team also led Sunday worship for two local churches and partnered with YoungLives to prepare meals and write cards for teen moms & dads.

Tytus Ahn '26, Paige Hamada '25, and Skye Fowler '24 spoke on behalf of the team, sharing highlights and takeaways from this opportunity to serve in the 49th state. All three mentioned relationship building as an impactful part of the trip. VBS provided ample time for students to connect with the fifty children who participated in the all-day activities. Students were stretched in their faith as they learned to share the gospel message and answer questions about God. Tearful goodbyes, hugs, and words of gratitude marked the last day of VBS, evidence of the meaningful experience for both our students and the children they interacted with. Skye reflected in awe of the team being "able to love people so much and so deeply," realizing the depth of God's love for us, which overflows to share with others through words and actions.

Despite the logistical and personal challenges the team faced during the trip, they saw God work through every situation. They braved freezing temperatures to enjoy the unique sights that Alaska has to offer, from a visit to the Santa Claus House to a glacier hike and tour of an ice museum. Special thanks to chaperone Miss Villanueva for putting together the highlight video below. Watch to the end to see how supporting the Alaska Mission Trip team has made a tangible difference to the people of Delta Junction!

Junior earns 2nd place in poetry contest, perpetuating a survivor's story

March 22, 2024
By KCS Staff

Through a powerful poem expressing a Holocaust survivor’s struggle with "how to remember," Elisha Kurian '25 earned second place in the high school poetry division of the 25th annual Holocaust Art and Writing Contest. The Rodgers Center for Holocaust Education at Chapman University, the 1939 Society, the Irving and Nancy Chase Endowment for Holocaust Education, the Samueli Foundation, and Yossie & Dana Hollander sponsor this prestigious international competition. This year, the contest drew entries from 220+ registered schools and thousands of students across the U.S. and nine other countries. Elisha's recognition as a finalist is the third for KCS, following Emily Kuwaye’s '19 winning poem in 2018 and Maile Fowler's '22 second-place poem in 2022

The contest prompt challenged participants to identify a specific word, phrase, or sentence from the survivor’s testimony to explore and action to take in response to this call to memory. Utilizing descriptive language and specific details, Elisha's poem, "In Remembrance," captures Selene Bruk wrestling with the conflicting thoughts of forgetting and remembering when she finally returns to Poland. Ultimately, Selene's courageous resolve to remember "a way of life that will never be again" resonated with Elisha on a personal level, inspiring her to use her voice by "simply speaking up." 

A photo of Elisha and Literature Teacher Mrs. Fong (above) was shared during the live stream presentation of the awards ceremony held on March 15 at Chapman University. For her second-place poem, Elisha received a $200 cash prize, while KCS and Mrs. Fong were also awarded $100 each. Bravo, Elisha, on your award-winning piece that answers the call to memory! 

Presenting the 124th winner of the "Thank You... Very Much" award

September 02, 2022
By KCS Staff

The waft of hot soup fumed throughout the kitchen. After I looked over to see you cut fresh green onions and gently put the bowl on the dining room table…I felt so loved and important. You did not express your love through hugs or kisses, but with your cooking. Through these words, Ashley Goo’s gentle spirit shines through her letter of appreciation for her mother.

As the 124th winner of Lex Brodie’s "Thank You...Very Much" award, Ashley received a $100 prize, and her mother was presented with a glass trophy. Additionally, Lex Brodie’s generously donated $250 to the Hawaii Foodbank. Ashley said she selected this non-profit organization because KCS taught her to “show love and care for others,” and as many were “struggling” due to covid, she wanted to “give back to the community.” Lastly, Lex Brodie’s lavishly blessed KCS with a $1000 donation for the Kyle-Lenn-Joey Scholarship Fund, which “provides financial aid to assist students who lack the resources to meet the full cost of an education at KCS.”

Over the past seventeen years, Lex Brodie’s Tire, Brake, & Service Company has recognized students in grades 4-12 from public and private schools throughout Hawaii for their touching letters of gratitude to family members, teachers, coaches, counselors, and doctors. The first award was presented a few days before Alexander “Lex” Brodie’s ninetieth birthday to honor his “dedication to the Board of Education and his legendary service while thanking his customers...very much!”  

Mr. Scott Williams, Vice President of Marketing & Brand Management, said that he is “often driven to tears” after reading the students’ letters. He echoed the sentiment Ashley graciously described in her letter to her mother when he shared how it is “truly amazing how the little things in relationships make the biggest difference!” Congratulations, Ashley, and thank you…very much, Lex Brodie’s!
 

'Ohana Group connects with the Class of 2022

February 05, 2021
By Maile Fowler '22

Throughout these challenging times, comfort can often be found through genuine relationships. For about a year and a half, a handful of married couples, who are a part of an ‘ohana group from Kaimuki Christian Church (KCC), have paired up with the class of 2022. Despite meeting only once over Zoom this school year due to COVID-19, these adults and students met every month last school year before the pandemic. ‘Ohana group members would visit the class during lunch, attend their basketball games, and communicate with the students frequently. The groups plan to restart meeting regularly over the next couple of months. 

These meetings have impacted both the ‘ohana group and the students deeply. The junior class welcomes these new relationships in their lives. “Having the opportunity to talk to the fun aunties and uncles in the church group is such a blessing,” says Kamalani Aipa. Megan Hirasaki explains how the mentors “fill the room with laughter, listen closely to each of us, [and] encourage all of us when we need it most.” Not only have the 'ohana group members mentored the students emotionally, but also spiritually. Kyle Sleeper remarks that the leadership from the men in the group has helped him to “to embrace the Lord.”

Connecting these two groups together has come through fun activities and conversations. While the uncles make an effort to bring joy into the day through competitive games of charades and Pictionary, the aunties elaborate on their self-starter bands, Hillsong Worship College experiences, and their wonderful children. Caz Sands, wife of KCC Lead Pastor Bryan Sands and one of the aunties leading the group, affirms the purpose of building these new relationships, noting that their ‘ohana group “wanted to reach out to students and just encourage, mentor, and be there for them, with no agenda.” She describes her love of spending quality time with the class and deepening their relationships. Caz, as well as the other mentors, hope that the students know that they are cared for and fully supported in their walk through life.

The class of 2022 hopes that they will be able to continue meeting with the ‘ohana group until graduation, and similarly, the ‘ohana group looks forward to the day when they can meet in person with the students once again. This is a unique opportunity not only for mentorship but also for friendship. Both the adults and students are grateful for the memories they created within the group, and they pray that God grants them many more.

KCS tuition rates remain the same for 2021-22

December 04, 2020
By KCS Staff

KCS is pleased to announce that its Board of Elders approved that there will be no tuition increase for the 2021-22 school year. Tuition rates will remain the same as this school year.

Recognizing that this has been a difficult year for many in the KCS 'ohana, school leadership proposed a 0% tuition increase due to possible financial hardships encountered by KCS families. Principal Mrs. Ahn states, "We empathize with the difficult circumstances that our families are facing. We desire to keep KCS affordable so that families who value a Christian education in an intimate, smaller school setting would be able to have the opportunity to attend."

Mrs. Ahn also expresses her appreciation to families who continued to invest in a KCS education and supported the school through the many factors of uncertainty this year has presented.

Reenrollment for current students starts in February. For families interested in applying for the Kyle-Lenn-Joey Scholarship program, our financial aid application will be available through FACTS Grant & Aid, beginning in mid-January.

A memorable graduation for the Class of 2020

May 29, 2020
By KCS Staff

The themes of family and food were woven throughout the graduation ceremony of the Class of 2020, capturing the unique bond that has connected the lives of these eight individuals. Valedictorian Kimberly Yip likened her classmates to dishes of different flavors that now "pair together perfectly" after years of preparation, while also imploring her class to remain resilient and to pursue their passions. Commencement speaker Kainoa Valente utilized a fine dining metaphor to commission the graduates, exhorting them to "make your attitude an altitude," living their lives with an attitude of thanksgiving and looking to God in all they strive to accomplish.

Despite the limitations posed by COVID-19, KCS honored its graduates through an event that reflected what it means to be a part of the KCS 'ohana. Festive décor surrounding the Mahina parking lot added to the celebratory feel of the evening. From their vehicles, those in attendance cheered as the graduates received their diplomas and then watched as parents covered their son or daughter with lei that had been prepared by family, friends, KCC/KCS staff, and students. Later in the evening, the extended KCS 'ohana could join the celebration, watching the ceremony online and congratulating the graduates through chat messages.

For this one year, perhaps pomp and circumstance gave way to a more intimate event, highlighting the importance of family and the family forged from lifelong friendships.

Watch highlights from the Class of 2020 graduation here.

High school students continue to build mentoring relationships – even from a distance

April 17, 2020
By KCS Staff

With the simple but effective strategy of "helping the youth one friendship at a time," the Mālama Mentors program continues to make an impact on both big kids and little kids. This is the second year KCS has been a part of the program, which currently connects KCS high school students with children at Ali'iolani Elementary.

To participate in the program, high school volunteers completed a formal training session in the fall. Earlier this semester, KCS mentors spent one-on-one time reading, playing, and listening to their child. Through this experience, high schoolers have expressed their enjoyment and growth in developing these new relationships, often discovering the blessings, joy, and encouragement that comes from getting to know their energetic mentee.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mālama Mentors shifted its mentoring sessions to an online format on Zoom. They have developed a quarantine mentoring plan, providing resources and guidance for high school mentors. Amid the quarantine, two KCS students share their reflections on continuing to build their mentoring relationships from a distance.

"Whenever we call, I ask [my mentee] about his week, how he feels about quarantine, and I offer to call him whenever he needs it... As a mentor, I have been able to give back to people in need, similarly to the mentors in my life. The large distance between us does not stop our mentorship, but instead, gives us new ways to connect." - Megan Hirasaki '22

"I enjoy being a mentor to my mentee... After not seeing each other for a while, it was nice to reconvene on Zoom to just catch up. Although the personal connection is hindered due to shaky internet connections, these conferences bring joy into our day as we talk about our household pets." - Kimberly Yip '20

LA Dream Center experience makes a profound impact on Mission Trip team

April 03, 2020
By KCS Staff

Amid the backdrop of the coronavirus and the reality that their two-week trip would be cut short, this remarkable team of students chose to embrace every moment of their life-changing experience at the LA Dream Center. Standing as a beacon of light in the middle of some of the most impoverished neighborhoods of Los Angeles, the Dream Center provides training, leadership development, and outreach assignments for short-term mission trip teams, as they assist in the Center's mission "to connect broken people to a community of support."

Trip chaperone Mrs. Fowler witnessed the group of two freshmen and seven sophomores take their faith "to another level." She watched as students approached strangers in Skid Row, a neighborhood in downtown Los Angeles notoriously associated with its homeless population. Guided by a Dream Center outreach leader and inspired by daily devotions and testimony, students allowed themselves to be used by God to speak into the lives of the individuals they met, praying for them with boldness and compassion. When assigned to laborious tasks of cleaning or sorting pounds of groceries, the team worked hard and served eagerly, going above and beyond what was asked.

As sophomore Zachary Kao reflected, "the Dream Center... changes [people]." When distributing hotdogs and water to a homeless man on Skid Row, freshman Micah Branner was moved by the man's gratitude while also convicted of his own fear and preconceived notions. In response to their evangelism training, students practiced sharing their stories, even taking the bold step to reach out to family and friends in obedience to God's call.

The Dream Center experience not only made an indelible personal impact, but the group formed a special bond as they drew close to God together. They are challenged to continue serving in their own homes and communities, shining a much needed light in this difficult and uncertain season.

Team 'Ohana Strong raises funds and awareness for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

March 06, 2020
By KCS Staff

Classmates, friends, and family members are rallying around senior Kala'i Fisher, joining his campaign to provide hope for those battling cancer. In 2018, cancer hit close to the Fisher home, as Kala'i's older sister and KCS alum, Kanoe Fisher, was diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), a rare form of blood cancer. His sister's eye-opening battle with cancer prompted Kala'i to join the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Student of the Year series, a philanthropic leadership development program which made its debut in Hawaii last year. In 2019, thanks to the support of family, friends, and local businesses, Kala'i raised $36,000 for the cause.

As Kala'i has seen the impact of pivotal research and the financial resources provided by LLS, he continues to be passionate about helping cancer patients and spreading awareness. This year, he is a Student of the Year candidate, leading his own 27-member team, 'Ohana Strong. The team, comprised of a number of KCS high school students, also includes several former KCS students as well as team members from Oregon and Kaua'i. Kala'i has embraced his leadership role as an "awesome opportunity" to spread awareness. Moreover, his drive and commitment has inspired his peers, as they are excited to be a part of a campaign of this scale. Junior Jarin Nakada says that he joined the Student of the Year team because he was drawn to the cause and the opportunity "to get out of [his] comfort zone."

In preparation for the team's 7-week campaign that runs from now until April 18, team members have met with LLS staff throughout the year, planning, brainstorming, and strategizing ways to bring awareness to blood cancers and reaching their goal of raising $40,000 for LLS. As students approach friends, family, and businesses with their appeal, they have learned not to be afraid to ask and to ask multiple times. Senior Taylor Lei San Juan is enjoying the professionalism and encouragement of the Student of the Year experience. She reflects that she is learning to “be more confident in speaking to new people outside of [her] community.”  

Team ‘Ohana Strong has already planned a Garage Sale on March 28 and a California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser on April 8. They will also be partnering with local businesses, including Moena Café, Honey Glazed Hams of Hawaii, and The Blessed Life. The team's work and support for one another have already proved just how strong the value of ‘ohana runs here at KCS and within our local community. 

Two high school students recognized for their "Inspired in Hawaii" essays

February 21, 2020
By KCS Staff

Congratulations to Valor Ahn '21 and Cody Tomita '22! Their essays were finalists in the 10th annual Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation “Inspired in Hawaii” Essay, Poster, Digital Media Poster and Video Contest. Valor, Cody, and high school literature teacher, Mrs. Fong, were recognized during an awards program on Wednesday evening.

The contest encourages students to “dream big and make Hawaii a better place” by identifying a significant problem in our islands and proposing a creative solution. In his 3rd place essay, "Hawaii's Doctor Shortage," Valor discusses the implications of the shortage of physicians on the island of Hawaii and suggests a partnership between the County and local hospitals in order to attract and retain doctors. Cody's 2nd place essay, "A Liquid Solution," proposes utilizing an innovative "liquid speed bump" developed in Spain to combat the growing number of traffic fatalities occurring each year. Bravo to Valor and Cody for their well-researched work and effectively communicating their ideas!