HCAP WEEKLY April 22, 2024

High Schooler Celebrates 180-Day Milestone of Employment

Kalae reached out to the Windward District Service Center for assistance with employment services so she could start earning a steady income. Community Service Specialist (CSS), Sheena Paaoao, introduced HCAP’s Nā Lima Hana Employment Core Services (ECS) program to Kalae and quickly got her started on the job readiness training program. Once her resume and interview skills were refined, Kalae soon received several leads and landed a job at Jamba Juice Hawaii. Through the program’s employment monitoring and job coaching, Kalae quickly reached all employment milestones and earned $100 in Target gift cards for her excellence. Her ability to balance multiple responsibilities while maintaining a positive attitude and strong work ethic is truly commendable.

Kalae’s achievement of completing 180 days of employment is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and outstanding. As a high school senior juggling both academic pursuits and a commitment to earning income for self sustainability, Kalae has demonstrated exceptional time management skills, determination, and a passion for excellence that sets her apart.

Looking into future aspirations, Kalae has her sights set on furthering her education at the University of Hawaii, Hilo after she graduates from high school in May this year. Her ambitious pursuit of higher education reflects her commitment to personal and academic growth, as well as her determination to achieve her goals. As she embarks on the next chapter of her journey, there is no doubt that Kalae will continue to make a positive impact and inspire those around her with her unwavering dedication and drive for success.

HCAP staff congratulates Kalae on reaching this significant milestone in her employment journey. Her accomplishments are truly deserving of celebration, and the staff looks forward to witnessing her continued success and growth in the future.

Click Here to learn more about Nā Lima Hana Employment Core Services.

Hā Initiative Learns About Bioluminescence

Last week at the Windward Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program, the students had a lesson about bioluminescence. What is bioluminescence? In the lesson, students learned that a chemical reaction occurs when a compound called luciferin comes into contact with oxygen and luciferase, an enzyme that creates the natural glow called bioluminescence.

For the lesson, the students participated in an activity where they simulated the chemical reactions through making their own bioluminescent organisms. Pictured above, student Kamananui shows how she created her bioluminescent comb jellies along with Hilinai and Zinnia, who created bioluminescent fungi. What a great week of learning.

Click Here to learn more about the Hā Initiative.

Head Start Classrooms Engage Keiki Through Dr. Seuss Stories

HCAP Head Start & Early Head Start classrooms recently celebrated the birthday of renowned children’s book author, Dr. Seuss. Across the island, Head Start keiki, staff, and parents engaged in various classroom enrichment activities inspired by Dr. Seuss’ stories.

The keiki at Ka’ala Pre-Plus designed and created their own hats based on The Cat in The Hat. At the Palolo I classroom, a reenactment of The Lorax was performed for the students with the help of a parent volunteer and their teachers.

The keiki were amused to witness the environmental message of the Lorax trying his best to save the Truffula trees, sparking immense enthusiasm from the students. They then engaged their own creativity in crafting a Lorax to share the story with their parents and the importance of protecting and taking care of nature.

Click Here to learn more about Head Start & Early Head Start.