HCAP WEEKLY June 30, 2025

Head Start Keiki Explore the World of Insects

The Head Start keiki at Waipahu Pre-Plus were all abuzz with excitement as they delved into an Insect Study, pitting the Monarch Butterfly against the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle! These tiny entomologists chatted about the insects’ homes, growth, meals, and whether these critters are friends or foes to us. Adding an artistic flair to their study, the children also engaged in a delightful butterfly art activity, where they painted vibrant butterfly wings with colorful patterns. This creative endeavor not only nurtured their artistic skills but also brought a splash of color to the classroom.

The highlight of the study was the arrival of live Monarch Butterflies that were discovered during a nature walk around the school campus. Watching these graceful creatures fluttering around was awe-inspiring and connected the children to nature in a magical way. With lively chats and cool visual tools, critical thinking and science skills were sharpened in the debate over which bugs are heroes or villains. This hands-on adventure sparked a love for discovery and provided a deeper peek into the wild world of insects!

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Central Client Updates HCAP on Vocational Training Progress and Job Search Efforts

The HCAP Central District Service Center received an update from a client who was referred by Hawaii Medical College. Jazalei first came to HCAP in September of 2024 and participated in the Nā Lima Hana Employment Core Services (ECS) program. She has been actively responsive and kept in contact to update staff on her progress with the Healthcare Administration Billing and Coding (HABC) program at Hawaii Medical College.

Being between the ages of 18-24, Jazalei also qualified for the Ross Stores, Inc. Store-Based Giving Program which aims to help create brighter futures for today’s youth. She received $50 in gift cards to Ross from ECS to help her acquire professional clothing for her job search endeavors.

The Central District Service Center will be following Jazalei’s journey toward obtaining her goals of becoming independent as she continues to be very successful in her HABC classes. Jazalei has been maintaining a 4.0 GPA and keeping up with her coursework.

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STEM Students Learn About Carbon Footprints and Solar Energy

Hā Initiative STEM students explored the science behind carbon emissions, energy use, and the impact of daily choices on the environment.

The Kalihi STEM Exploration Center began their journey by examining how carbon emissions contribute to global warming and discussing how everyday human activities, from transportation to electricity use, releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Students learned how excess carbon emissions contribute to a range of environmental challenges.

To connect these concepts, students were introduced to the concept of a carbon footprint–the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted by an individual or group due to the consumption of fossil fuels. They reflected on their own lifestyles by visiting stations set up across the classroom, each representing a different category of personal impact on the environment: Home, Energy, Transportation, Air Travel, Water, Food, and Waste.

This activity culminated with students expressing their new knowledge and commitments to sustainability through an art project. Each student painted their actual footprint, symbolizing their individual carbon footprint. On their painted footprint, they wrote a personal pledge to use reusable water bottles or choose thrifted clothing. Then, they decorated their footprints with moss, twigs, and other natural items, symbolizing a renewed connection to the planet. These now proudly hang on the classroom walls, serving as daily reminders of their commitment to sustainability.

To wrap up the curriculum, the class focused on renewable energy, specifically, solar power and its importance in Hawai‘i. Students explored the benefits and challenges of solar energy and learned about its potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. As a hands-on project, they engineered their own solar ovens using recycled materials like cardboard and food packaging to create tasty s’mores using only the power of the sun! Through this fun and delicious experiment, students learned about heat transfer, insulation, and the engineering design process, reinforcing the real-world value of clean energy solutions.

HCAP’s STEM teachers are so proud of their creativity, curiosity, and commitment to making a difference one carbon footprint at a time.

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