Academy Frequently Asked Questions

Why are we doing Academies at Kapa’a High School?

Academies allow us to assign students to smaller groups of teachers so that teachers can get to know your child better. We believe students are ready to start focusing their talents and interests and to consider how those might play out in your education and work life after high school. Academies give students a head start. We are confident that the Academy experience will help students feel more connected to their peers, teachers and school and that they will do better in school as a result. Schools with Academies report better attendance, higher grades, and higher graduation and college going rates.

What if my child doesn’t like either of the Academies or any of the Strands?

We tried to create Academies based on our most popular programs but we also have some new programs that reflect the future of Kaua’i’s economy. We couldn’t create too many programs or we wouldn’t have enough students in each one. We tried to make sure that all sorts of students with all sorts of interests could find something they were at least a little bit interested in. If they really can’t find anything, we hope they will try something different. Who knows? They might enjoy something new!

How will my child be placed in an academy?

The curriculum coordinator and counselor will introduce students to the two Academies. Students will take career interest surveys and have the opportunity to visit academy/strand classes. Students will then rank their Academy/strand preferences, develop a compelling written argument for their choices and be placed accordingly. Every effort will be made to balance the two academies with regards to the overall number of students, gender, ethnic background and academic ability. Students will be placed in Academies first and then complete the registration forms for their particular academy.

Can students switch academies? Can they switch strands?

We hope to do an excellent job of preparing students to make a solid Academy/Strand choice. Once you are placed, there will be no switching of academies for 2012-2013. If there is room in a different strand within their academy at the time of request, a strand change may be possible. Students can switch academy for 11^th grade provided there is space in the academy and they can still complete the course sequencing for the new strand in the other academy.

What if my child doesn’t know what he/she wants be or do after high school?

We know many students will end up focusing on or working in different areas after high school. Academies aren’t like majors. They are just a series of 3-4 classes in one area over the next three years in an area that interests them now so that their classes are more interesting and they can learn about possible jobs in that area. All students will still take all the regular English, Math, Science, Social Studies classes and electives – their classes will just integrate some of the Academy themes so it’s hopefully more interesting. Students will be prepared to study & pursue whatever you like after high school.

Who can help my child make a good choice?

Ms. Christensen, Ms. Pemberton, your child’s teachers and/or any other adult they feel comfortable talking to on campus will be able to help. The Academy coordinators are also good people to talk to (Mr. Costa, Ms. Quinones, Ms. Schwarze, Ms Kitamura). Try to discourage your child from making their decision based on what their friends are taking unless they have similar interests.

Can my child still take honors and AP courses? What about foreign language, arts classes and JROTC?

Yes, honors classes will be offered in and/or for both academies. Students from both academies can sign up for elective classes such as foreign language, arts, music, JROTC, physical education, etc. For some classes, students in specific strands will have preference.

How can I learn more about Academies at Kapa’a High School?

You can learn more by visiting the Kapa’a High SLC Blog via our main web site or at and/or by contacting the Grade 9 counselor Ms. Terri Christensen at ext. 133 or our SLC Coordinator, Lisa Mireles at ext 232. You can also attend a parent meeting on January 9, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. in our cafeteria!