News and Announcements

3/20/26

4th Quarter Guiding Value: This quarter, our school focus is on the value Kūlia i ka nuʻu—to strive for the summit, seeking excellence and quality in all that we do. This mindset embodies the spirit of our students and staff as we work together to finish the school year strong.

4th Quarter Preview: The final quarter of the year is always a busy and exciting time at ʻĪao School! As we head into the home stretch, we want to highlight several key focus areas and upcoming events:

• Behavior Contracts: For our end-of-the-year reward activities—including the 8th Grade Banquet—students are currently on grade-level specific behavior contracts. Participation requires meeting these expectations.

• Academic Milestones: This quarter brings State Testing across all grade levels. We encourage our students to stay focused and do their best.

• Special Events & Transitions: We have a full calendar ahead, including 6th Grade Hōʻike, Spring Showcase, and Transition Activities for students moving to high school or the next grade level.

No School on Prince Kūhiō Day: There will be no school on Thursday, March 26, in observance of Prince Kūhiō Day. 

Eat Chili Rice & Share Your Input:  Each year, we develop an Academic Plan specifically designed to meet the needs of our students. An essential part of this process is hearing from you! We invite all families and community members to join us on Wednesday, March 25, at 5:30 PM in the ʻĪao School Cafeteria for the Spring Community Meeting. This is a great opportunity to learn about our goals, share your thoughts on the plan, and discuss anything else related to ʻĪao School. Chili rice and refreshments will be served. We look forward to seeing you here!

Baldwin Summer School: Please visit this LINK to view the 2026 H.P. Baldwin High School Summer Course Application. Questions may be directed to Mr. Cody Yamamoto by email or phone at: cody.yamamoto@k12.hi.us or (808) 727-3232..

3/9/26

Reminder - Changes to Dismissal Times: This Wednesday, March 11, students will be dismissed at 2:00 PM. This Friday, March 13 (the last day of Quarter 3), students will be dismissed at 1:10 PM. Buses will still operate on these days.

Backpack Buddies: ʻĪao School is proud to partner with the Maui Food Bank "Backpack Buddies" program to provide supplemental weekend food for students. We ensure all items are distributed discreetly. Families can learn more and sign up using this LINK. For questions, contact our PCNC at 808-727-5290 or natalie.capitano@k12.hi.us.

Spring Break & Holidays:

• March 16–20: Spring Break (No School; Main Office remains open)

• March 23: School Resumes

• March 26: Prince Kūhiō Day (No School)

3/2/26

4th Quarter Bus Applications: As a reminder, all school bus applications for both paid and free-qualified student riders must be submitted on a quarterly basis. The Quarter 4 registration window opened today, Monday, March 2, 2026 and will close on Friday, March 27, 2026. All applications submitted after this period will be automatically denied. Due to limited seating, we recommend registering as soon as the application period opens. Applications are reviewed and approved on a first-come, first-served basis. Paper applications can be picked up from the ʻĪao School Main Office or visit https://go.hidoe.us/SchoolBusService to apply. 

4th Quarter UPLINK: UPLINK is a free after-school program available for students. UPLINK continues in Quarter 4, from April 6 to May 22, and registrations are being accepted now. There are a number of enrichment, athletic, and academic activities as well as snacks and homework help from teachers. The UPLINK registration form, along with a list of activities to choose from, can be found at this LINK or in the Main Office. Hard copies may be submitted to the Main Office or you may email a pdf of the completed form to emelita.inosanto@k12.hi.us. 

2/20/26

Automated Calls: To improve student safety, we are launching a new automated attendance alert system starting Monday, February 23rd. If your student is marked absent from homeroom, an automated call will be sent to your primary contact number at approximately 10:00 AM. No action is needed if the absence is planned, but please contact the main office if you believe your student should be on campus. To help us avoid unnecessary alerts, please ensure your student arrives on time or notify the office of any absences by 9:30 AM.

State Cell Phone Policy: In alignment with new HIDOE rules for all middle and intermediate schools, student cell phone use is prohibited during school hours. This statewide mandate reinforces our existing ‘Īao School policy, requiring devices to be turned off and put away from the first bell until the end of the day. We appreciate your support in keeping our classrooms focused and distraction-free.

Student Expression and Safety: Please read this letter regarding the peaceful assembly of students. Questions may be directed to any ʻĪao School administrators.