Foundation for Success

Island Pacific Academy

As parents, we always want the best for our children. When it comes to early-childhood education, what is the best and how is it defined? Is there a difference between daycare and junior kindergarten for children who are 4- and 5-years old? For many the answer is a resounding yes.

Numerous studies have determined that early childhood education lays an important foundation for successful learning. That is why one local independent school has focused on creating an enriched junior-kindergarten program that provides opportunities to begin building language and math literacy and developmentally appropriate experiences for problem solving and applying knowledge and skills.  

Junior kindergarten at Island Pacific Academy (IPA), for students who have turned 4 years old by the beginning of the school year, is a central part of the early childhood program, which IPA regards as continuing through grade two. It is the beginning of a developmental continuum from elementary through grade 12 and readiness for college-level work.

“We are committed to providing each of our students a strong early-learning foundation,” says Dr. Dan White, headmaster of IPA. “That is why we introduce fundamentals like math, science and literature in the  early years and continue building on that foundation thereafter.”  Technology tools appropriate to the students' development and encouragement of creativity through regular classes in fine and performing arts round out the student experience, beginning in junior kindergarten.

But a traditional education is not enough. Recognizing the continued and rapid growth of our world economy, IPA has invested time and resources over the past three years to become an International Baccalaureate World School. To date, only 14 schools nationwide have attained this acclaimed certification for their primary through high school levels. The junior-kindergarten curriculum and student experience benefit from that strong academic program, as well.

“The International Baccalaureate program opens up a world of opportunities for our students, literally,” added White. “Our students are challenged by a rigorous curriculum, and, just as importantly, the program promotes a global outlook and appreciation of other cultures for our young people. That's what makes IPA different.  Intelligence and skill aren't enough; we want our students to care and to become responsible citizens of the world, and the foundation for that begins in junior kindergarten.”

The difference is apparent when you walk through the doors of IPA's Kapolei campus. With student sculptures and artwork decorating the halls, it's obvious that this school has a different approach to early-childhood education and beyond. IPA was founded on the belief that teaching kindness and generosity of spirit are important values to instill along with academic knowledge and skills.  Activities that encourage the social and emotional development of young children instill in them the value of helping others and working cooperatively.  Each year, as an example, the junior kindergarten class holds a trike-a-thon to raise funds for a children's hospital, putting into practice the IPA adage, “Whenever you can, help.”

 

IPA, in Kapolei, enrolls 680 students in grades junior kindergarten through 12. Graduates of IPA are attending colleges and universities across the country and around the world.

For more information, visit ipahawaii.org or call 674-3567 to inquire about a tour to learn more about the Island Pacific Academy difference.