Enrollment into a Kula Kaiapuni<\/strong> (Hawaiian Language Immersion program) is an open and welcoming process that can happen at any time throughout the school year. Families are encouraged to seek placement for their children whenever they feel ready to begin their journey in a Hawaiian medium learning environment. Because these programs are vital to language revitalization, the Department works to accommodate new students as they arrive in our communities. Whether you are moving to a new district or simply deciding to transition your child into immersion, there is no single deadline for standard entry. Our schools are committed to supporting your child’s education and cultural growth whenever you choose to join the Kaiapuni \u2018ohana.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Families specifically planning to enroll their child in a Kula Kaiapuni<\/strong> for the following school year, such as for SY 2026-27, should participate in the Kaiapuni Priority Placement Request<\/strong> (KPPR) process. OHE facilitates this structured window each year to help families identify available spots in their preferred elementary programs well in advance. By participating in this process, families provide the Department with the necessary data to manage classroom capacity and allocate resources effectively. This forward-planning ensures that schools can prepare for incoming cohorts and maintain the high standard of immersion education expected by our community. Following this timeline is the most effective way to help the school prepare for your child\u2019s arrival and support a smooth transition for the start of the new academic year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Commonly Asked Questions<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n What is the Kaiapuni Program? <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Kaiapuni Educational Program (Ka Papahana Kaiapuni) provides students with Hawaiian bicultural and bilingual education. The program delivers instruction exclusively through the medium of the Hawaiian language until Grade 5, when English is formally introduced. It aims to connect future generations with Hawaiian ways of knowing and being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do we have to be of Native Hawaiian ancestry to enroll?<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n No. Ka Papahana Kaiapuni is a program within the Hawai\u02bbi public school system. It is open to all students, regardless of ancestry, who wish to learn in a Hawaiian language immersion environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What if no one in our home speaks Hawaiian? Can my child still succeed?<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes, many students come from homes where English is the primary language. However, success in a Kula Kaiapuni requires a high level of family commitment. You are expected to support your child\u2019s language journey by seeking resources to learn the language yourself, using the language at home as you learn, and participating in program activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Is a Kula Kaiapuni different from an English-medium DOE school in terms of what they learn?<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Students in Kula Kaiapuni learn the same subjects or content-areas (math, science, social studies, etc.) as students in English-medium schools. The difference is the medium of instruction<\/strong> ma le perspective in which the subject is approached and covered<\/strong>. The curriculum is delivered entirely in \u02bb\u014dlelo Hawai\u02bbi and is rooted in Hawaiian traditional knowledge and values.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do I need to apply for a “Geographic Exception” (GE) to attend a Kula Kaiapuni outside my district?<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n No. Per Hawai\u02bbi Revised Statutes (HRS) \u00a7302A-1143, Kula Kaiapuni students are not restricted by their home school district. You do not need an approved GE to apply to or attend a Kula Kaiapuni. You simply submit the Kaiapuni Priority Placement Request Form<\/a> for your Kula Kaiapuni of choice. However, priority placement is given to those who reside within the set boundaries of the Kula Kaiapuni.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nN\u0101 N\u012bnau Ma\u02bbamau<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Ka Papahana Kaiapuni Basics & Eligibility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Kaiapuni Priority Placement Request Process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n