February 14, 2016 by Imua ʻIolani

February 2016 | Volume 91, Issue V | Honolulu, Hawai‘i A Voice for Students Since 1923

He Makana, Hā‘awi ‘Ia A Gift Bestowed

CoverText The other cover options were lies.indd 1

2/1/16 3:04 PM

Remembering Our Founders ByEve Huddleston ’19

e celebrate Founder’s Day not only to acknowledge King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma, the founders of ‘Iolani School, but also to honor the foundational values upon which our school was established. Even as modernization adds new aspects to the school, ‘Iolani has, throughout its 153 years, maintained the same core values and expectations of excellence from its students. The idea of Founder’s Day began with the celebration of ‘Iolani’s 150th anniversary in 2013. That year, ‘Iolani held separate age-grouped chapel services dedicated to the story of the school’s founding. This chronicle gained so much interest and support from the ‘Iolani community that the school incorporated it into its calendar as a combined K-12 chapel service. As new innovations become traditions, the Founder’s Day celebration continues. Examples include the Mele

Fr. Coon and Mrs. Coon at 1992 May day. // Photo courtesy ‘Iolani School Archives

“He Mele No ‘Iolani” by Jon Nouchi ’93, and “E Ō E ʻIolani Ē!” written by ‘Iolani’s choir director John “Mr. A” Alexander. Mr. Nouchi, a former student of Mr. A and well-known poet and songwriter who has several degrees in Hawaiian, translated the song. The thoughtful Mele captures the essence of the royal couple. “I was struck by how loving and generous the royals were,” said Mr. A. The couple’s legacy and values are instilled in the institutions they created: ‘Iolani School for boys, St. Andrew’s Priory for girls, Queen’s Hospital, and St. Alban’s Chapel. James Pentland ’18 uses the ‘uli ‘uli to dance a hula Through these noho, seated hula, called “He Inoa No Ali’i ‘Iolani.” institutions, they

Shining Light On Education ByKyla Smith ’16

hat began, according to Assistant Head of School Dr. Karen Neitzel, as “a conversation among teachers, locally, that can honor all the educators in Hawaii” is soon to be a reality. On February 13, ‘Iolani School will host the first Ignite Innovation Conference. Featuring keynote speaker Sean Justice, Ph.D. of Columbia University Teacher’s College and presenters from Hawaii and the mainland, the event will cover environmental sustainability and technological innovation in the classroom and global community. The event is already sold out, but Dr. Neitzel hopes that the conference can be held again around the “same time next year.”

FEATURES2 Feb_p2_v1 Eve .indd 1

continue to contribute to the mind, body and spiritual well-being. As part of the annual tradition, lei and this Mele is offered to King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma at Manuaala, their grave site. Each year, we are also honored to have a guest speaker. This year, we welcome Reverend David P. Coon. Father Coon’s long history with ‘Iolani began in 1957 when he was a teacher. He also filled many roles such as basketball coach, college counselor, and Director of Studies. After many dedicated years of service, Father Coon became Headmaster in 1970, a position he held until his retirement in 1992. Father Coon led major movements in ‘Iolani’s history, such as the admittance of girls, and the construction of The Father Bray Athletic Center and Art, Castle, Nangaku, and Ai buildings. We look forward to hearing Father Coon as he shares the changes over the past 60 years, their importance, and the values and beliefs held by the ‘Iolani community. Father Coon recognizes Founder’s Day as a reunion for those who have contributed to this amazing school. We honor King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma who opened the school, but we will also honor those who have contributed to the legacy and character of ‘Iolani. Buildings change, and people move on, but throughout time, the essence of ‘Iolani’s stellar academics, and its commitment to character have not wavered.

FEBRUARY2016 2/2/16 10:08 AM

A Helping Hand For the Houseless ByAmy Nakamura ’17

While in the night program, families in human interaction and privilege. “I are offered shelter and meals week by learned that homelessness shouldn’t be week by various churches and religious a stigma that handicaps people,” said communities around the island as they Tatjana Calimpong-Burke ’16. “They work to afford a permanent home. want to escape poverty, but for some, We hosted our first cohort of families it’s too difficult to do on their own, during the first week in Januand they need assistance. They’re ary. Families stayed in the Date people just like you and me, so I don’t La‘au apartments and ate dinner feel that they should be treated any on the Chapel lanai. “They’re differently.” hard working. These families However, some success with cooperare working poor families. They ation is already being shown.Two of the simply do not make enough families that went through the Family money to live in Hawai‘i,” said Promise program on the Date La‘au Chaplain Simopoulos-Pigato. property will be moving into some of “They haven’t done anything the apartment units as paying tenants. bad or criminal or wrong in their ‘Iolani will participate in hosting lives. They’re just in difficult sit- houseless families four times a year, uations in terms of affording to with its next event scheduled for Feblive here.” Meals were prepared ruary 28th to March 5th. If you would Tia-Maire Yee ’18 converses with one of the children in by members of our community like to become involved with this the Family Promise program. // Photo courtsey Maya Franklin ’16 and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. program, contact Chaplain SimopouStudents from the Religion and los-Pigato at nsimopoulos@iolani.org. become an active participant in solving Social Justice class prepared one of this issue. In 2009, Building Futures the meals and helped to serve the LLC bought the 5.5 acre property on meals to the families every night. Date La‘au with plans to expand our As the parents relaxed, students campus. While these plans are still engaged the children in planned in the initial phases, Chaplain Nicole activities such as painting, playing Simopoulos-Pigato proposed that we tag, and making tie-dye cupcakes. further our Episcopal mission to help Children from the program ranged the poor by providing a temporary in age from 4 months old to 14 years home in the unoccupied apartments. old. These unoccupied apartments are being As families gained opportunities used by Family Promise, a non-profit for affordable homes, students of organization that aims to help houseless the Religion and Social Justice Melissa Febbo ’16 and a child from Familiy Promise paint families save enough money over a few class took away experiences before dinner. // Photo Courtsey Maya Franklin ’16 months to get into affordable housing.

awai‘i has the highest rate of homelessness per capita in the United States, and Building Futures LLC, the for profit company that is owned by ‘Iolani School, has recently

23 Perfect Prefects ByNagem Uiagalelei ’19

n the first day of school, a group of friendly Seniors opening car doors for incoming students and greet them with a smile. You can also spot them on campus giving tours or even speaking during assemblies. They work tirelessly to make possible activities like giveaways and friendly competitions. They are Iolani’s senior prefects, the student exemplars and leaders of the school. Iolani first organized this prestigious group of seniors in the 1959-1960 school year to assist the Headmaster with student policies. Back then, eight seniors comprised the group

FEBRUARY2016 Feb_p6_v7.indd 1

and held positions such as, president of the Senior Class, Student Council president, editor-in-chief of Imua, and editor-in-chief of Ka Mo’olelo O ’Iolani. The remaining four members were chosen by the Headmaster Reverend Burton A. MacLean. Today, 23 seniors are selected as prefects by their classmates. Jessica Lee ‘16 is a current senior prefect and describes the job as “ a bridge between the students and the administration.” The group is student led, which allows them to use teamwork and leadership skills to achieve their goals. The group

completed their first task before school started. They called each new student and faculty member to welcome them to ‘Iolani. The prefects also set up a lunch for students and teachers. This lunch was meant for one student and one teacher who had never met to get to know each other. Throughout the year, the prefects continue to serve as positive role models for Iolani students. We are very lucky to have a great team of seniors to lead our school. Their time and effort makes things happen for us, and we should all be extremely grateful.

NEWS3 2/2/16 7:16 AM

Wrestling with

WE GHT

Feb 4-5_v3.indd 1

3/2/16 9:35 AM

Feb 4-5_v3.indd 2

3/2/16 9:35 AM

uring winter break, the ‘Iolani boys varsity wrestling team placed first at the Officials Wrestling Tournament at Leilehua High School on December 19, 2015. This favored the team as the 2016 HHSAA boys state champions in February. However, as many wrestling championships go, this victory came with weight problems. At a wrestling tournament, participants must declare a certain weight class and be under the weight or else they cannot wrestle in that particular category. At tournaments like Officials and States, wrestlers who do not make their weight class are disqualified from the tournament. In both cases, wrestlers do not help their team. This causes many to cut weight. For example, if a boy says he will be in the 106-pound weight class, he must be 106 pounds or under or else he cannot qualify for that category, even if he is 106.1 pounds. A team can fill more weight classes if they have more people of various weights, raising the likelihood of winning a tournament. However, ‘Iolani has a small team compared to the majority of the state, so it is important that every person make their weight class. At ‘Iolani School, the wrestling coaches use the One Team spirit to remind wrestlers that they fight for each other. Therefore, if a wrestler fails to make a certain weight, they let down the team. Many wrestlers cut weight to fill weight classes for their team or to have a strength advantage over lighter competitors. According to the National Institute of Health, the maximum amount of weight loss is two pounds per week. However according to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), high school and collegiate wrestlers have a rapid weight loss of an average of four to five pounds per week. According to the ACSM, one-quarter to two-thirds of wrestlers use weight loss methods, such as dehydration and fasting, which decreases body water, energy stores, and lean tissue. Losing too much weight, especially by restricting food, can leave wrestlers feeling tired and lethargic, causing them to perform worse than intended. Today, specific gravity testing makes sure that wrestlers are hydrated while a body fat test assesses the maximum pounds a wrestler can lose per week.

However, it does not monitor the methods wrestlers use to lose weight. Some wrestlers procrastinate and stress about losing pounds, causing them to starve themselves and/or do rigorous exercise a couple days before the tournament to lose weight. Wrestlers even do rigorous exercise the day of the tournament when they should be saving their energy for matches. Some wrestlers also intentionally drop weight for hydration testing although it is supposed to assess the person’s natural weight. Dane Yamashiro ’17, a member of the ‘Iolani boys varsity wrestling team, suffered the consequences of weight loss in his freshman year. After a match, he was exhausted and wanted to eat. “After a tournament, we would go out to eat, and I would gain all the weight back and maybe an extra few pounds than what I started off with the previous week,” he said. Like Yamashiro, losing weight is not a one-time problem. Many wrestlers gain back the same or more weight than before because they end up starving their body. Yamashiro also recalled exhaustion everyday during school, especially on Fridays, and seeing sleep as an escape from hunger. The solution is simple. Wrestlers should eat normally and focus on wrestling well at their own weight. It will cause less stress for the athletes, allow them to save their energy, and ultimately make them a better wrestler. Since wrestlers are students as well, they will be less exhausted and more focused in school. If they happen to lose a pound or two unintentionally, that is okay. Besides that, the extra weight will be worth avoiding more stress and possible health problems. Wrestlers should also do specific gravity testing at every tournament. It may take longer to weigh each wrestler, but the testing will assure that they are hydrated and healthy. Last winter break, some of the ‘Iolani varsity boys wrestlers went up a weight class for the Moanalua Holiday Dual Meet Invitational on December 29, 2015. Once again, they took first place at the tournament. Although nearly half of the boys were in a higher weight class, they still proved that they could win with the extra pounds.

SPORTS5 Feb 4-5_v3.indd 1

3/2/16 9:36 AM

Feb 4-5_v3.indd 2

3/2/16 9:36 AM

Aloha, Hawaiian Language ByKanalu Monaco ’20

anguage is an essential part of every culture. Because we live in a culturally-rich place, understanding the native language is an important skill to have. According to the 1978 Hawaii state constitution, Hawaiian is the official language; this means any official documents must be copied and translated into Hawaiian. Hawai‘i is the only American state with two official languages (the other being English). Starting next year, ‘Iolani School is proud to offer a Hawaiian language course. The new class, Hawaiian 1, will first be open to ninth graders and will later expand to include other grade and course levels. The school will not hire

new faculty to teach the class. The school’s decision to offer Hawaiian is timely and appropriate. A few years ago, ‘Iolani Guild, a group that honors our school founders, King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma, spoke to Aunty Lehua, a hula teacher at Iolani. “The kupuna reminded us of the

(Left to Right) Senõra Guia Melo, Aunty Lehua Carvallho, and Melanie Pfingsten helped establish the Hawaiian 1 class.

King’s part in founding ‘Iolani School and the importance of bringing more of Hawai‘i back into our school,” she said. “Students are most engaged when they have an opportunity to know deeply about their immediate surroundings,” says Ms. Melanie Pfingsten, History department head. “Hawaiian is the language of this land. We want students to be able to elect the Hawaiian language course if they want to find deeper engagement in their learning.” With this new course, students will have an opportunity to delve more deeply into the Hawaiian culture and better understand proper pronunciation of Hawaiian names and places.

Science Courses Evolve Next Year BySara Hui ’18 and Samantha Masca ’17

tarting next year, ‘Iolani students can expect significant changes in the science department. Currently, ‘Iolani students need to complete only two science courses. Science requirements for ‘Iolani students will increase from two to three years, so Biology will become a freshman requirement. Some science honors courses will change to better prepare students for the SAT subject tests. Many colleges require incoming freshman to have four years of completed science at the high school level. The science faculty encourages students to take a science course in senior year to prove to colleges that they are “motivated.” Beginning with the class of 2020, all ninth graders will take either Biology or Biology Honors next year. To enroll in Biology Honors, students must have earned an overall grade of a B+ in Science 8 and acquire a teacher’s recommendation. Although the Biology Honors course will be similar in content to the current Biology course, there will be some additions specifically designed to prepare students for the SAT II in Biology. Additionally, with the implementation of the science department changes, every tenth grade student should be

NEWS6 Feb_P6_V9.indd 1

in either General Chemistry or Chemistry Honors by 2018. “For a number of years now, we’ve been trying to cut things out to accommodate the students, and because we have U.S. History for tenth graders this year, we knew that it would be a little difficult,” said Science Department Head Ms. BerthaTomiyasu. One of the common misconceptions circulating is that regular Chemistry will be labeled as Chemistry Honors next year. Chemistry Honors will reflect some changes to accommodate the new bell schedule, but the level of difficulty will remain the same. Chemistry in the Community will no longer be offered to students. The major change to the Physics courses is that Conceptual Physics will no longer be offered to students; instead, students will have a choice between Physics, AP Physics 1, or taking AP Physics 1 and 2 concurrently. “I’m indifferent about the changes next year since they won’t affect me,” said AP Physics 1 student Michael Okumoto ’17. “But I do feel a little cheated because the [biology] classes I had to take are going to get easier for future generations.” “I think it’s a good change,” said Ms. Tomiyasu. “In terms of the students, the

three years of science is important. It’ll help college counseling out a lot, and it will ensure that the kids get a good background in science.” Associate Head of School Dr. Karen Neitzel agrees. “The best way to support students is to help them pursue goals after high school,” she said. Dr. Neitzel said the new requirement will not only allow students to take more challenging courses, but will also allow the administration to decide if new science electives will be offered. Marine Biology and Oceanography are two current science electives that students can take. In the future, ‘Iolani hopes more science electives will be added. Although the classes should ease the student workload, the transition may take some time. As with any new course, building curriculum is complicated.

FEBRUARY2016 2/1/16 1:57 PM

Club of the Month

Global Issues Network ByIsabelle Chow ’20 and Stephanie Wang ’20

Clockwise, Cecily Choy ’16 , Christopher Yick ’16, and Kaitlyn Takata ’16 are just a few of February’s soloists.

Love–and Music–Are In the Air ByKyla Smith ’16

his Valentine’s Day, love—and music—are in the air. Seniors Cecily Choy, Matthew Imanaka, Jennifer Park, Kaitlyn Takata, Kelly Watanabe, and Christopher Yick will grace Hawai‘i Theatre’s stage to play sweet scores from composers Bruch, Doppler, Marchello, Martinu, Tchaikovsky, and Weber. Director of Performing Arts Mr. Kevin Pease applauds the “level of mastery” the soloists possess. Even though this is only his second concerto concert, he is excit-

ed “because of [his] new role . . . It feels more personal.” The soloists, who auditioned in September, have dedicated countless hours both in and out of class to prepare for the big day. Although there are no violin solos this year, look forward to soothing viola, oboe, bassoon, piano, flute, and contrabass concertos. On a closing note, Mr. Pease sends his love to the soloists: “The most important thing is to be in the moment and to enjoy this opportunity.”

oday’s world faces many challenging issues, and ‘Iolani’s Global Issues Network (GIN) aims to help alleviate them. GIN is a worldwide organization that focuses on problems that Jean Francois Rischard, an European economist, details in his book High Noon: Twenty Global Problems, Twenty Years to Solve Them. Some of the problems include global warming, climate change, and deforestation. “Our goal is to inspire and educate students about these issues and get as many people involved as possible,” said Yoo Ra Sung ’19. “I think members will be able to get a sense of the world around them and the urgency and responsibility we have to solve these issues that influence our community, and ultimately, our world.” Club meetings are the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. The next ‘Iolani meeting is on Feb. 10 at SCIL 4th floor. The next GIN community meeting is on Feb. 16, 4-6pm at St. Andrew’s Priory. RSVP by Feb. 10 to Dr. Debbie Millikan.

“Hey BIG Spender!” Come to the show! ByAlec Tam ’20

t’s February, the time for love birds to spread their wings—and for ‘Iolani’s Spring Musical! This year’s extravaganza is Sweet Charity, a classic swingin’ ’60s, award-winning Broadway musical comedy. Lauren Teruya ’17 plays Charity Hope Valentine, a dance-hall hostess who is determined to find love. After finding herself stuck in an elevator with the unassuming tax accountant Oscar Lindquist, played by Todd Polk ’16, Charity wonders if she has finally met her match. The musical, featuring 36 actors and 19 pit members, is heating up behind the scenes. Demanding rehearsals and pre-production preparation fill the actors’ after school hours. “Rehearsals can be excruciating, but it’s all for a great cause,” said Amy Kaneshiro

FEBRUARY2016 Feb_p7_v6.indd 1

’18.

Recruited by a teacher or a veteran pit player, musicians spend hours rehearsing toe-tapping favorites like “There’s Gotta Be Something Better Than This,” “Big Spender,” and “If My Friends Could See Me Now.” The actors’ hard work will pay off during the fun performances, but not before they endure “hell week,” the grueling days that lead to opening night. “During this time, I am much more cognizant about my class assignments and when I need to get them done,” said Lauren. Several newcomers to the spring musical are aware of the rigorous schedule but are up for the challenge. Talented saxophonist Daniel Ferrer ’18 said, “I don’t know what level of hardship to expect, but I hope I can handle it.” Don’t miss this musical comedy about a girl who just wants to be loved! Tickets

From left to right, Alyssa Sakamaki ’17, Erin Carson ’17, Erica Cheung ’18, Alia Levi ’17, Lauren Teruya ’17, Stephanie Zaharis ’17, Lisa Matsui ’17, Tarah Driver ’16, and Samantha Yee ’16 rehearse “Big Brass Band.”

for the February 25-27 performances at the historic Hawaii Theatre are on sale now for just $10 at the Performing Arts Department, Lower School Main Office, Upper School Counseling Office, or on Iolani’s website. Take that someone special with you for a post-Valentine’s Day treat!

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT2016 2/2/16 7:23 AM

#couplegoals A few of the cutest couples on campus

OTP

(One True Pairing)

Mr. and Mrs. Weaver

Best Bromance

BFFs

Dr. Zee and Mr. B

Maia Graham ’16 and Kari Adams ’16

Proconsul Corner: All in this Together W ith senioritis spreading faster than the Dengue Fever epidemic in Hawaii, we wanted to take a moment to ask seniors about their favorite aspects about their soon-to-be alma mater. We gathered these stories over the past months (actually just a couple minutes) and spent millions of dollars on research and development (actually we spent nothing). Jenna Yanke ’16: “I’m really gonna miss the teachers. They are so understanding and truly care about you.” We couldn’t agree more. ‘Iolani has a unique size that allows for close personal relationships with faculty and staff. Throughout our years at Iolani, we have developed friendships with numerous adults outside of the classroom that we hope will continue long after we graduate. Given the amount of time we spend at school, teachers have

shaped many of our beliefs. They have encouraged us to pursue our passions and taught us what it means to be selfless in enabling the dreams of others. Remember to thank your teachers and show your appreciation for everything they do to inspire you. Emily Ibaan ’16: “The opportunities at ‘Iolani are what I will miss most. From clubs to sports, there are countless possibilities.” Don’t wait for them to come to you. Go out and find them. There is no downside to trying new things and opening yourself up to new ideas. Who knows? You may find something you love! Amidst the academic challenges and the many fun activities, it’s important to remember that we’re all going through this together. If you take the time to learn more

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AMY NAKAMURA

ONLINE EDITOR WINSTON WEI

MANAGING EDITOR SARA HUI

SPORTS EDITOR RACHEL BOWLER

SENIOR EDITOR KYLA SMITH

COPY EDITOR SEAN CALLAHAN

PHOTO EDITOR REID UEKI

NAGEM 8.indd 1

about those around you, and appreciate that the students and faculty on campus are here to help each other succeed and grow, you can build long-lasting friendships that will transcend your time here as a student. Take a moment to show a friend how much you appreciate them. Your Proconsuls, Drey, Cole, and Mike

STAFF ISABELLE CHOW EVE HUDDLESTON MIA KUROMARU KANALU MONACO LIAM MONAHAN ALEC TAM RAIN TANABE NAGEM UIAGALELEI STEPHANIE WANG

ADVISORS MRS. LAURIE CHANG MR. TAYLOR WONG

2/1/16 1:58 PM