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A Glimpse into Boarding School Life at Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy
One of the most common questions families ask when exploring boarding school options is: What does a typical day look like for a student? Beyond academics, they want to understand how students live, learn, and grow within the community—how daily routines shape not only their education but also their independence, friendships, and character.

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, students like Regina and Marta offer personal insight into what life on campus truly feels like. Their days are filled with meaningful classroom experiences, hands-on electives, outdoor adventures, and tight-knit dorm life—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Big Island. These firsthand reflections offer prospective families a window into the heart of the HPA experience: a balance of challenge, creativity, connection, and joy.

Regina’s Story: A Journey of Resilience

After leaving high school at 17 to care for her child and cope with the sudden loss of her father, Regina put education on hold. Years later, inspired by her daughter and a desire to grow, she returned to earn her GED and eventually, her college degree.

Her journey wasn’t easy. She balanced studies with work and parenting, often doubting if she’d finish. But with determination and the right support, she did.

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, we celebrate stories like Regina’s. They reflect the Ka Makani spirit: strength in adversity, purpose through challenge, and the belief that it’s never too late to learn and thrive.

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, we honor stories like Regina’s. They remind us that education is not just about where you start—it’s about who you become.

Marta’s Journey from Spain to Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy

Originally from Spain, Marta Arcones chose Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy for its unique mix of academic challenge, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Leaving behind the traditional Spanish school system, she was drawn to Hawai'i Preparatory

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Hybrid Work Models: The New Normal for Businesses

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How To Use AI To Choose a School

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Here are 5 notable American boarding schools with strong crew programs:

  1. Phillips Andover Academy (Massachusetts) - Known for its particularly strong crew program and legendary coaching staff1.
  2. Kent School (Connecticut) - Recognized as a top institution for regatta crew, especially in boys' rowing1.
  3. Groton School (Massachusetts) - Features an on-campus Bingham Boathouse with extensive facilities including three bays of rowing shells and 21 rowing ergometers3.
  4. Northfield Mount Hermon (Massachusetts) - Offers a comprehensive program for both novice and experienced rowers, with access to the new Draper Riverhouse on the Connecticut River4.
  5. St. Paul's School (New Hampshire) - Features a distinguished program led by a former U.S. Rowing Junior coach1.

Program Features

These schools typically begin their rowing season in mid-March and participate in the New England Interscholastic Rowing Association (NEIRA) competitions3. Many of their graduates continue rowing at prestigious colleges and universities, including institutions like Princeton, Harvard, Georgetown, and other top-tier schools3.

Citations:

  1. https://talk.collegeconfidential.com/t/which-boarding-school-has-the-best-crew-team/1350005
  2. https://www.rumseyhall.org/student-life/news/post/~board/news/post/rumseys-winning-crew-program-embarks-on-season-with-determination
  3. https://www.groton.org/team-detail?Team=99058
  4. https://www.nmhschool.org/athletics-home/programs/boys/rowing-spring
  5. https://www.boardingschoolreview.com/crew-boarding-school-sports
  6. https://www.thehill.org/athletics/team-pages/coed/crew
  7. https://thebestschools.org/rankings/k-12/best-boarding-schools/
  8. https://www.dickinsonboardingschools.com/blog/which-are-our-top-british-boarding-schools-rowing
  9. https://www.privateschoolreview.com/massachusetts/crew-school-sports
  10. https://talk.collegeconfidential.com/t/best-school-for-crew/1115941
  11. https://www.stgeorges.edu/about/best
  12. https://www.blair.edu/athletics/spring-sports/girls-crew
  13. https://www.thoughtco.com/schools-offering-rowing-2774748
  14. https://www.privateschoolreview.com/new-hampshire/crew-school-sports
  15. https://www.experienceboarding.ca/rowing-schools.php
  16. https://www.imgacademy.com/boarding-school
  17. https://www.dcurbanmom.com/jforum/posts/list/25/1202486.page
  18. https://www.boardingschoolreview.com/intramural-sports-boarding-schools-extracurricular
  19. https://www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk/digital-media/blog/top-schools-for-rowing
  20. https://www.englischeinternate.com/blog/top-five-boarding-schools-rowing

Academics: International Baccalaureate & Advanced Placement

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Academics: International Baccalaureate & Advanced Placement
We compare and contrast the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and Advanced Placement. We also explore their distinct educational philosophies, curriculum structures, assessment methods, and global recognition to help students and parents make informed decisions about which rigorous academic program best suits their educational goals and learning preferences.

Academics: International Baccalaureate & Advanced Placement

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and Advanced Placement (AP) are two prestigious academic curricula found in boarding schools offering rigorous college-preparation academics. While both programs offer significant benefits and have similar aims, they differ substantially in structure, philosophy, and the way they present their subject material. In this article, we'll examine these differences in order to help you make informed decisions about which program works best for you.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a comprehensive two-year curriculum designed for students aged 16-19. Established with a global perspective, the IBDP aims to develop students who excel not only intellectually but also physically, emotionally, and ethically.

Established in 1968, the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) was the first programme offered by the IB and is taught to students aged 16-19. Source: IB.org

Teacher Training and Lesson Planning

One of the questions to ask when you are researching schools is what training, certifications, and experience their IB or AP teachers have.

Teacher Training International Baccalaureate (IB)

To teach IB courses, teachers typically need specialized training and certification.

  • The International Baccalaureate Organization offers various levels of certification, including the IB Certificate in Teaching and Learning, which requires completing a recognized program of study.
  • For higher-level certifications, such as the IB Advanced Certificate in Teaching and Learning Research, teachers must have at least three years of IB
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Education Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Outdoor Adventure in Shaping Young Minds

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Education Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Outdoor Adventure in Shaping Young Minds
The concept of outdoor education dates back to the early 20th century as educators sought ways to engage students beyond traditional methods. Early efforts initially focused on direct, experiential learning in nature, but later evolved to incorporate academics, collaborative skills, and a focus on environmental responsibility. Outdoor education today equips students with critical life skills, preparing them for the world beyond the classroom.
Annie Wright Schools

Education Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Outdoor Adventure in Shaping Young Minds

By Betta Hanson, GOAT Co-Director & Residential Faculty at Annie Wright Schools

In a time when screens and schedules dominate our daily lives, outdoor education programs are redefining how students learn and grow.

  • By blending academic learning with real-world outdoor experiences, these programs effectively foster resilience, leadership abilities, and a deeper connection to nature.
  • The concept of outdoor education dates back to the early 20th century as educators sought ways to engage students beyond traditional methods.
  • Early efforts initially focused on direct, experiential learning in nature but later evolved to incorporate academics, collaborative skills, and a focus on environmental responsibility.
  • Outdoor education today equips students with critical life skills, preparing them for the world beyond the classroom.

This video offers an overview of Annie Wright Schools.

Why Outdoor Education Matters

Outdoor education provides benefits beyond the immediate thrill of adventure.

  • Students develop important skills such as resilience, leadership, and environmental stewardship by participating in activities that push their physical, emotional, and intellectual limits.
  • The impact of outdoor education goes far beyond the surface.
  • It promotes curiosity and creativity, encouraging students to approach problems from various angles.

Outdoor education also builds a sense of community and collaboration.

  • Whether summiting a peak together or navigating a kayak through uncharted waters, students learn to communicate effectively, trust one another, and work toward shared
. . .read more

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