KEKAHA — It used to be that an exciting field trip meant a day away from classroom learning to visit a museum or botanical garden. But due to the generous donation from two community supporters, 34 students from Kula Aupuni
KEKAHA — It used to be that an exciting field trip meant a day away from classroom learning to visit a museum or botanical garden.
But due to the generous donation from two community supporters, 34 students from Kula Aupuni Niihau, a fully accredited Kauai public charter school, are going to see the live Broadway production of “The Lion King” in Honolulu.
“It’s awesome,” said fifth-grade student Josh Lagnay who will be one of students making the trip Friday for the world famous show.
Students, including Lagnay’s brother and sister, were selected for the trip based on attendance and academic standing.
“I studied hard and got all A’s in spelling and multiplication,” explained Lagnay on the day he was told he’d been chosen to see the show..
Kanaka became licensed in August 2001. It is the only Kauai K-12 bilingual school. Ninety-seven percent of its students are eligible for free meals, and the school doesn’t charge tuition.
January McHenry, a second and third grade teacher at the school, is thrilled to be accompanying the students along with eight other staff members.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for our students not only because of the entertainment value but for the learning value as well,” said McHenry.
She has been incorporating geography, mapping and geometry activities with the adventures of two popular Lion King characters Simba and Mufasa.
“The students love it,” said McHenry. “They study where Simba and Mufasa live and then map where their own homes are located.”
Another stop on the students’ journey will be a tour of the Iolani Palace. That experience is yet another treat in addition to the students’ airfare being provided by the anonymous donors. The school is picking up the tab for van service and meals.
