KILAUEA – A new 11,000-square-foot community center at the Kauai Christian Academy campus opened Friday with the smell of flowers and Hawaiian stories in the air. The ceremony marked a special blessing on the $600,000 to $800,000 multi-purpose space.
KILAUEA – A new 11,000-square-foot community center at the Kauai Christian Academy campus opened Friday with the smell of flowers and Hawaiian stories in the air.
The ceremony marked a special blessing on the $600,000 to $800,000 multi-purpose space.
“It’s been five years in the making,” said Daniel Plunkett, school administrator.
The students celebrated by presenting their knowledge of plumeria, hibiscus, orchids and kukui nuts to a crowd of parents and family. But the typical heart of their learning at the school is blended with Christian values and teaching.
“I love the close relationship with teachers,” said Verushqa Andrade, the Queen of the May Day Court at the academy.
There are six teachers for the 46 enrolled students on the expansive campus in Kilauea.
“They really care about you and help you prepare for the world out there through a biblical lens,” Andrade said.
Malia Frye is the mother to three boys, two of whom go to the Academy.
“They both enjoy it,” Frye said. “My seventh-grade son is always coming home and asking questions about Christianity and faith. It opens up a dialogue. It helps expand on what he believes and what other people believe.”
In the early years of Kauai Christian Academy, the students met wherever possible around the island until 15 years ago when a Realtor notified them about the open space becoming available in Kilauea.
“This 10-acre campus fell into our lap,” said School Board President Jimmy Johnson. “We’re in our 40th year now, by the grace of God and against all odds.”
Until this school year, Kai Farley had been home schooled. She said she likes the structure and the discipline.
“For me it’s all about having a personal relationship with God,” Farley said. “I know him and can talk to him about anything all day long.”
Her father is pleased with her choice to study at the academy.
“She said she wanted to come to this school and I supported her,” said Alan Farley, her father.
The cost of tuition can runs more than $600 per month, and Alan said he was grateful for sponsors who helped him with it.
“The Lord makes a way,” Farley said.
Applications are now being accepted for the 2014-15 school year.
For more information on the school visit www.kcaschool.org. Financial aid is available.
• Lisa Ann Capozzi, features and education reporter, can be reached at 245-0452 or lcapozzi@thegardenisland.com.
