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INTRODUCING HTA
Hawai‘i’s largest public charter school
YES, we are a public charter school, so there is no tuition!
Yes, our blended program is K-12 — but please check the campus/es on your island to see what is offered.
Our fully virtual Distance Learning program is for grades 4-12.
Nearly everywhere in Hawai‘i! We have campuses on O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island.
We also have a separate Distance Learning that is fully virtual — this is for grades 4-12 and students from five islands currrently attend this program.
Correct. The “technology” in our name means that we embrace technology as a means to help us learn and communicate and prepare for life beyond school. HTA students are learning the tech skills that are used in today’s global job market, but they are headed for futures in all areas.
No. And, yes. Please read on so we can explain! In our blended program, students split their time between on-campus days, online class days, and independent days. But our separate Distance Learning program IS fully virtual for all classes. The distance program does have some face-to-face elements, though — this includes community days and on-campus testing days. The blended and Distance Learning programs are independent of each other, with their own enrollments and schedules.
Yes. We have been WASC-accredited since 2013.
Public charter schools are governed by their own board and overseen by the Hawai‘i State Public Charter School Commission. While HTA operates independently from the Hawai‘i State Department of Education, it follows state laws and policies set by the Hawai‘i State Board of Education.
In the words of our ‘ohana: the teachers • flexibility • entrepreneurial energy • Field Studies • extraordinary learning environment • convenience • maintains family lifestyle • no bullying • individualized support • open channels of communication
2008
THE YEAR HTA OPENED ITS DOORS
BLENDED PROGRAM SCHEDULES
Our schedules provide flexibility and promote independence
Blended learning uses a mix of delivery methods and locations. Some days students are on campus with their teachers and peers. Some days they are taking virtual classes at home with their Learning Coach as support. And other days they are engaged in independent or experiential learning out in the community.
Yes. School is definitely five days a week. A student’s weekly schedule varies, depending on island, grade level, and academic needs. You’ll find the link to weekly schedules on our campus pages.
Yes. Depending on grade level, there are scheduled days every week when our blended program students meet their teacher/s and peers on Zoom.
Please note, the blended program is different from our Distance Learning program, where all classes are virtual.
Yes. Field Studies are an integral part of our curriculum. Our community partners provide expert knowledge and our students have the opportunity to extend their learning in valuable hands-on situations. Please note that Field Studies are often scheduled on independent or virtual learning days; Learning Coaches are required to provide transportation to and from the sites.
These are independent learning days. In elementary school, students engage in online and/or teacher-created lessons from home. This is one area where the Learning Coach role is particularly important. Middle and high school students will also have assigned or independent work. High school students may also use this time to explore with our Career-Based Learning program.
Teachers and advisors can be reached five days a week during normal school hours, and are available for face-to-face or virtual meetings when support is needed.
There are many!
Our blended schedule helps our students develop the independence and tech skills that they will need when they step beyond high school.
Students can work at the pace that suits them best. For example, virtual classes are recorded, giving a valuable opportunity to review.
And it gives us all time.
Our teachers have time to be innovative and to focus on students’ independent needs.
Our families have time to spend together.
Our students have time to pursue their passions. HTA students are leaders, scholars, scientists, artists, and athletes. They build radio telescopes, write award-winning essays, go viral with their talents, take care of the ‘āina, take college-level classes, win music and dance scholarships … and the HTA schedule supports these endeavors.
6
HTA campuses on the four main Hawaiian islands
OUR DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAM
We also offer Hawai‘i’s largest fully virtual program for grades 4-12
We offer a fully virtual Distance Learning program for Grades 4-12. The program does have some face-to-face elements to foster the spirit of community. It operates separately from our regular blended program campuses. We launched the program in 2022 in response to continued demand following the pandemic school closures and we currently enroll nearly 400 students across five islands.
School IS five days a week and students can expect to put in a full day every day. Schedules vary by grade level. Some days our Distance Learning students have live scheduled classes with their teachers and peers. Other days they are working on independent assignments with their Learning Coaches or are out in the field. And some days there may be individual or small-group tutoring for those who need extra help.
Find the weekly schedules on the Distance Learning page.
There are students who absolutely thrive in the virtual environment. For some students and families, learning at home is just a more comfortable fit than coming to a campus; it eliminates commute times; and frees up family time. Distance learning allows students to grow and learn in a more independent setting. It can also offer greater school-life balance by giving students the time to pursue interests outside the regular classroom. Our students take advantage of this to really develop their interests and find their own unique paths to success.
HTA has been a leader in virtual education in Hawai‘i since we opened our doors in 2008, so we know how to make online classes engaging. Teachers may use interactive whiteboards, polls and quizzes, live chat, guest speakers, video and audio streaming, breakout rooms, and more.
Yes. Before the first day of the school year, we hold photo day at each campus. These photos are important as we use them for your school ID.
If you are participating in our computer loan program, you will pick this up from your HTA island campus. You may also need to pick up your HTA T-shirt and school supplies.
There is also mandated testing in certain grades when our distance learning students need to come on campus to take the test in person.
It is important to know that you need to commit to the full academic year in the Distance Learning program. Due to scheduling differences, it is not possible to switch mid-year with our blended learning program on our physical campuses.
OUR PLACE-BASED pbHTA PROGRAM
DIVING DEEPER INTO learning out in the field
pb stands for place-based. This program is at the leading edge of our innovation as students dive deeper into learning out in the field. pbHTA has its own separate enrollment and schedules. Students learn their foundational skills in their on-campus and Zoom classes; then they put that into practical application as they work at our community partner sites around the islands.
Students learn their foundational skills in their on-campus and Zoom classes; then they put that into practical application as they work at our community partner sites around the islands. Visit our pbHTA page to learn more.
Currently HTA offers pbHTA enrollment at ‘Ewa Beach for K-5, and Waipahu and Lāhainā for grades 6-8.
It is clear to our pbHTA students why they are learning something because they see it being directly applied. For example, when our Waipahu students built an outdoor stage at Hawai‘i’s Plantation Village, they naturally used their math skills as they designed, measured, and hammered. This kind of learning can really resonate with students, particularly those who find more meaning in hands-on experiences. It has been shown to improve content mastery, communication and collaboration, critical thinking, and problem solving
It is important to know that you need to commit to the full academic year in the pbHTA program. Due to scheduling differences, it is not possible to switch mid-year with our blended learning program or our Distance Learning program.
390
Students from five islands in our separate Distance Learning program
THE LEARNING COACH ROLE
Parents and/or guardians play a unique and important role in the HTA model
Every student has a Learning Coach, who is typically a parent or guardian, although third-party Learning Coaches can be assigned.
Your involvement is vital for your child’s success. The Learning Coach role does vary by student and grade level, but parents are much more hands-on in their child’s education than at a regular school.
Visit our Learning Coach page for more details.
You do not need to be an educator to be a Learning Coach; HTA provides training that supports you in this role.
Students and Learning Coaches can reach out to their teachers and advisors on their independent work days. Teachers can be reached five days a week, during normal school hours, and are available for face-to-face or virtual meetings to offer support.
Yes, at the start of every school year we hold Learning Coach workshops. Among other things, these introduce you to HonuHub, our school information system, as well as Canvas, which is where students and Learning Coaches access assignments, class announcements, academic feedback, and grades. These workshops are required for new Learning Coaches — returning parents are also more than welcome to attend.
For elementary Learning Coaches we also hold monthly Zoom workshops with support and discussions on key topics.
There are lots of ways to get involved.
• Be a classroom volunteer, or sponsor/co-lead a club with HTA faculty.
• Be a community partner by inviting students to your work as a Field Study.
• Help plan and stage events such as grade promotions, pizza lunches, or evening social events.
• Participate in Learning Coach coffee talks, meet and greets, and Learning Coach learning committees.
Reach out to your campus director to see what opportunities are available on your campus.
These are the things we believe to be important. Our Five Cores could also be called the employability skills, as they represent the essential attributes that students need to be successful in school, life, and the workplace.
HOW HTA STUDENTS LEARN
traditional classroom + unique schedules + EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Engaging! You will see students, teachers, and staff all working together. Students are in classes as per a typical school. Teachers often use these days for small group discussions, hands-on activities, and supplemental instruction. We are a close-knit community; every child is supported and we believe you can feel that energy when you come on campus.
We believe that people learn best by doing. Hands-on experiences help students make connections between themselves and the world and show them how they can make a difference. We do this through our class projects, our Field Studies, and our high school Career-Based Learning program.
This is when students learn in an environment outside of the traditional classroom. Place-based learning helps students develop a deeper understanding of their curriculum material. Our teachers harness this through our Field Studies and special project-based initiatives.
We also offer a unique place-based program, or pbHTA, on several HTA campuses. The enrollment and scheduling for pbHTA is separate from our original blended program.
We want every child to succeed. Our schedule is designed so that teachers have dedicated time to work with students either individually or in small-group settings to target areas where they need extra assistance. These sessions may be on campus or online and they are required if a student’s grades fall below a certain point.
This is optional open-campus time on Mondays for middle and high school students. The lab is open to all students, and is designed to provide a focused place to work, catch up, or push ahead.
• Collaborate with peers on group projects
• Get some one-on-one support from teachers
• Find a quiet zone to focus on assignments
• Participate in scheduled HTA activities/clubs
• Join scheduled activities such as SAT prep.
To ensure comprehensive support for all students, middle school teachers may schedule dedicated time for individuals or small groups in the Momentum Lab — attendance, when requested, is required.
As a public charter school, HTA does offer special education and related services. However, due to the nature of the blended model, HTA may not be able to meet the needs of all special education students. All students with disabilities receive individualized consideration when applying for admission to HTA. If HTA’s Special Education Service Providers determine that a student’s special education needs and services cannot be implemented by HTA, as written in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan, then the student’s IEP Team or 504 Team will convene to determine whether any changes/amendments can be made to the student’s IEP or 504 Plan that would allow HTA to meet the student’s needs. If you have any questions, please contact Student Services Coordinator Sarada Wright at swright@myhta.org.
HTA uses MAP test data to drive decision-making.This allows teachers to tailor instruction to challenge every student, whether they are below, at, or above grade level. The MAP Growth reports present realistic learning goals by subject area so that — with their teacher’s guidance — students can see their progress and be inspired to take charge of their own learning. The MAP tests are administered at the beginning and end of each school year.
Students in Grades 3 to 8 and 11 take the Hawai‘i State Smarter Balanced Assessment in Math and English Language Arts.
HTA actively supports college readiness by encouraging all sophomores and juniors to take the PSAT with us in the spring. Juniors also take the ACT. HTA covers the majority of the cost for both tests.
We are proud to have one of the highest teacher retention rates in the state. Our teachers are experienced and caring and they come to HTA because our school allows them to be collaborative and innovative.
Their mission is to ensure that school makes sense to their students and that they understand how to learn as well as what to learn.
Our blended schedule gives our teachers the time to support each student whether they need some extra help or an extra challenge.
Core classes are math, language arts, science, and social studies. We are aligned with all Hawai‘i state Common Core standards. Our highly qualified teachers use a mix of curricular resources, which allows them to quickly modify, add, and subtract to meet the needs of their students. We use a learning platform called Canvas, which integrates all of our learning resources in a single place, making it simple for students and parents to access teacher-created curriculum and feedback. View our curriculum guides: elementary, middle, high.
HTA’s College and Career team works with students and their families to map out a best-fit plan for each individual. Whether on a career track or a college route, our goal is to highlight students’ individual strengths and skills as they embark on a journey to achieve their goals and dreams.
Our innovative high school Career-Based Learning program allows students to explore different careers while gaining valuable skills and earning credit.
Students can get ahead by taking Running Start classes, which allow them to challenge themselves and earn both high school and college credit. Some HTA students have already earned their Associate in Arts college degree when they graduate from our high school.
Plus students can participate in student leadership, community service, and the National Honor Society.
Our high school follows a block schedule, which means students take fewer classes per semester, allowing them to take a deeper dive into their subjects. Classes change after the first semester.
Students typically take six classes per year; three per semester. In order to promote to the next grade level, students must have five credits after grade 9; 11 credits after grade 10; 17 credits after grade 11; and 24 credits after grade 12.
Find our complete Academic Policies in our School Guidebook.
90%
HTA’s Highly Qualified Teachers
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
Fostering a close and supportive culture
Absolutely! We have a variety of extracurricular opportunities for students in all grade levels. Our elementary schools offer enrichment classes, before and/or after regular school hours. Our middle and high schools also offer enrichment/clubs in the areas of the sciences, arts, social issues, or sports. Middle and high school students also have the opportunity to participate in student government. High school students can apply for the National Honor Society. HTA students compete in events such as school-sponsored science fairs, math competitions, robotics competitions, spelling bees, and more.
Every middle and high school student belongs to an advisory class that meets throughout the year. Advisory helps build belonging and purpose, and advisory teachers are advocates for their students. Our advisory teachers know some fun team-building games. Grade 12 advisory also focuses on preparing for the steps after high school.
Today’s technology affords many opportunities, but it also poses challenges. At HTA we are expanding our classroom conversations in digital wellness and citizenship. In the 21st century, this material must be on the same priority level as math, science, and humanities.
We have responsible-use guidelines, which students are required to review every year. And HTA also uses management software to ensure safe online access on HTA computer loan laptops.
92%
HTA parents and teachers reporting a positive and safe school culture.
School Quality Survey SY 2023-24
DETAILS
Computers, lunches etc.
Yes, we do have an optional computer loan program. There is a refundable deposit of $135 (subject to a $5 service fee). Families that apply for reduced fees through the registrar may qualify for a lower deposit.
Full information can be found in the School Guidebook.
HTA requires all families to have at least one computer that meets the minimum specifications necessary to access online curriculum, virtual classrooms, and HonuHub. High school students should have access to a personal computer that is not shared with other family members or siblings. A broadband internet connection is required for all HTA students, and high-speed internet is required for the Distance Learning program. In addition, families must have access to a printer and a scanner, or a scanning application on a mobile device.
We do not. Students bring their own packed lunches for their on-campus days. Please check with staff during your campus tour what facilities are available, such as microwaves and water coolers.
Our high school division has an open campus policy, whereby students may go off campus for lunch.
The $45/person Student Fee helps cover the cost of basic classroom supplies, single-use academic supplies, curricular software and materials, and an HTA T-shirt. Families who complete HTA’s Application for Reduced Fees may qualify to have this fee subsidized.
Please note: The Student Fee must be paid before participating in the computer loan program or other school activities.
Full information is available in our School Guidebook.
Due to our blended schedule, HTA does not have its own athletics teams; however, high school students who meet academic and attendance requirements are able to participate in athletics at their neighborhood public high school. Our flexible schedule is a drawcard for many athletes because it gives them more time to manage their significant practice and competition schedules. We are proud of our students who excel in their extracurricular activities, which include surfing, golf, gymnastics, dance, tennis, and more.
WHAT ABOUT SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES?
While all of the classes in our program are virtual, we know it is essential to develop a sense of belonging and community with our students.
Our elementary and middle Distance Learning students get together in person once a quarter for fun community days. These events are held on O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island. These get-togethers forge bonds that really carry over into our online classes.
In high school, there are required events each semester, along with optional career and community service opportunities on each island.
Our students can also join some of the social opportunities available on our blended learning campuses, such as clubs, holiday festivities, movie nights, or dances.