
The Heart of Haleiwa
May 2025
Sixth Grade Graduation
On May 29, 2025, Haleʻiwa Elementary School proudly celebrated its sixth-grade class with a heartfelt graduation ceremony. Principal Wetzel honored the accomplishments of the graduating students and reflected on the meaningful life lessons they’ve gained during their time at Haleʻiwa.
We extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 2025 as they take the next step in their educational journey at Waialua High and Intermediate School.
A sincere thank you to the dedicated faculty and staff for organizing a memorable and successful graduation ceremony.
The 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship
From May 12–14, 2025, Haleʻiwa Elementary School’s 6th Grade Canefire Robotics Team proudly represented our school and the State of Hawaiʻi at the VEX Robotics World Championship in Dallas, Texas. Competing against teams from around the globe, our students showed incredible determination, teamwork, and perseverance throughout the event.
The Canefire Robotics Team exemplified the true essence of Haleʻiwa Elementary School—Honor, Respect, Kindness, and Love. We are so proud of their efforts and the pride they brought to our school community.
Congratulations to the team on a job well done!
We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Coach and Mentor Mr. Jared Haiola, Mrs. Pam Yamakawa (Curriculum Coordinator), Mrs. Nami Dolan (School Counselor), and Principal Wetzel for their unwavering support and guidance throughout this journey.
Moving Up Day
On May 21, 2025, Haleʻiwa Elementary School students participated in our annual Moving Up Day. This special event gives students the opportunity to visit their future teacher and classroom for the upcoming school year.
Students took part in fun activities, explored their new learning spaces, and were introduced to their new recess play areas. Most importantly, they had a chance to connect with their future teachers and ease the transition into the next grade level.
Everyone had a wonderful time, and the excitement for the next school year is already building!
Have a safe and enjoyable Summer Break—we look forward to welcoming everyone back in August!
2025 Haleiwa Elementary 6th Grade Banquet
On May 27, 2025, Haleʻiwa Elementary School’s 6th grade students celebrated the end of their elementary school journey with the annual 6th Grade Banquet, held at Stonefish Grill in Haleʻiwa.
Students enjoyed a fun and memorable afternoon filled with great food and even better company. They chose from a variety of fountain drinks and delicious menu items, including burgers, chicken, and fish sandwiches. The meal was perfectly topped off with a sweet treat—ice cream!
The banquet provided a wonderful opportunity for students to relax and enjoy time with their teachers and school staff in a festive setting.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Tuvera, Ms. Kawachi, and Mr. Agsalda for their dedication to teaching and mentoring our 6th grade students throughout the year.
A special thank you goes to Ms. Kanani M. Oury and the team at Stonefish Grill for their partnership and support in making this event such a success!
Aloha to our Departing Teachers
As the 2024–2025 school year comes to a close, Haleʻiwa Elementary School bids a fond farewell to five of our dedicated educators who will be moving on to new chapters in their lives. We extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation to:
Beth Anne Brooks, Kindergarten
Sarah Harding, Kindergarten
Jennifer Lee, 2nd Grade
Susie Scanlan, 3rd Grade
Samantha Southam, Special Education
Each of these teachers has made a lasting impact on our students, families, and school community through their commitment, compassion, and care. Their contributions have helped shape the academic and social foundations of countless students, and their presence will be truly missed.
We thank them for their service and dedication to Haleʻiwa Elementary and wish them all the very best in their future endeavors. Their legacy will continue to inspire both students and staff for years to come.
Mahalo to Our Amazing Parent Volunteers
Our parent volunteers have truly been the backbone of our school this year. We are deeply grateful for the time, energy, and heart you devoted to supporting our school-wide activities—from the Pumpkin Decorating Contest at this year’s Halloween Fun March to setting up and running the ʻIwa Essence Store.
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our dedicated parent volunteers:
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Ms. Sara Armold
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Ms. Tae Basta
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Ms. Natasha Clark
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Ms. Martha Helminen
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Ms. Evande Kilborn
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Ms. Holly Lowenthal
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Ms. Heidi Roberts
Your contributions have brought joy, support, and spirit to our campus, and we couldn’t have done it without you.
A special mahalo goes out to Mrs. Sara Armold for also generously volunteering her time to lead Physical Education classes. Your dedication to our students’ health and well-being has made a meaningful and lasting impact.
As we head into the summer months, we wish all of our parents a relaxing and well-deserved break. We look forward to collaborating with you again in the upcoming school year.
From all of the Haleʻiwa students, faculty, and staff — thank you!