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By HI Now Staff
HONOLULU (HI Now) – This Saturday, the Windward Mall won’t be just a spot to shop retail. Families will have the opportunity to “shop” more than 30 learning options at Hawaii’s inaugural K-12 Parent and School Expo, which takes place 1-4 p.m. at the mall.
Technology academies, classical schools, international academies, Christian and Buddhist schools, tutoring organizations, preschool options, and more will host tables at the mall, showcasing their educational offerings to families. Parents and students will have the chance to make firsthand connections as they explore what learning environment best matches their child’s interests and needs.
Already selected a school for the fall? Come for the expo’s family-friendly fun and entertainment, including face painting, a balloon and airbrush tattoo artist, a photobooth, a DJ, prizes, and free snacks. Throughout the day, a student showcase will spotlight local talent, from hula performances to youth choirs.
More than two hundred families are expected to attend the K-12 Parent and School Expo. The expo is planned to coincide with the celebration of National School Choice Week (Jan. 21-27, 2024), which will feature tens of thousands of school choice celebrations across all 50 states. The goal of the Week is to raise awareness about all school types and celebrate school and student achievements. Gov. Green recently recognized Hawaii School Choice Week and called its observance to the attention of Hawaii families.
While those celebrating the Week typically wear School Choice Week’s signature yellow scarves to show their support, the Hawaii Parent and School Expo will put its own state twist on the Week, featuring yellow sunglasses and leis in lieu of the scarves.
“This is an exciting opportunity for schools and organizations to showcase their unique contributions to Hawaii’s education ecosystem,” said David Sun-Miyashiro, executive director of HawaiiKidsCAN, a local non-profit partner helping to host the event. “Windward Mall is a fantastic gathering space for local families, with numerous retailers, community spaces, and food vendors.”
HawaiiKidsCAN, the event host, advocates for the success of every Hawaii student, from pre-K through college and career.
Windward Mall is located at 46-056 Kamehameha Hwy in Kaneohe.
Families can learn more and RSVP for the free event at honoluluschoolfairexpo.com.
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