The seventh graders visited the Mega Lab, a community lab using 3D tech and storytelling to protect Hawai'i’s reefs, to investigate marine conservation efforts scientists are addressing in Hawai'i.
Welcome to Conservation Chronicles, a 7th Grade Science podcast series at Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy, where students explore what makes Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems so valuable and how we can help protect them. From native forests and watersheds to coral reefs and marine life, each episode highlights the interconnected environments that sustain our islands and the people working to preserve them.
This project represents the culmination of an authentic, inquiry-based learning journey guided by 7th Grade Science teacher Mrs. Mitchell, Educational Technologist Ms. Monello, and Librarian Ms. Tarnas. Students began by researching a conservation expert whose work connected to Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems and environmental challenges. They then developed thoughtful interview questions, conducted live interviews with their guests, and curated audio clips to craft compelling three-act podcast narratives.
What you’re about to hear is more than a polished podcast episode. It is the result of critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and meaningful engagement with real-world science and storytelling. Through this process, students deepened their understanding of conservation issues while growing as communicators, researchers, and the next generation of environmental stewards.
We invite you to listen in and discover how learning at HPA inspires students to connect with, care for, and protect the world around them.