What Now? 2026 - Round #2

How Does My Academy Support My Post-High School Goals?

Synopsis: In this student-facilitated panel discussion, students from current Career Academies will share their experiences within their respective Academies and discuss how these experiences are supporting their current post-high school goals. If you're interested in learning more about the various Career Academies at Kapolei High School or seeking a session that incorporates 100% student voice, please join us!

Target Audience: All families

Room #: TBD

Featuring: Students from the following Academies: Business, Engineering & Design, Health, and Ho'ola Natural Resources.

Business Academy

Engineering & Design Academy

Health Careers Academy

Ho'ola Natural Resources Academy

Earn While You Learn: Careers Through Apprenticeships

Synposis: Discover the wide range of “earn while you learn” opportunities available through Hawai‘i’s skilled trades. Representatives from local labor unions will share how apprenticeships work, the benefits they offer, and the steps your student can take to start a rewarding career in the trades.

Target Audience: Families exploring career pathways that combine education and income.

Room #: J-107

Featuring: Hawaii Carpenters Apprenticeship & Training Fund, United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers & Allied Workers, Plumbers-Fitters UA Local 675

From Uniform to University: Alumni and Rising Cadet Journeys

Synopsis: Hear directly from Kapolei High School alumni and a current MCJROTC student who chose to serve in the military while pursuing their college education. This panel provides real-world insight into how they balance service commitments, educational goals, and life beyond high school.

Target Audience: Families learning how to combine service to the country with academic pursuits

Room #: J-104 (MCJROTC Classroom)

Featuring: Lerishane Enriquez ('18), Aldrin Javier ('25), Dylan Apo ('25), Marisol Salas-Salem ('26)

Lerishane Enriquez

U.S. Air Force

Air National Guard

Kapolei HS Class of 2018

UH-Manoa

Bachelor of Science

Human Development & Family Studies

UH-Manoa

Master of Science

Social Work

Aldrin Javier

UH-Manoa

Army ROTC Program

Kapolei HS Class of 2025

Dylan Apo

UH-Manoa

NROTC Scholarship Recipient

Kapolei HS Class of 2025

Marisol Salas-Salem

Current MCJROTC Student

Kapolei High School Class of 2026

Local Gems & Mainland Favorites: Colleges To Know

Synopsis: Explore the most popular colleges both here in Hawai‘i and across the mainland to find the right fit for your future. This panel highlights academic programs, campus life, and admissions tips from institutions that are especially popular with Kapolei High School graduates.

Target Audience: Families who want to learn about college options both in Hawai‘i and on the mainland

Room #: J-105

Featuring: UH-West Oahu, UH-Manoa, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, Pacific University

Bethany Kanda

UH-West Oahu

Dylan Matsuda

UH-Manoa

Teri Ann

Matsuda

California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo

Donna

Ramos Barsana

Pacific University

Navigating the College Financial Aid Process: A Parent’s Perspective

Synopsis: This parent-focused session offers a clear, approachable overview of the college financial aid process, designed to help families understand what to expect and how to plan ahead. Rather than diving into technical FAFSA details, the session will cover the broader financial aid landscape, common timelines, and the role parents play in supporting their student. Led by a College & Career Counselor who has also recently navigated the process as a parent, the conversation will highlight practical insights, common misconceptions, and helpful strategies for staying organized. Parents will leave feeling more confident, informed, and prepared to support their student through this important step.

Target Audience: Parents and guardians of college-bound students.

Room #: J-102

Featuring: Mr. Myles Okoji, Kapolei High School College and Career Counselor

Family Engagement in College Success:

How Families Can Support Students in Their Transition

University of Hawaii-West Oahu's Nā Pua Noʻeau Program

Synopsis: This workshop equips families—especially those of first-generation college students—with practical strategies to support their children’s success in higher education. Participants will explore ways to provide emotional, financial, and communication-based support while fostering their students’ independence. The session also highlights campus programs, mentoring opportunities, and community resources families can use to help their students thrive.

Target Audience: Parents and guardians of college-bound or current seniors—especially those whose children are first-generation college students (meaning the parents/guardians did not attend college themselves).

Room #: J-109

Featuring: UH-West Oahu's Nā Pua Noʻeau Program

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