Support and Resources

Kaunaloa Orientation

At the beginning of the semester,  all Kaunaloa students and their families are required to attend an online Orientation Meeting. This Orientation will discuss the expectations of the Kaunaloa Program, the Kaunaloa Study Hall period, Resources and Support, tips for success, and provide an opportunity to answer any questions. 

• January 2025 

Mandatory Advising

All Kaunaloa students are REQUIRED to meet with KSH Dean of Studies, Mr. Isaac Keoua Vigilla, for a 1-on-1 advising appointment at least three (3) times throughout the semester. 

A final advising appointment is optional during the final weeks of the semester. Please note, students may schedule an appointment with the KSH Dean of Studies at any time throughout the semester to answer any questions or discuss any issues with your Kaunaloa Course. 

Appointment Scheduling

Students may meet with the KSH Dean of Studies during their Kaunaloa Study Hall period (preferred). KSH Dean of Studies will be available Kaunaloa Study Hall during the Mandatory Advising periods. 

If students do not have a Study Hall period or would like to schedule a different time, you may schedule an appointment during Hō'ola, Kūkoa, or lunch. Please contact Dr. Vigilla directly to schedule. 

Kāko‘o Kaunaloa Peer Program

The Kāko‘o Kaunaloa Peer Program enhances the learning environment by pairing returning students with new students. These returning students, acting as mentors, provide guidance and support to help newcomers navigate their courses and integrate into the Kaunaloa community. They facilitate connections, share successful strategies, and introduce new students to relevant resources and peers enrolled in the same courses.

This mentorship program aims to foster a supportive network, enhance pilina, and develop leadership skills among returning students. Participants are expected to meet weekly and uphold principles of respect and confidentiality throughout their engagement, ensuring a productive and positive experience for all involved.

Optional Course Study Groups

You can now see which peers are enrolled in the same courses as you. While collaborating in study groups is encouraged for reviewing material and preparing for exams, please remember that all assignments must be completed individually. 

Peer Mentor Groups

Each Peer Mentor Group includes a mix of returning and new Kaunaloa students, offering a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. Starting next week, you should be regularly checking in EVERY MONDAY or TUESDAY with your Peer Mentor group. These check-ins are key to fostering a supportive environment and ensuring everyone is making progress. Study hall students should also refer to the Kaunaloa Success Pack for assignments related to Peer Mentor Group activities.

Each week, every peer group is required to submit an online summary of their discussion, along with any support needs they have identified.

Tips for a Successful Peer Mentor Group

1. Be Consistent: Establish a regular schedule for your weekly check-ins to maintain momentum and accountability.

2. Grade Checks: Use your check-ins to review each other’s progress and discuss strategies for maintaining or improving grades.

3. Be Open and Honest: Share your challenges and successes to build trust and create a supportive space.

4. Stay Positive: Encourage and motivate each other by celebrating achievements, no matter how small.

5. Utilize Resources: Make full use of the Kaunaloa Success Pack and share any additional helpful resources or best practices within your group.

Your active participation in these groups can make a significant difference in your academic journey. If you have any questions or need further support, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Grade Policy

All students and the Dean of Studies have access to current grades and course progression using the program’s learning management system. 

Check and Connect

Check and Connect is designed to enhance student engagement and ensure continuous progress throughout the academic term. Each student will be paired with a Peer Partner. Students are required to meet weekly during the Kaunaloa Study Hall period to discuss their academic progress, share study strategies, and provide mutual support. 

Additionally, students must connect weekly with their Kūkoa kumu on Monday and Friday. These check-ins will focus on addressing any academic or personal challenges students might be facing, discussing feedback on assignments, and setting goals for the upcoming week.

Midterm Grade Reports and At-Risk

At the midpoint of Kaunaloa sessions, a Midterm Grade Report will be sent to haumāna and KSH Counselors, indicating progress. Students with less than 50% course completion or failing grades are considered "At-Risk" and will work with the Dean of Studies to develop a Plan for Success. Additionally, “At-Risk” students will not be able to tutor with Holopono Academic Success Center nor use their Modified Schedule privilege until they are no longer “At-Risk.”

Kaunaloa Probation

If a student fails, withdraws, or drops a dual credit course, they will be placed on Kaunaloa Probation. Kaunaloa Probation is specific to the Kaunaloa program and does not impact the student's academic probation status at KS. Additionally, students and/or parents/guardians will be financially responsible if the student fails to complete the course within the semester or if they receive a non-passing grade.

To petition for reinstatement, the student must submit a written statement that includes a root cause analysis of the course failure. This statement should clearly identify the issues that led to the failed course and outline specific practices and changes the student will implement if reinstated into the program.

If reinstatement is granted, the student may repeat the failed course. The new grade from the repeated course will replace the original failed grade on the KS transcript. Please note, the policy for repeated courses on the college transcript may vary among Kaunaloa partners.

Final Grades

All final Kaunaloa Grades will be included in the KS transcript, including failed courses. Students and ‘ohana will be financially responsible if the student fails to complete the course within the semester or if they receive a non-passing grade (D or lower). 

Family Educational Privacy Act (FERPA)

The federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (also called FERPA or the Buckley Amendment) affords students certain privacy rights regarding their education records. If a student is attending a postsecondary institution - at any age - the rights under FERPA have transferred to the student. 

By law, Kaunaloa Program cannot release any information about the student's educational record, including grades, if they are enrolled in a postsecondary institution (ASU, UHH/HCC, HPU). 

Students are encouraged to grant guest access and openly discuss their Kaunaloa grades with their families. 

ASU Parent Guest Access

My ASU Parent Guest Access is an online tool that allows students to share FERPA-protected information with parents and guests. Students have the choice to share some or all of their FERPA-protected information with parents and guests. For more information visit My ASU Parent Guest Access.