Frequently Asked Questions

1.  What’s so different about the CONNECTIONS! program?

There are so many “different” aspects about CONNECTIONS.  Here are just a couple.

• Our goal is to help create a success-filled future for children by uncovering their inner motivation, self-confidence and win-win mindsets. Our activities are centered on individual and group accomplishment.
• CONNECTIONS! is experiential and project based.  This allows us to incorporate activities that teach leadership and life skills such as public speaking, financial management and working within teams.  
• CONNECTIONS! is all about connecting with oneself, those around you and the community.  A community service project will be used to focus our efforts and make a difference with our minds, hearts and hands. 
• CONNECTIONS! is also an avenue to enhance a child’s interaction and value with adults and amongst our community. We hope to uncover a sense of belonging and value within our students.

2.  Who would most benefit from being part of CONNECTIONS!?

CONNECTIONS! accommodates all types of learning styles.  Those that are fast learners and have shown leadership will thrive in this type of environment.  With that said, children who have not enjoyed school will also thrive because of the hands-on nature of these classes. 

3.  Why is this type of learning so important?

Creating an environment where learning is fun and engaging helps a child to better integrate the knowledge being learned into how to use this knowledge in their every day life.  Our ultimate goal is to help them to transfer knowledge into successful action. 

4.  My child is only in elementary school, “Isn’t it too early for this type of subjects?” 

It is never too early to introduce a child to the foundational skills of a productive and creative adult and citizen.  CONNECTIONS! will provide an environment for a child to strategize, plan and achieve a successful result in making a change in the community.  It will provide them with a sense of accomplishment which will enhance their self-confidence, inner motivation and a winning attitude.

5.  Will my child be in a multi-level class?

Yes. Due to the limited number of unused classrooms, we will be limited to 60 or less students.  Due to enrollment at this time, we will have one class of up to 20 students.  The determining factor on how classes are set up is the number of students that enroll and their grade level.

6. Are classes only for Kahala Elementary students?

No. Classes are open to all elementary students in the State of Hawaii.

7.  Is CONNECTIONS! new?  Where has it been taught before?

The name “CONNECTIONS” is new, but the framework has been used in 5 in-session and after-school programs started on the mainland.  It is being offered in Hawaii by its creator, Sheila Buyukacar (DeMello) a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the leeward side of Oahu.   

8.  Who will be teaching my child?

We will have a combination of a trained, certified teacher and an aide.  There will be one instructor for every 20 students.  Aides will assist instructors.  All staff members will be required to have a background check and at least one staff member will be CPR trained.

9.  Are you insured?

Yes, we are insured.  It is the law. 

10.  Are you licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS)?

No. We are an exempted service/business due to our hours of operations.  Although, we are not required to follow the DHS guidelines, we will be adhering to the DHS licensing requirements.  Its just good business and helps us to better assure you a safe and nurturing environment. 

11.  Do you provide care before and after your program?

No.  We do not have the license required to provide this service. We have partnered with the Wesley United Methodist Church at 1350 Hunakai Street (732-3273).  They are providing after “class” care.  Please call them (and let us know) to set up these services.

If you’ve got any other questions, please feel free to call at 808 779-3878 or use our Contact Us form.