Island Pacific Academy - A fifteen-year friendship that keeps opening doors

The Organization

Island Pacific Academy (IPA) is an esteemed independent school located on Oʻahu, led by Head of School Gerald Teramae. Like many of Hawaiʻi's independent schools, IPA pairs its academics with a dedicated student formation program. The school features creative and innovative programs designed to give students a voice and allow them to express themselves in positive, impactful ways. Crucially, the IPA leadership team places high importance on the behaviors and values that the adults on campus model for their students.

The Engagement

Michele and Gerald Teramae share a close friendship spanning over fifteen years, which has fostered numerous collaborations.

Leadership Retreat Presentation: A pivotal moment in this partnership occurred when Michele presented the Dream Big Journal to IPA's leadership team during their retreat.

Adult-First Approach: Michele intentionally began the session by guiding the leaders to revisit their own personal dreams before asking them to engage their students in the same process.

Ongoing Collaboration: Michele and Gerald meet periodically to envision future initiatives. Gerald has consistently supported Michele's work, opening doors and helping her cultivate strong connections with key community leaders.

Curriculum Consideration: Currently, IPA has samples of the Brave Series to consider implementing the curriculum for their own students.

The Outcome

Following the impactful leadership retreat, Gerald Teramae provided a formal endorsement of Michele's presentation. He reflected on the profound effect the session had on his team's mindset and culture:

"Michele was able to rekindle and inspire the need and desire to reignite and inspire our Leadership Team that it is never too late to become a 'dreamer' and make a positive impact and difference in the world." Gerald Teramae, Head of School, Island Pacific Academy