What IPA's logo represents

Island Pacific Academy was founded in the tradition of excellent independent schools, and the shield element of the logo reflects those more traditional roots.

However, IPA seeks to be of the place it inhabits, the very special place that is Hawai`i. Therefore, our school motto is given in the Hawaiian language; I Mua Me Ka Ha`aheo – Go Forward With Confidence. Another interpretation of ha`aheo would be “humble pride.” We take pride in our achievements, but always know there are ways to improve, and have the confidence that we have the skills to strive for such improvement.

The compass rose in the center of the logo is an historic navigational tool, and reflects our nickname, The Navigators. This same element is used on many of our athletic team uniforms and other items that reflect school pride and identification..

Navigators: Nickname History and the N logo

One meaning of the name Makakilo (the region on the slopes above Kapolei) is “observing eyes,” or a place from which observations are made. It is believed that it was from this region that early Hawaiians came to learn navigation by stars and constellations because they were easily studied from that vantage point. In addition, there are places on the higher slopes where one can see all the other main islands in the chain and understand their directional relationship with each other. So, this is a place where early wayfinders learned skills to navigate canoes across the Pacific.

Navigators at IPA are learning to navigate a metaphorical “canoe.” IPA strives to provide students with the skills they will need to navigate their lives and careers in the 21st Century. The navigators of old were the leaders, the ones to show others the way. In similar fashion, we encourage IPA students to take leadership roles and to model the qualities of kindness and generosity of spirit, collaboration and respect for others.

IPA's Oli: Nā Kau a Kau

Kumu Pumehana Silva, sister of IPA kumu Momi Kuahiwinui, and her colleague, kumu Melelani Spencer, created a special oli for Island Pacific Academy. In the words of the oli they incorporated the traditional roots of the Honouliuli ahupuaa of which Kapolei is a part, and reflected the core values of generosity and kindness that are foundational to the school.

The oli was introduced by Silva, Spencer and Kuahiwinui at an assembly in fall 2007, and students learned to chant it during that school year, culminating in its first use by the whole school together in IPA’s May Day celebration the following spring. It is now used to open assemblies and other events at the school on a regular basis.
Learn the words to the oli here.

IPA's Alma Mater

The creation of the school Alma Mater was a collaboration by two faculty members, Cami Nihipali and “Doc” Wilson. Independently, they had each started their own versions of a possible tune and lyrics to serve this purpose, and then worked together to produce the version that has been adopted by the school. It was introduced by the Class of 2011 at their graduation ceremony.
Learn the words to the Alma Mater here.
Get sheet music here.

The Navigator Song

Introduced to the Elementary Division in Spring 2011, this song was the collaborative creation of Natalie Welch (‘19) and her parents. It will be sung frequently at elementary assemblies and other occasions.
Learn the words to The Navigator Song here.
Get the sheet music here.