Learning can take place whenever there is a chance to explore. If you think about a time when you learned something that was particularly meaningful to you, chances are it didnít occur in a school classroom. It may have happened in an informal setting such as a museum, zoo, or nature center. The Pacific Mathematics and Science Regional Consortium at Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL) and Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA) have developed this directory to make it easier to find these opportunities here in Hawaii.
Informal learning refers to activities that occur outside the school setting. These activities are not developed as part of a schoolís curriculum nor are they mandatory; they are opportunities to broaden horizons in unique and exciting ways. This directory includes museums, aquariums, zoos, and other informal ways to learn about mathematics and science. It has been prepared for teachers, parents, and others who work with young people. Teachers will find the directory useful as a guide to programs and resources for field trips, speakers, and real-life examples of science in the community. For parents and others who work with young people, a visit to one of these sites could be both a learning opportunity and a chance to connect with their children and students.
The Hawaii Informal Education Directory will be updated periodically.
If you know of sites that should be added, please contact the Pacific Consortium
at (808) 441-1300. Or you please e-mail the site name, address, and contact
information to:
askmathsci@prel.org
45-720 Keaahala Road
Kaneohe, HI 96744
http://www.wcc.Hawaii.edu/aerospace/default.html
Hours of Operation:
2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.ñThurs.
School tours by appointment only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
Admission:
None
Contact:
Dr. Joseph Ciotti, Director
Tel: (808) 235-2631
Fax: (808) 247-5362
e-mail: ciotti@Hawaii.edu
Description:
Windward Community Collegeís Aerospace Lab is an educational resource center for studies in rocketry, aviation, astronomy and weather. Besides housing an extensive lending library, the Aerospace Lab provides a hands-on physical science exploratorium for teachers and students in Hawaii. Activities and exhibits are based on the philosophy of an ancient Chinese proverb: I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.
WCCís Aerospace Lab serves all public, private, and parochial school teachers and students, particularly those residing in the Windward community. Services reach a broad spectrum of the community including children in preschool through high school, senior citizens, Cub Scouts, home-schoolers, and members of the Civil Air Patrol.
Educational Programs:
One of the primary missions of the Aerospace Lab is to enhance the science-instruction skills of Hawaiiís elementary school teachers by providing in-service training. Since its inception in 1989, the Aerospace Lab has conducted more than 50 workshops for teachers and teacher-student-parent groups. The latter type of workshop is especially valuable because it encourages parental involvement in childís education. This involvement is an important underpinning for effective School/Community-Based Management.
The mission of the lab includes encouraging children in the lower grades to expand their mathematics and science background, thereby increasing their chances for success at post-secondary institutions and in the job market. This mission is commensurate with a national goal to address the decline in academic achievement in the study of science and mathematics--a goal that is shared by the State of Hawaii.
Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden
P.O. Box 1053
Captain Cook, HI 96704
http://www.bishop.Hawaii.org/bishop/greenwell/
Hours of Operation:
7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri.
Admission:
No admission charged. Donations encouraged.
Contact:
Peter Van Dyke, Manager
Tel: (808) 323-3318
Fax: (808) 323-2394
e-mail: pvandyke@bishop.bishop.hawaii.org
Description:
The Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden is a 15-acre site landscaped to reflect the plant life of Kona in the era before European contact. Preserved on the garden site are stonework remnants of the Kona field system, a vast agricultural complex that once supported the Hawaiian population. Polynesian-introduced crops are planted among these archaeological remains, and native plant communities from the coastal area, lowland dry forest, and upland forest complete the landscaping.
The Ethnobotanical Garden supports Hawaiian cultural traditions of land use and also plants and conserves botanical resources of traditional Hawaiian cultural activities. Garden staff discovers and shares knowledge of Hawaiian ethnobotany while actively working towards improving native plant conservation methods.
Educational Programs:
Interpretive tours are available for school groups and elder hostels. School-aged children can participate in hands-on learning activities.
Guided tours are offered to the public on the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m.
1525 Bernice Street
Honolulu, HI 96817
http://www.bishop.hawaii.org/
Hours of Operation:
9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily, except Christmas Day.
Admission:
Adults: $14.95
Youth (6-17 yrs): $11.95
Children under 6: free
Seniors: $11.95
Kamaaina rates available
Contact:
Mr. Tom Cummings
Tel: (808) 848-4274
Fax: (808) 848-8250
e-mail: cummings@bishop.bishop.hawaii.org
Description:
Bishop Museum, a renowned Pacific institution, was founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop, as a memorial to his wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. It houses the worldís largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific artifacts as well as many composite collection of natural history specimens designed to stimulate awareness and appreciation of the worldís natural and cultural treasures.
Educational Programs:
Bishop Museumís Education Department offers a range of docent-led tours for both private and public school students in grades K-12. These programs were developed to educate students about Hawaiian cultural life by allowing them to explore the similarities and differences between early Hawaiian community life and community life today. Students also discover how plants and animals colonized the Hawaiian Islands and how they evolved, and they learn how voyaging canoes like Hokulea were built and sailed by early Hawaiians. Students in grades 3-12 may also visit the museumís planetarium. There, they can learn voyaging techniques used by the early Hawaiians, and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime, futuristic journey through the solar system.
Teachers may also borrow "lending boxes," which contain a variety of museum replicas, reference materials, and artifacts that allow students to examine the world of insects, dinosaurs, and snakes. Students can also play ulumaika, make shell and feathers leis, and examine simple kapa and volcanic rock specimens.
Other programs offered include docent and volunteer training sessions, youth and family classes, and a Japanese visitor tour led by Japanese-speaking docents.
Consortium for Pacific Arts and Cultures
2141-C Atherton Road
Honolulu, HI 96822
Hours of Operation:
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri.
Admission:
None
Contact:
Merrie Carol Grain, Executive Director
Tel: (808) 946-7381
Fax: (808) 955-2722
e-mail: cpac@pixi.com
Description:
Consortium for Pacific Arts and Cultures (CPAC) is one of seven regional arts organizations, across the United States, each serving a cluster of states. CPAC serves the U.S. Territories of American Samoa and Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. All six regional arts organizations are funded primarily by the National Endowment for the Arts.
CPAC is committed to:
Programs are directed to all audiences, from youngsters to adults, and underserved areas and groups. Program subjects include:
180 N. Vineyard Boulevard
Honolulu, HI 96817
Hours of Operation:
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, except Christmas and New Yearís Day
Admission:
Adult: $3
Children (6-12): $1
Children 5 and under: Free
Contact:
Director
Tel: (808) 522-7065
Description:
The mission of Foster Botanical Garden is to plan, develop, curate, maintain, and study documented collections of tropical plants in an aesthetic setting for the purposes of conservation, botany, horticulture, education, and passive recreation.
Educational Programs:
Guided tours are provided Monday through Friday at 1 p.m. Other guided group tours are offered upon request. Reservations are recommended. A gardening class, where staff members teach a variety of gardening techniques, is offered on Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m.
P.O. Box 369
Makawao, HI 96768
Hours of Operation:
7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Admission:
Private vehicles: $4
Commercial vehicles/buses: Inquire before coming
Contact:
Special Program Coordinator
Tel: (808) 572-9306 ext. 5513
Fax: (808) 572-1304
Description:
Haleakala National Park was designated as one of Hawaiiís National Parks on August 1, 1916. The mission of the National Park Service is "to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations."
Haleakala National Park has two districts: Kipahulu district is located at sea-level near Hana district. The Summit district has two primary vegetative zones and is located between the 7,000 and 10,000-foot level. The parkís primary feature is itís Wilderness Area, commonly referred to as a "crater."
Educational Programs:
Visitor Education Programs
Natural and Cultural History Presentations
9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. daily
Guided Cinder Desert Hike
10 a.m. to noon. Tues. and Fri.
Guided Waikamoi Cloud Forest Hike
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mon. and Thurs.
Third grade: Who Lives at Haleakala?
Concepts of native and alien species, habitat, and adaptation are covered
Fourth grade: A Walk Through Time
Culture comes from the natural environment and changes with time. Cultural
practices impact the environment. A culture can be lost if it is forced
to adapt to many changes in the environment.
Fifth grade: If Rocks Could Talk
The Hawaiian Islands are formed by volcanic activity and destroyed
by erosion.
3860 Manoa Road
Honolulu, HI 96822
Hours of Operation:
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mon.-Sat.
Closed Sundays and state holidays
Admission:
No admission fee
Donations greatly appreciated
Contact:
Ranjit G. Cooray, Education Specialist
Tel: (808) 988-3177
Fax: (808) 988-4231
For information: (808) 988-7378
Description:
The Harold L. Lyon Arboretum coordinates, facilitates, and executes research, instruction, and service activities that utilize its collections and resources. Its major emphases are tropical plants, native Hawaiian plants, conservation biology, and Hawaiian ethnobotany.
The arboretum is responsible for:
General guided tours or special tours can be arranged for teachers focusing on tropical botany, horticulture, general ethnobotany, Hawaiian ethnobotany, economic plants, and the Hawaiian environment. Special workshops are also offered upon request. Teachers and students are encouraged to volunteer for specific projects during which they can learn special skills. An art/science integrated program for K-2 is now in place. Teachers are asked to undergo training as designated guides. It is hoped this program will be expanded to include older students.
The arboretum offers on-site educational and outreach programs that provide the community with quality instruction in horticulture, cooking, and arts and crafts.
To combine learning with fun, the arboretum also schedules several hikes and outings throughout the year. Contact the arboretum for the latest schedule of classes, workshops, and outings.
Special Events:
Lyon Arboretum and Lyon Arboretum Association sponsor several special events each year. These include:
1088 Bishop Street, Suite 808
Honolulu, HI 96813
Hours of Operation:
8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mon.-Fri.
Admission:
None
Contact:
Sylvianne Yee, Paradise Pursuits Coordinator
Tel: (808) 373-3062
Description:
For more than 50 years, the Hawaii Audubon Society has sought protection for Hawaiiís native flora and fauna. Its new slogan, "Hawaii Audubon ... weíre not just for the birds anymore!," attaches a broader perspective to the Audubon name and the need to preserve not just a particular species but the entire ecosystem. It is the goal of the Hawaii Audubon Society to make all people understand that the health and survival of Hawaiiís native species is an indication of the health and survival of our Hawaiian home.
Educational Programs:
The Hawaii Audubon Society conducts its "Paradise Pursuits" Environmental Quiz Program to increase awareness of the needs of Hawaiiís unique ecosystems and to encourage environmentally responsible choices. The program engages high school students in the study of Hawaiiís environment through participation in a stimulating, challenging quiz game.
Target age group: grades 9-12.
Hawaii Childrenís Discovery Center
Ward Warehouse, Building D, 2nd Floor
1050 Ala Moana Boulevard, #A27
Honolulu, HI 96814
Hours of Operation:
Currently closed for construction, will re-open in the Fall of 1998.
Admission:
N/A
Contact:
Loretta Yajima, President and CEO
Tel: (808) 592-5437
Fax: (808) 592-5433
e-mail: lyajima@pixi.com
Description:
The Childrenís Discovery Center provides youngsters with a "window to the world" that allows them to experience, explore, investigate, and make discoveries about the world that in ways before imaginable. Using the latest in computer technology, children and adults alike will be able to actively participate in discovery experiences through hands-on, interactive exhibits...a stimulating, educational experience for the young and "young at heart!"
The former Kewalo Incinerator building is being renovated and a 20,000-square-foot addition is being built as the permanent home for the Childrenís Discovery Center. The new center will be the first facility to open as part of the Kakaako Waterfront Redevelopment Master Plan. Formerly known as the Hawaii Childrenís Museum, the Childrenís Discovery Center will become "Hawaiiís Rainbow Connection to the World."
Educational Programs:
There are approximately 260,000 school-aged children in Hawaii. Children from preschool through high school will be the primary target audience for the new facility although thousands of additional youngsters in this age group visit the Hawaiian Islands each year with their families and comprise another audience for the center.
2131 Makiki Heights Drive
Honolulu, HI 96822
Hours of Operation:
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily
Admission:
Varies
Contact:
Diana King, Education Director
Tel: (808) 955-0100
Fax: (808) 955-0116
Description:
The mission of the Hawaii Nature Center is to foster awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaii and to encourage wise stewardship of the Hawaiian Islands in the future. Its primary purpose is to provide heart-touching, hands-on environmental-education field experiences to school children, families, and the general public.
Since its modest beginnings in 1981, the Center has served more than 500,000 children and adults on Oahu and Maui. More than 20,000 school children attend all-day programs each year. Utilizing a wide variety of Hawaiian ecosystems, the Hawaii Nature Center helps connect children to nature and provides positive experiences that establish a lifelong love of the environment.
Educational Programs:
School programs:
2700 Waialae Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96826-1899
Hours of Operation:
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon.-Fri. (Educational Department)
Admission:
None
Contact:
Darla DeVille, Administrator of Humane Education
Tel: (808) 946-2187, ext. 214
Fax: (808) 955-6034
Description:
The mission of the Hawaiian Humane Society is to prevent cruelty to animals, to promote the humane treatment of animals, and to perpetuate the bond between humans and animals. The Hawaiian Humane Society strives to accomplish its mission through education, legislation, and sterilization. Humane education helps children develop a sense of justice, compassion, and respect for all living things. The society promotes responsible pet ownership and a community that embraces humane values.
Educational Programs:
Shelter Educational Experience (SEE) School Visitations
P.O.Box 698
Kaneohe, HI 96744
Hours of Operation:
N/A
Admission:
None
Contact:
Friends of Heíeia
Tel: (808) 247-3156
Description:
Heeia State Park seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and culturalresources. The major themes of the park are the islandsí marine environment and the ahupuaa concept.
Heritage Program:
This program interprets the parkís natural and cultural areas in an effort to develop public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
151 Kapahulu Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
Hours of Operation:
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Admission:
Kamaaina Adult: $4
Other adults: $6
Children (6-12): $1
Children 5 and under: Free
Contact:
Ken R. Redman, Zoo Director
Tel: (808) 971-7175
Fax: (808) 971-7173
Description:
The mission of the Honolulu Zoo is to foster an appreciation of the living world, with an emphasis on tropical ecosystems, by serving as a center for environmental education, biological study, and recreation and conservation activities.
The purpose of the Education Branch is to create and implement diverse educational programs in keeping with the zooís mission. Goals fall into four broad categories:
Summer Explorers
45-680 Luluki Road
Kaneohe, HI 96744
Hours of Operation:
Garden: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, except Christmas and New Yearís Day
Visitor center: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat.
Admission:
None, room rental fees apply for non-profit organizations using meeting rooms.
Contact:
Olive Vanselow, Recreational Specialist
Tel: (808) 233-7323
Fax: (808) 247-3199
Description:
Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden is one of five botanical gardens operated by the City and County of Honolulu through the Honolulu Botanical Gardens system. Free public and group interpretive programs are offered to the public on a scheduled basis.
Facilities include 400 acres, a flood control lake, collections of tropical plants from the tropics of the world, meeting rooms, art gallery, and botanical library.
Educational Programs:
General-public nature walks on weekends and holidays are offered free of charge to all ages.
Special events such as Earth Day and Arbor Day programs are offered on a pre-scheduled basis. The general public is invited.
Group interpretive programs that focus on tropical plant collections are offered to groups on a pre-arranged basis. Outdoor walking programs are supplemented by educational worksheets and botanical/nature/gardening videos on site. Age range: pre-school to senior citizen.
Maui
Hours of Operation:
7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
Admission:
None
Contact:
Maui State Parks
Tel: (808) 984-8109
Description:
Iao Valley State Park seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and cultural features. The major theme of the park is Hawaiian settlement, subsistence, and geology.
Heritage Program:
This program interprets the natural and cultural areas to develop public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
Friends of Iolani Palace
P.O. Box 2259
Honolulu, HI 96804
Hours of Operation:
9 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Tues.
9 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Wed.-Sat.
Admission:
Adults: $8
Children (5-12): $2
Children 5 and under: not admitted School tours (students and teachers): $2
Contact:
Katherine Medeiros, School Outreach Coordinator
Tel: (808) 522-0829
Fax: (808) 532-1051
Description:
Friends of Iolani Palace, a non-profit citizensí organization, was established in 1966 to encourage the preservation and restoration of Iolani Palace.
For more than 30 years, the Friends of Iolani Palace have been working consistently to search for and acquire original Iolani Palace artifacts and furnishings from all over the world. The organization has carefully preserved and guarded this remarkable legacy, thereby enabling the presentation of commemorative and educational events, to both the public and private schools.
Educational Programs:
A curriculum guide has been developed for the upper-elementary levels, with suggested classroom activities before and after field trips. The School Outreach Coordinator also schedules school pre-visits for upper-elementary classes. At these sessions, students are introduced to historic preservation in the context of Hawaiian cultural values such as malama (stewardship) and hoihi (to treat with respect).
For high school students, a 20-minute video, "A Kingís Noble Vision," is available for use in the classroom.
52-222 Kamehameha Highway
Hauula, HI 96717
Hours of Operation:
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat.
Admission:
All programs require reservations. A minimal fee of $2 will be charged.
Contact:
Kahana Valley State Park
Tel: (808) 237-8858
Description:
Kahana Valley State Park seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and cultural features. The major theme of the park is Hawaiian culture and the ahupuaa concept (a land division extending from the uplands to the sea).
Heritage Program:
This program interprets the natural and cultural areas of the park in order to develop a keener public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
Hanapepe, Kauai
Hours of Operation:
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Admission:
None. Contact museum for guided group tours and volunteer activities
Contact:
Kokee Museum
Tel: (808) 335-9975
Description:
Kokee State Park seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and cultural features. The major theme of the park is the environment, with a focus on forests, plants, climate, and geology.
Heritage Program:
This program interprets the natural and cultural areas to develop a keener public awareness, appreciation and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
49-560 Kamehameha Highway
Kaíaíawa, HI 96730
Hours of Operation:
7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily
Admission:
Guided and walking tours: $3.50
Hands-on programs for teens: $7.50
Contact:
Keoni Pappas, Education Department Supervisor
Tel: (808) 237-8515 ext. 230
Fax: (808) 237-8925
Description:
Kualoa Ranch offers an opportunity for schools and youth groups to experience the wonders and beauty of a working diversified cattle ranch in the historically rich ahupuaa of Kualoa, Hakipuu and Kaaawa.
Ranch programs and staff is dedicated to educating youngsters while building environmental awareness and self-esteem. Members of scouting and other organizations can earn merit badges in the areas of aquaculture, horsemanship, overnight camping, and Hawaiiana.
Educational Programs:
Lapakahi State Historical Park
North Kohala, HI
Hours of Operation:
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat.
Admission:
None
Contact:
Marlenajon Stafford
Tel: (808) 889-5566
Description:
Lapakahi State Historical Park seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and cultural features. The major theme of the park is pre-contact Hawaiian settlement and subsistence.
Heritage Program:
This program interprets the natural and cultural areas of the park in order to develop public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
Makiki Valley State Recreation Area
C/O: Hawaii Nature Center
Honolulu, HI
Hours of Operation:
N/A
Admission:
Fees charged for some programs
Reservations required for all programs
Contact:
Hawaii Nature Center
Tel: (808) 955-0100
Description:
Makiki Valley State Recreation Area seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and cultural features. The major theme of the park is the environment, with a focus on streams, plants, insects, and geology.
Heritage Program:
This program interprets natural and cultural areas in order to develop public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
North Kohala, HI
Hours of Operation:
N/A
Admission:
None
Contact:
Momi Lum
Mookini Luakini Foundation
Description:
Mookini Heiau seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and cultural features. The major theme of the park is pre-contact Hawaiian religion.
Heritage Program:
This program interprets natural and cultural areas of the heiau in order to develop public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
Kauaíi
Hours of Operation:
700 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Admission:
None
Contact:
Kauai State Parks
Tel: (808) 274-3444
Description:
Na Pali Coast State Park seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and cultural features. The major theme of the park is Hawaiian settlement and the environment.
Heritage Program:
This program interprets the natural and cultural areas of the park in order to develop public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
Ocean Safety Division, City and County of Honolulu
3823 Leahi Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
http://www.aloha.com/~lifeguards/
Hours of Operation:
Office: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Beach towers: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Admission:
None
Contact:
Ralph Goto, Administrator
Tel: (808) 922-3888
Fax: (808) 299-0411
e-mail: lifeguards@aloha.com
Description:
The Ocean Safety Division, City and County of Honolulu, provides ocean lifeguard services at city beach parks and employs 90 full-time and 80 to 100 part-time water safety officers.
Educational Programs:
A Junior Lifeguard Program is offered for young people ages 12-17. One-week sessions teach ocean safety and surf survival skills, basic rescue techniques, CPR, and first aid. Free. Summer months only.
Presentations and demonstrations are offered on an ongoing basis for community events, youth, military, and school-group activities; health fairs; career days and similar events. Participation is based on availability and schedules of trained personnel.
41-202 Kalanianaole Highway
Makapuu, HI 96795
Hours of Operation:
9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
School groups with reservations may enter at 9 a.m.
Admission:
Education group rates offered. Call the Education Center for applicable rates.
Contact:
Mark Rausch, Director of Education
Tel: (808) 259-6476 or 259-7933
Fax: (808) 259-7373
Description:
Sea Life Park Hawaii, first openend in 1964, is an oceanarium located on Oahuís windward side. It seeks to entertain and educate the public about the mysteries of the sea.
The park offers four main water shows (Hawaiian Reef Tank, Hawaii Ocean Theater, Kolohe Kai, and Whalerís Cove), several live exhibits, informational lectures, food service, and retail areas. "Splash University," an opportunity to interact with bottlenose dolphins opened in June 1996. Call the park for more information.
Educational Programs:
Education groups may visit the park on their own, or they can sign up for a presentation covering one of the parkís many marine animals.
The Na Keiki O Ke Kai program teaches preschool and kindergarten students basic facts about some of the animals found at the park. It runs on Wednesdays from October through the last day of school (early June).
The Legends of the Sea Program allows first, second, and third grade students to learn about whales or sea turtles and to watch a play that reinforces important facts about the animals. Fourth through sixth grade students watch two presentations about marine animals. Depending on the grade level, presentations are given on either Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
The Education Center can set up presentations for students in other grades upon request. Call them for more information.
For adults who would like to gain experience working at the park, there are two volunteer programs. The Volunteer Docent Program prepares volunteers to teach school children who visit the park. The Volunteer Service Program allows adults (15 years and older) to work in the Reef Life Department. Hands-on jobs, such as preparing food for fish and sea turtles and doing basic chores like cleaning windows, and talking with park visitors about marine invertebrates are all included in the experience. Call the Education Center for more information about the two volunteer programs.
The Education Center can tailor presentations to specific topics requested by teachers. Call for more information.
P.O. Box 2577
Honolulu, HI 96893
http://www.sierraclub.org/chapters/hi/
Hours of Operation:
N/A
Admission:
N/A
Contact:
David Kimo, Director
Tel: (808) 538-6616
Fax: (808) 537-9019
Description:
The Sierra Club, Hawaii Chapter, supports actions that in part:
Hikes and Field Trips
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
11 Arizona Memorial Drive
Honolulu, HI 96818-3145
Hours of Operation:
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Last tour is at 4:30 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Yearís Day
Admission:
Regular: $8
Senior citizens/Hawaii residents/ military: $6
Grades K-12 must make reservations in advance to receive special rates ($4 per accompanying adult, $2 per student)
Contact:
Museum Assistant
Tel: (808) 423-1341 ext. 322
Fax: (808) 422-5201
e-mail: bowfin@aloha.net
Description:
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is home to the historic World War II submarine USS Bowfin (SS-287), known as the "Pearl Harbor Avenger." School groups (ages four and above) can go on board the USS Bowfin and imagine life aboard a submarine during W.W.II. A Museum tour also shares fascinating submarine history including W.W.II to the nuclear era.
The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Parkís mission is to preserve the USS Bowfin and share the intriguing history of submarines with future generations.
Educational Programs:
No formal school program is offered at this time. However, school groups can receive a special discounted price if they book a reservation in advance. When they call to confirm this reservation they will be mailed an information packet that will help teachers create a lesson plan prior to the groupís visit to the submarine and museum.
1396 California Avenue
Wahiawa, HI
Hours of Operation:
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, except Christmas and New Yearís Day
Admission:
None
Contact:
Director
Tel: (808) 621-7321
Description:
The mission of the Wahiawa Botanical Garden is to plan, develop, curate, maintain, and study documented collections of tropical plants in an aesthetic setting, for the purposes of conservation, botany, horticulture, education, and passive recreation.
Educational Programs:
Guided tours available; group tours are available upon request and are conducted by volunteer docents. A gardening class available on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. provides opportunities to learn a variety of horticulture techniques from the staff.
Waikiki Aquarium, University of Hawaii
2777 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
http://www.mic.Hawaii.edu/aquarium
Hours of Operation:
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except Christmas
Admission:
General admission: $6
Kamaaina, senior citizens, and military: $4
Juniors (13-17): $2.50
Children under 12: free
Contact:
Dr. Carol Hopper, Director of Education
Dr. Bruce Carlson, Director
Tel: (808) 923-9741
Fax: (808) 923-1771
e-mail: carlson@soest.Hawaii.edu
Description:
The mission of the Waikiki Aquarium is "to help people of all ages to understand, love, care for, and work to protect the life of the ocean through educational and entertaining experiences, research, and conservation."
The Waikiki Aquarium was founded in 1904 and is administered by the University of Hawaii. Located at the foot of Diamond Head in Kapiolani Park, Waikiki, the aquarium is a showcase for Hawaiian marine life and aquatic habitats, as well as South Pacific marine life. The exhibits are arranged to help people understand the origins, special adaptations, and diversity of Hawaiian marine life, as well as the need for conservation. Hawaiian monk seals, mahimahi, blacktip reef sharks, living corals, and chambered nautilus are among the many special exhibits. An extensive education program is closely tied to the exhibits and reaches more than 30,000 students annually. Research programs range from tiger-shark life history to nautilus embryology and coral culture.
Educational Programs:
The goal of the Waikiki Aquariumís education programs is to help people become self-aware, independent, and lifelong learners, and to help them develop the skills and sensitivity to see connections between themselves and the natural world. The two primary foci are conservation education and science literacy. Programs include:
School Support Program
Kapaa, Kauai
Hours of Operation:
N/A
Admission:
None
Contact:
Linda Warriner, Na Kahu Hikinaakala
Tel: (808) 822-4481
Description:
Wailua State Park seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for public enjoyment and enrichment through preservation, protection, and development of natural and cultural features. Hawaiian settlement/ subsistence is the major theme at the park.
Heritage Program:
This program interprets the natural and cultural areas of the park in order to develop public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaiiís unique natural resources.
Waimea Valley, Home of Waimea Falls Park
54-864 Kamehameha Highway
Haleiwa, HI 96712
Hours of Operation:
General admission: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
School groups: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Admission:
Adults: $12
Children (4-12): $6
Contact:
Lisa Priester, Education Coordinator
Tel: (808) 638-8511
Fax: (808) 638-7900
e-mail: waimeaf@aloha.net
Description:
Waimea Valleyís Education Department teaches visitors about Waimeaís history, Hawaiiís heritage and culture, the parkís world renowned plant collections, and relevant environmental issues.
The objective of the park is to inspire aloha and stewardship for the islandís people and land through knowledge (manao).
Educational Programs:
Preschool: Hawaiiana, environmental education and storytelling are offered.
Grade 2: Education stations provide information on butterflies, stream fish, tadpoles and frogs, Hawaiiís bird life, and Hawaiian games. Teachers may choose activities, time permitting.
Grades 3-12: Hoike educational walking tours provide information about the parkís Hawaiian ecosystem environmental, botanical. Teachers select subjects and tours from a packet sent to them, and they can also plan Hawaiian games.
College: The Education Department works with instructors to create a Hoike journey for students utilizing the parkís resources.
The park is starting a docent volunteer program. Inquiries are welcome.
YMCA of Honolulu - Leeward Branch
94-366 Pupupani Street, Suite 209
Waipahu, HI 96797
Hours of Operation:
7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri.
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sat.
Admission:
$5 annual YMCA membership, plus Program Service fee
Contact:
Robert Stivers, Executive Director
Tel: (808) 671-6495
Fax: (808) 671-7985
Description:
The YMCA of Honolulu-Leeward Branch services Oahu communities from Waipahu to Ewa Beach, and Kapolei to Makakilo. The primary purpose of the YMCA is "to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all."
Educational Programs:
The YMCA offers a variety of programs for children and teens from ages 6 to 18. Childcare programs include "A Plus After School" at nine Leeward Oahu schoolsóBarbers Point, Ewa, Iroquois Point, Honowai, Holomua (new in the Fall of 1996) Kaleiopuu, Kapolei, Pohakea, and Waipahu Elementary schools. Other programs include "Before School," "Summer Fun," "After Summer School" and "Holiday Fun" as well as Winter and Spring programs during the year. These programs include homework assistance, arts and crafts, environmental education, dance, group games, fitness, sports, and recreation.
Teens are provided with after school and weekend activities including homework assistance, community service, leadership development, environmental education, sports, recreation, arts and crafts, hiking, and camping.
69-385 Farrington Highway
Waiulua, HI 96791
Hours of Operation:
8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. daily
Admission:
Varies depending on group size and facilities use.
Contact:
Justin Culley, Outdoor Education Coordinator
Tel: (808) 637-4615
Fax: (808) 637-8874
e-mail: cebs22@aol.com
Description:
YMCA Camp H.R. Erdman is a full service camping facility, offering accommodations and meals for groups of up to 300 people. Programs are open to families, schools, churches, organizations, and individuals and are designed to develop positive social values and leadership among the young people of Hawaii. The campís staff is committed to cooperating with the Department of Education, Land and Natural Resources, and others to provide programs that promote an appreciation and concern for Hawaiiís environment.
Educational Programs:
Outdoor Education Program
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