Kawananakoa School AVID program

Longtime BOCA athlete, Brian Flatt, is a history teacher at Kawananakoa Middle School and is passionate about his students. He also works closely with the school’s AVID program (Advancement Via Individual Determination), a college readiness program designed to help students develop critical study skills, increasing their chances of being successful in college.

Some of Brian’s students might be the first in their family to go to college, so they need the encouragement and structure this program offers, including team-building activities, and field trips to college fairs and campuses. This Spring, Brian has organized a trip to the Big Island. Activities include ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, UH Hilo Campus Tour, Mokupapapa Discovery Center (squid dissection, aquariums, and other activities), Mauna Kea Visitors Center, and Kilauea’s Jagger Museum.

Brian reached out, and true to form, BOCA Hawaii and BOCA athletes responded. BOCA items were auctioned, and with minimal nudging, money was freely donated to help cover costs for students to participate on the trip. Some of these students have never been on a plane before, so this event represents a push towards an important learning curve for them.

It may only be a small gesture, but BOCA Hawaii owner, Hina, is proud of the graciousness of the athletes who rose to the occasion: “The support is a great example of what I want BOCA to be about: networking when it feels right, and being part of something bigger than ourselves.”