Grounded in a deep cultural awareness, becoming a boarder at Lahainaluna High School is much more than being a part of a Boarding Program. It is an inheritance of belonging and ‘ohana that will live within them for a lifetime,” said Principal Jeri Dean.

LAHAINA — Lahainaluna High School has begun recruiting for its Boarding Department and is accepting applications for the 2021-22 school year through March 15.

Information on this unique and free educational opportunity is available at www.lahainalunahs.org (go to the “About” tab and then “Boarding Department”) or call the school office at 662-4000.

Principal Jeri Dean noted, “Founded in 1836, our Boarding Program possesses a long history of educating and serving students from across the state to international locations. We would like to welcome students interested in a Lahainaluna education and boarding life experience. We are seeking highly motivated and passionate students to join our boarding ‘ohana, whether you are a first of your family or a ‘legacy.’

“Lahainaluna’s rich culture and history continue to provide tradition and lifelong learning opportunities as our youth immerse themselves in their life as boarders as well as day school academic students. Taking advantage of the many community, club, athletic and work programs Lahainaluna offers, our boarders benefit from a life-charging opportunity that embeds self-discovery, self-reliance and independence.”

The Boarding Program is for young men and women in grades 9-12 who wish to gain an education as well as life experiences while living on campus at Lahainaluna.

Boarders are housed in two dormitories — one for males and one for females. To help offset the cost of their room and board, boarders engage in mandatory work experience in yard maintenance, the utility crew and in the garden, kitchen and dorms.

Objectives of the program include promoting student achievement by creating desirable work habits, wellness, self-sufficiency, self-discipline and an understanding and acceptance of responsibility in each boarder; creating an environment that will expand each boarder’s life experience academically, vocationally, socially and culturally; and building leadership and resiliency skills.

According to the school, “The Boarding Program best serves students who are highly independent, reliable, responsible and motivated.”

Dean concluded, “Our Boarding Program boasts a commitment to our students and their development as leaders and self-sustaining contributors to society. Mentorship and guidance toward the achievement of their passion and full potential, while honoring the privilege and contribution to our program’s tradition and values, is our mission.”