HTA an innovative public charter school
The Hawaii Technology Academy (HTA), an innovative public charter school, is announcing that it will expand to the islands of Kauai, Maui and Hawaii this upcoming school year. Students in grades K-11 who reside on the islands will now be eligible to enroll in the school.
HTA uses a “hybrid” model of schooling that combines classroom and virtual learning programs that allows students to receive individualized programs using an engaging web based curriculum and interactive technology.
This year marks the second year of operation for HTA. In April 2008, the Hawaii Charter School Review Panel approved HTA for students who live on Oahu for the 2008-2009 school year.
“The first initial year has been a positive experience for many Oahu families and we’re excited the school will now be available to students on Kauai,” said Jeffrey Piontek, HTA Head of School.
Already over 900 students have applied for the 500 slots available for the upcoming school year. There will be 80 students on Kauai this year, a HTA Learning Center will be located in the Princeville area. There will also be two virtual pilot programs: with 20 students on islands of Maui and the Big Island.
Students in HTA learn outside a traditional school building but use the Internet to access their lessons and stay connected to their teachers and schoolmates. Hawaii-certified teachers work in close partnership with parents to focus on the individual needs of every child. Teachers assign lessons and provide instruction and guidance, while parents help support and encourage students as they progress through their lessons. Families and teachers interact via email, web-based classrooms, online discussions, and phone.
Although students have greater flexibility to learn at their own pace they are still required to meet accountability standards, including academic and attendance requirements, and must participate in state assessments in a proctored setting.
The school will use a combination of course offerings developed in Hawaii and curriculum supplied by K12, a leading provider of proprietary curriculum and K-12 online school programs in the U.S.
Louis Saint-Cyr, Chair of the Hawaii Technology Academy Local School Board said, “It is with great enthusiasm that the HTA Local School Board announces the expansion for the 2009-2010 school year. It’s a privilege to serve the children of Hawaii and we believe our school is helping to meet the diverse needs of families in our state.”
Written by:
Jeff Piontek, Head of School 
