WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawaii - In the spirit of community partnership, the Army School Partnership Program encourages a voluntary partnership between the Hawaii Department of Education and Army units to enhance the educational experience of the children of Hawaii.
The program encourages Soldiers to actively volunteer and assist students by tutoring, participating in reading programs, mentoring, assisting in career development, holding motivation classes and providing recognition and rewards for student achievements.
Soldiers and DoE also partner up for successful physical labor projects.
Recently, Soldiers painted parking lot lines at Solomon Elementary School, renovated the press box at the Leilehua High School football stadium and set up the computer lab at Wheeler Elementary School.
Over the years and as a result of this partnership, many strong bonds have emerged, and school officials have been very appreciative of the time and energy provided by our Soldiers.
Recently, in a cordial effort to show appreciation for this partnership with the Army, the members of the North Complex Central District schools hosted a "meet-and-greet" reception at the Leilehua H.S. Library.
DoE officials expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with the Army, and encouraged ongoing dialogue, communication and fellowship on a regular basis. The Army, in turn, has a vested interest in supporting the North Complex Central District schools, as many of our students from Schofield Barracks and Wheeler Army Airfield attend the schools in this district.
Brig. Gen. Paul Lacamera, deputy commanding general of operations, and Col. Bradley Becker, deputy commanding general of support, both from 25th Infantry Division, represented the Army at the meeting. Both expressed their gratitude for working with the DoE and the commitment to support the schools, striving for better opportunities for all students to learn.
The event at the North Complex Central District is a good example of accomplishments the program is providing to our neighboring schools. We must persevere to maintain this high level of involvement at other school districts on the North Shore and Leeward Coast that the SPP supports.
Kudos to all who are connected and participating in this outstanding community-focused program.
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