Last Friday, July 25, 2025, ISLAND PACIFIC ACADEMY’s Admissions team hosted a joyful evening to welcome new families into the IPA ‘ohana at the 2025 New Parent & Guardian Reception. The event offered incoming parents a chance to build community, connect with one another, and meet the school leaders who will help guide their children’s journey at IPA.
A new feature of this year’s reception was seating arranged by grade level, making it easy for parents to spark instant connections with others whose children will be in the same class. Conversations flowed, laughter echoed, and the sense of camaraderie was unmistakable.
Over delicious bento dinners, parents heard welcoming remarks from Head of School Gerald Teramae, Elementary Principal Sa’o Faulkner, Secondary Principal Steve Ross, Advancement Director Katherine Jones, Auxiliary Programs Director Katie Metz, and members of the IPAPA, IPA’s Parent/Teacher Association, executive board.
“This is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Jennifer Banquil, Director of Admissions. “It’s exciting to see families who we’ve gotten to know during the admissions process now beginning to form relationships with one another. It really feels like the start of something special.”
The evening wrapped up with warm conversation, shared stories, and new friendships – a perfect beginning to a promising school year. E komo mai to all our new Navigator families!
