At Island Pacific Academy, opportunities to create, share ideas, and take risks aren’t reserved for special events, they’re part of the weekly rhythm of school life.
Much of that energy is driven by Auxiliary Programs Supervisor Zachary Faulkner, known to students as “Mr. Z,” who sees his role as something more than organizing activities.
“I see my role as creating spaces where students can explore who they are beyond academics,” he said. “Whether it’s through Weekly Challenges or our auxiliary programs, I try to design opportunities that invite students to take risks, be creative, and feel seen.”
At the elementary level, he believes those opportunities are especially important.
“If we only focus on traditional academics, we miss a huge opportunity to reach students who shine in other ways,” he said. “These ‘creative sparks’ give students permission to try, fail, and succeed in a low-pressure environment. That’s where confidence is built. It’s also where joy in learning is built, and that’s something that can stay with them for life.”
Over time, that intentional approach has made a visible impact.
“At the beginning, there was definitely hesitation,” he said. “Students weren’t always sure what was expected, and some were unsure about putting themselves out there. But over time, I’ve seen a shift. Students are more willing to participate, more excited to share, and more supportive of each other. There’s a growing sense of ownership, like this is their space, not just something being given to them.”
That culture of participation extended into the Young Artists “Perfect Pets” national drawing contest, which invited children ages 4–12 to illustrate their ideal pet for possible publication in a professionally produced anthology.
“When I came across the opportunity, I immediately saw it as a chance for students to create something with real-world impact,” Mr. Z said. “Not just something that stays in the classroom, but something that could go beyond it.”
Students responded with enthusiasm, especially once they realized their work could actually be published. In total, 46 students in grades K–5 had their artwork selected for inclusion in the Perfect Pets book—an impressive showing from the school’s young artists.
“What stood out most was the level of care students put into their work,” he said. “You could tell they weren’t just completing an assignment, they were creating something they were proud of. There was a lot of personality in each piece.”
One student’s work stood out even further.
Grade 4 student Adelaide ’34 had her artwork selected for the cover of the book, an honor that set her work apart.
“With Adelaide, what stood out was her consistency and attention to detail,” Mr. Z said. “She approached the challenge with focus and intention. It wasn’t just about finishing, it was about doing it well.”
For Mr. Z, the recognition is meaningful, but it also reinforces something bigger.
“It validates the idea that these opportunities matter,” he said. “What started as a simple challenge turned into something tangible — something students can hold, see, and be proud of. For me, it reinforces that when you give students authentic opportunities, they rise to the occasion in ways you might not expect.”
More importantly, it leaves a lasting impact on students themselves.
“I think the biggest takeaway is confidence,” he said. “Knowing that something you created was chosen, published, and even featured at that level builds a sense of belief in yourself.”
And when students believe in their ideas, they’re more willing to put them out into the world.
