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Siera Alaibilla-Lagundino Janezka Esposo Vanessa Visitacion Anagen Manipon Hamada Maile Rose Padre Kyler Tom Hiʻilani  Cremer Katelyn-Joy Erese Miulana Asai

Welcome to the Kīpaipai  Program website! 

APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2026 ARE OPEN! 
 

The first year of college is critical because it forms a foundation for each student's success. At ������ý‘i Community College, we help students by providing a variety of support services and resources in preparation for their first year. The Kīpaipai Program ensures that every student has the support needed to have an "amazing" first year at college.
"Kīpaipai " means: to encourage and inspire. The Kīpaipai  Program helps students succeed academically and personally through a comprehensive set of activities, courses and one-on-one support. Nationwide studies have shown that students who participate in first-year experience programs have a higher grade point average, are more likely to complete their degree program, and are more likely to take advantage of campus resources. 

Eligibility

1. ������ý‘i Community College students enrolling in college for the first time in Fall 2026*
2. Must be majoring in a degree-seeking program
3. Must have earned high school diploma, GED, or HI State-recognized equivalent by August  1, 2026

Note:

• Previous participation in Running Start, Early College, or Jump Start may apply.
• Students in the Waiʻaleʻale Project will receive support directly from the Waiʻaleʻale Program and are, therefore, not eligible for the Kīpaipai Program. 

Students who participate in The Kīpaipai Program will receive

$350 scholarship for three semesters: 
Students who meet Kīpaipai requirements receive at least $350 at the beginning of each semester to use for tuition and fees, books, or supplies. The Scholarship includes attending a free IS 110 in the Fall Semester and 111 in Spring, an individualized Student Success Plan, and more!  Students may receive the scholarship if they meet "all" of the requirements listed below for up to three consecutive semesters ($1,050 total).

Student Success Navigator
The Student Success Navigator will be in contact with participants and their instructors throughout the school year to provide support, encouragement, and accountability.

Peer Mentor Support 
We have an "awesome" team of second and third year students who will help you navigate your first year at ������ý‘i Community College. 

Requirements of Kīpaipai Program Participants

To apply for the Kīpaipai Program, complete the first four requirements listed below

1. Complete the
2. Attend New Student Kīpaipai Orientation 
3. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually
   • Maintain contact with Kīpaipai Program staff regarding progress in classes and instructor feedback 
   • Participate in a Mid-Term Progress Check each semester
   • Enroll in IS110 Fall 2026 and IS111 Spring 2027
   • Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress each semester
4. Additional Requirements as follows:
   • Participate in Summer Success Camp
   • Participate in Semester Workshops and Kuleana Activities

Please note that you will be notified via mail if/when you are accepted into the program. Space is limited, and available on a first come, first serve basis. 

Mid-Term Progress Checks

Sometimes it's helpful to take a few moments to evaluate our current situation, then make plans to move forward.

Mid-Term Progress Checks allow students to get an accurate gauge of their current grade, and to receive advice on how to improve the grade before the semester ends. During this meeting, plans for the remaining half of the semester are discussed. Appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis, and typically take 30-40 minutes.  In the rare event that the student will not be able to raise the grade in time, he or she will have time to drop the class.