August, 24, 2020
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Our school, like many other schools in the DOE, chose to implement an online program called
Acellus Learning Accelerator for the students who opted into our 100% Distance Learning
Option (DLO). Over the weekend, parents voiced several concerns about the appropriateness
and rigor of the curriculum within Acellus. In light of the numerous concerns, Hickam Elementary
has decided to terminate the use of Acellus.
Parents and/or guardians of students who opted into the 100% distance learning program will
receive communication within the next few days with details about the option to either re-enroll
their child(ren) back into our school’s existing blended model or about how we will continue our
DLO at Hickam. Please note, per Superintendent Kishimoto, from August 24-September 11, all
of our students are currently on a full distance learning schedule.
The impacts surrounding COVID-19 created numerous challenges as we opened up our school
year. We remain committed to providing a quality education for all of our students while keeping
health and safety as our top priority with each decision we make. We appreciate your
understanding and flexibility as we navigate the complexities of this situation. As we work in the
best interest of our students, we ask for your continued partnership.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 808-307-4600. You may also email
us at ​trisha.toyama-wakumoto@k12.hi.us​ or ​david.lane@k12.hi.us​.