“Our kuleana is to provide safe environments for our students to succeed in all their school endeavors, whether learning in a classroom, performing on stage or competing in athletics.”
HONOLULU (KHON2) — Officials from Kamehameha Schools are planning to review the incidents that led up to a student’s rescue at sea.
During an evening practice on Oct. 16, 17-year-old Kahiau Kawai was kayaking from the Ala Wai Channel to Diamond Head and back with his team before experiencing rough conditions.
After the team turned back, they noticed Kawai was missing and called first responders to initiate an overnight search.
He was located by a USCG aircraft shortly before 4:30 a.m. the next morning, clinging to his kayak.
According to Kawai, he lost his paddle just before he was reported missing. He is now recovering in the hospital with his mom by his side.
Kamehameha Schools is grateful for the many meʻe and pule that led to the safe return of Kahiau Kawai to his ʻohana. We are focused on Kahiau’s well-being and will continue to offer him and his family support as he recovers.
Kamehameha Schools in a statement
Kamehameha Schools added they will hold themselves accountable to take all necessary actions.
“We can and will do better.”
To help alleviate the emotional toll on students and faculty, additional school counselors and behavioral health specialists have been mobilized for support.
“Our kuleana is to provide safe environments for our students to succeed in all their school endeavors, whether learning in a classroom, performing on stage or competing in athletics.”
Additionally, athletic directors continue to support the Kamehameha Schools kayak team for student-athletes who still want to compete in Tuesday’s ILH race at the Ala Wai.