More of Your FAQ
Here, a few more of your pressing questions answered. If you have a question of your own, we would love to chat with you. Find us on Instagram!
What is BPL?
Big Picture Learning (BPL) is an internationally recognized educational nonprofit that supports student-led schools through personalized and real-world learning tied to students’ interests and passions. BPL is currently working with our team to develop a school structure and culture that utilizes deeper learning competencies – ʻāina-based learning, internship opportunities, collaborative group work, and alternative assessments. See more on BPL and its work with Namahana here.
How is a charter school different from other types of schools?
The Hawaiʻi State Public Charter School Commission defines a charter school as a tuition-free public school operating under a contract with the State Public Charter School Commission. While charter schools must follow federal laws and state standards for public schools, they have flexibility with curriculum, scheduling, and direct management of resources, which allows for innovation. Hawaiʻi public charter school teachers are covered by the Hawaiʻi statewide collective bargaining agreement.
While charter schools receive a per-student allocation from the state (just like a public school), they must cover most of their infrastructure and operational costs. Namahana needs the community’s support as it prepares to break ground on a dedicated campus in Kīlauea.
