Maui Middle School Interns Graduate From Park Program

By Maui Now Staff

Eight middle school students on Maui graduated from Haleakalā National Park’s Kupukupu ʻĀina internship program during a ceremony held over the weekend.

The students worked over their spring break to remove more than 600 invasive plants and assist park staff with trail maintenance.

The internship also provided students with an opportunity to explore the diverse habitats of Haleakalā by hiking several trails where they helped park resource managers work with endangered species.

Interns also learned about national park law enforcement and practiced emergency medical skills via mock scenarios.

As part of the program, students received job and career counseling through workshops offered by staff from the Maui County Human Resources office and the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College’s CareerLink office.

Funding for the program was provided by non-profit partners Hauʻoli Mau Loa Foundation, Tri-Isle Resource Conservation & Development Council, and the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association.

MS interns with Ranger Katelyn Thomson. Photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

Scenic view from wilderness hike. Photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

Interns at park entrance sign. Photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

Wilderness hike. Photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

Wilderness hike. Photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

Wilderness hike. Photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

Graduation photo, left to right: Lilia, David, Arnubi, Aidan, Ho’i, Justine, Mahina, Katelynne, Intern Program Coordinator Serena Kaldi and Middle School Program Assistant Lily. Photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.