15 Lāna‘i seniors recognized for earning college credits through dual credit program

A decade-long partnership between Pūlama Lāna‘i and the University of Hawai‘i Maui College has expanded access to college courses for students at Lāna‘i High and Elementary School, where 15 graduating seniors were recognized last week for completing dual credit programs this year.

Before the dual credit initiative launched in 2015, students on Lāna‘i had limited access to college-level coursework — a resource more readily available at larger schools across the state. Since then, more than 200 Lāna‘i students have taken at least one college class while in high school. Seven have earned associate degrees before graduation, and two juniors are on track to do the same by summer 2025.

“Providing our students with access to early college opportunities has changed the trajectory of postsecondary success for many Lāna‘i youth,” said Diane Preza, director of community development at Pūlama Lāna‘i. “We are proud to have supported this program over the past 10 years and to have witnessed so many students reach new heights.”

College-going rates among LHES seniors have grown from under 30% to more than 50% since the program began. In addition to increasing confidence and college readiness, the program has reduced the financial burden for families. Students who earn credits — and in some cases degrees — while in high school do so tuition-free, potentially saving thousands of dollars in future tuition and fees.

The savings are especially significant for rural families, who often face added expenses for travel, housing and relocation when pursuing higher education.

“This program gives students the chance to challenge themselves, discover new interests and build a foundation for future success,” said Pam Alconcel, associate professor at the Lāna‘i Education Center. “They leave high school not only with credits but with a deeper understanding of what college will require.”

State data shows that dual credit students are more likely to pursue and complete college degrees. According to the Hawai‘i Data eXchange Partnership, 88% of dual credit students enroll in college within six years of graduating high school, compared to 65% of their peers. They’re also nearly twice as likely to earn a degree during that time (56% vs. 30%).

“Taking college-level courses allowed me to explore fields that I’m interested in, complete a few prerequisite classes before starting at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa this fall, and it also showed me what the college experience could look like,” said graduating senior Sharmaine Elan. “I want to thank Pūlama Lāna‘i, University of Hawai‘i Maui College, LHES and all the individuals who make this program possible for Lāna‘i students.”