Student Council Earns National Gold Council of Excellence Award 2026

For its exemplary record of leadership, service, and activities that improve the school and community, the Highlands Intermediate Student Council has been recognized as a 2026 National Gold Council of Excellence by the National Association of Student Councils (NASC). The NASC program is supported by its parent organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

The 2025–2026 school year exceeded expectations because of the fun and memorable activities the Student Council provided for the nearly 900 students at Highlands Intermediate! The council was able to accomplish this by implementing the "Livin’ the Dream!!" theme to the maximum in all student activities and school events. Starting with the amazing Welcome Back Assembly 2025, the momentum continued through dozens of other themed events like Highlands Haunted House 13: "It!" and the recent Valentine's Dance 2026, "Love In The Multiverse." The Highlands Intermediate Student Council has now received this prestigious award for 12 consecutive years. This year's Student Council is the biggest in its history standing at 41members!

“The student council at Highlands Intermediate just pulled off something extraordinary,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “Their student-driven change has earned them national recognition as a National Gold Council of Excellence, proving that when young people are given the chance to lead, they turn their vision into real-world impact.”

“In my 19 years as Student Activities Coordinator at Highlands Intermediate, I find myself asking every year: ‘How can we possibly top this?’ Yet, somehow, this council didn't just meet the bar—they cleared it by leaps and bounds,” said Mr. White, Highlands Intermediate Student Activities Coordinator. “This has been, without a doubt, the most incredible school year yet. I am so proud of this group's tireless work ethic and their dedication to making our program the absolute best it could be for our students and community.”A student council must meet a variety of criteria to earn the National Gold Council of Excellence Award. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings, and a democratic election process, the councils must have demonstrated successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community.

Kona Low Relief Fundraiser Raised Nearly $3,000!

On Friday, April 17, the students of Highlands Intermediate School organized a campus-wide fundraiser to support those impacted by the recent Kona Low disaster. Developed within Mr. Eric White’s Leadership Class, our initial goal was to raise $2,000 for the Kona Low Relief (Stronger Hawai’i Fund) to assist our North Shore neighbors. The energy at the Campus Center was incredible as teams faced off in a "ferocious" Penny War. While the competition was fierce, the true winner was our community. We are thrilled to announce that we exceeded our expectations, raising a total of $2,723.14.We would like to extend a special mahalo to our community partner, Bank of Hawai'i – Pearlridge (VP Susan Marciel). They were instrumental in this endeavor, graciously handling the monumental task of counting every coin and cutting the final check for this donation.After more than 60 years of service to the Pearl City community, we remain committed to helping our islands persevere through challenging times. We are honored to entrust these funds to the Hawai’i Community Foundation to aid in the recovery efforts.

Intramural "May Madness" Basketball 2026

This year's Intramural Basketball at Highlands Intermediate School was nothing short of spectacular! The courts were abuzz with excitement as seven talented teams went head-to-head in an intense, energetic showdown that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. From the first whistle, it was clear that this tournament would be filled with fierce competition and incredible sportsmanship. Players showcased their skills, teamwork, and determination, making every game a thrilling display of talent and passion. The atmosphere was heated, with cheers echoing across the courts and spectators passionately supporting their favorite teams. After days of fierce battles, one name rose above the rest—Koa Kau Lio. Their perseverance, teamwork, and skill led them to victory in this exciting tournament. Congratulations to Koa Kau Lio for their well-deserved win and for demonstrating true sportsmanship throughout the competition. Thank you to all the players, coaches, and supporters who made Intramural Basketball 2026 an unforgettable event. We can't wait to see what next year’s tournament has in store! Ashlynn Peralta SG President

Pearl City High School Pep Rally 2026

Recently, Highlands Intermediate School hosted an energetic pep rally led by student-athletes from Pearl City High School. The event aimed to inspire and excite 8th graders as they prepare to transition to high school. The high school athletes showcased their school pride through dynamic cheers and motivational speeches, giving the younger students a firsthand glimpse into high school life. By highlighting opportunities for leadership, teamwork, and new experiences, the rally boosted school spirit and helped ease any nerves about the future. It was a fantastic event that fostered community and built anticipation for this next major step in the students' educational journey.  Alea Atud, 8th Grade Class Secretary

 

PCHES Reading Buddies Finale 2026

Every Tuesday, students from Highlands Intermediate School visit Pearl City Highlands Elementary School for the PCHES Reading Buddies program. Student Council Period 3 students spend time reading stories with the younger students, helping them build confidence and improve their reading skills in a fun and supportive environment. The program is more than just reading books. Students also play ice breakers, games, and other fun activities to help create friendships with their reading buddies. These weekly visits bring smiles, laughter, and excitement to both the intermediate and elementary students. For the finale of the program, everyone celebrated together by playing games, taking class pictures with their reading buddies, and eating popsicles. It was a fun way to end the year and make lasting memories with the students. Reading Buddies is a great way for students to connect with the community while making learning enjoyable for everyone involved. Shanell Saelua, Student Government Treasurer

Student Council Induction Ceremony 2026

The Highlands Intermediate School library transformed into a hub of leadership for our Student Government Induction Ceremony! Hosting the event right in our own library made the day feel incredibly special. The room was packed with proud families, staff, and distinguished guests, including local State Representatives, Senators, and Principals from across the Leeward District.  The energy stayed high all afternoon thanks to our fantastic emcees, Mr. White and our student government officers. They kept the crowd laughing and moving through the program smoothly. A major highlight was celebrating our dedicated two-year council members and presenting the official National Student Council Award certificates for national excellence.  It wouldn't be a Highlands event without some humor, so we wrapped up with the Student Council "Funny Awards." These lighthearted certificates highlighted the hilarious personalities and inside jokes of our council members. From the inspiring speeches to the final laughs, the entire ceremony was an absolute blast!  Sophia Marie Kim, Student Government Secretary