Waipahu High School

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Waipahu High School
Established 1938
Type Public secondary
Affiliation none
Grades 9–12
Location Waipahu, Hawaiʻi USA
District Hawaiʻi State Department of Education, Leeward District
Accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Campus Urban
Colors Navy blue and gold
Mascot Marauders
Yearbook Ka Mea Ohi (The Harvester)
Newspaper The Cane Tassel
Military JROTC
Vision "Waipahu High School's vision is to establish a comprehensive educational program that truly reflects the varied needs of all our students."
Distinctions First Official High School in Leeward District
Website www.waipahuhigh.k12.hi.us

Waipahu High School, or WHS, is located at 94-1211 Farrington Highway in Waipahu on the island of Oʻahu in the state of Hawaiʻi. Waipahu High School was founded in 1938 under the Session Laws of 1937 and Act 191 of 1938. The purpose of the school was to give students in ʻAiea, Pearl City, Waipahu, ʻEwa, Nānākuli, and Waiʻanae better educational opportunities. The first graduates of Waipahu High School were from the class of 1941. Mr. Clarence B. Dyson became principal in 1942. Mrs. Patricia Pedersen is currently the principal of the school.

[edit] Traditions

  • Arthur Awards: To many, Arthur Award Competition is the high point of the year. It promotes school unity and spirit among the students of Waipahu High School through interclass competition during Homecoming Week. Arthur Competition consists of the Arthur Award Rally, Tug-of-War, Blue/Gold Day, and Alma Mater competition.
  • Cane Knife: This is a traditional football rivalry between Waipahu and Campbell High Schools.
  • Career Day: The primary purpose of Career Day is to introduce students to the many vocational opportunities available in the world today. This is done through presentation, speakers and off-campus visits. Career Day is scheduled at varying times during the school year.
  • May Day: Traditionally held in late April or early May, May Day involves the election of a Hawaiian and ethnic court made up of Waipahu High students and includes Polynesian cultural dances. May Day is held during even-numbered years alternating with May Fair.
  • May Fair: The "Celebration of Life" has been held at Waipahu High since 1970 and is held on odd-numbered years. This is a day of entertainment, assemblies, and trade fairs. School recognized clubs are invited to open booths and most do. Various school approved ethnic clubs participate in May Fair through cultural presentations, demonstrations, as well as food booths. Items sold range from teri chicken plates to personalized name tags.
  • New Year's Ball: Scheduled during the winter season, this dance is open to all interested Waipahu High students. It is non-floral, informal attire, originally intended to provide an economical social gathering.

[edit] Alma Mater

Midst the waving tassels stands Waipahu High
Breezes from the mountains sweep across the sky
Let us pledge our Love to Alma Mater
Keep thy precepts without fail
In loving praise, our voices raise
Waipahu, our high school
Our Alma Mater, Hail
All Hail Waipahu, Hail Waipahu
Hail, Hail, Hail
Tranquil lies Pearl Harbor placid in repose
Fields are rich and fertile where the tall cane grows
Let us offer thanks to Alma Mater
Cherish well thy honored name
From far and near, our voices cheer
Waipahu, our high school
Long will live thy fame.

[edit] Trivia

The name of the school mascot originally referred to a B-26 Marauder bomber that crashed on campus during World War II. The mascot has since evolved to refer to pirates.