WAILUKU, Hawai‘i—The Maui County Council announced the student winners of the ‘Imi Pono Challenge at today’s council meeting.
The ‘Imi Pono Challenge for middle school and high school students was initiated by the Council to harness bold and innovative ideas for bolstering Maui County’s economy. Out of 175 entries from students across the county, 40 semi-finalists were judged by a diverse panel of industry, community and entrepreneurial leaders.
The winners in the middle school category are as follows:
- Wyatt Van Der Lee, Grade 6, Iao Intermediate School (1st Place) for his project titled “Maui (Vertical) Greenhouses”
- Xavier Katsuda, Grade 6, Iao Intermediate School (2nd Place) for his project titled “Sprinkley Sprinklers”
- Kiana Kahale and Evalani Keawekane, Grade 8, Kamehameha Schools Maui Middle School (3rd Place) for their project titled “Maoli Loa”
The winners in the high school category are as follows:
- Noelle Lo, Grade 11, Maui High School (1st Place) for her project titled “A Local Lens”
- Jacob Janikowski, Grade 10, Lanai High & Elementary School (2nd Place) for his project titled “Home Learning Desks”
- Michael de Haas, Grade 12, Kihei Charter School (3rd Place) for his project titled “Imi Pono Feeds Maui”
“The ‘Imi Pono Challenge gave us just a glimpse of the innovation and diligence of Maui County students and the teachers who guide and encourage them,” said Council Chair Alice Lee. “While there are many challenges ahead for our community, it’s inspiring to know our young people have what it takes to meet them.”
Information on the ‘Imi Pono Challenge and the winning projects can be found at MauiCounty.us/imipono.
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