Learning Support
At ‘Iolani School, you are known, challenged and cared for.
Our learning support services exists to uphold this balance: to propel students to reach their potential while embracing them with support that is individualized, responsive and rooted in trust. In a rigorous academic environment, belonging and wellness are not optional, they are essential. When students feel seen, joyful, valued and equipped, they rise. We are committed to ensuring that every student has both the tools and the encouragement to thrive at the edge of learning, where challenge and care meet.
Poe-Vitullo Academic Resource Center
Upper school learning support
Mission
The Poe-Vitullo Academic Resource Center (ARC) in the Upper School exists to uphold the ‘Iolani's mission to develop well-rounded, liberally educated individuals prepared for higher education and responsible citizenship. We provide personalized, evidence-based academic support that nurtures students’ confidence, strengthens their capacity for inquiry, creativity, communication and problem-solving, and helps them access the full rigor of our exemplary college preparatory curriculum. In partnership with students, families and faculty, the ARC cultivates a culture of belonging and growth, empowering every learner with the tools to thrive intellectually, emotionally and morally at ʻIolani School and beyond.
Vision
To foster a community of confident, self-aware and resourceful lifelong learners, who are prepared not just for academic success, but for a meaningful life. We see a future where our students advocate for themselves, collaborate effectively and confidently navigate challenges.
Academic Resource Center at-a-glance
- Supports Upper School students (grades 7–12) in building confidence, independence and academic success
- Provides a student-centered space that fosters belonging, growth and resourcefulness
- Helps students strengthen transferable skills such as time management, organization, self-advocacy and study strategies
- Offers individualized and small-group support, including academic coaching and peer tutoring
- Staffed by two learning support specialists, one academic coach and trained peer tutors, who develop their own leadership skills
- Partners closely with teachers and counselors to ensure coordinated, holistic student support
- Collaborates with faculty to promote inclusive, evidence-based teaching practices
- Committed to helping all students meet challenges, refine strategies and reach their full potential
Lower School Learning Support
Mission
Our Lower School Learning Support program is committed to the academic growth, development and joy of every student. Our teachers are committed to the success of every student and are the first line of support, providing encouragement and support for their learning journeys.
Support-at-a-Glance
- Collaboration among the Lower School Math Coach, Reading Specialist and classroom teachers
- Targeted instruction and individualized support based on each student’s learning needs
- Focus on building strong foundational literacy and mathematics skills
- Developing students’ confidence and self-belief as capable learners
- Integration of formal and informal assessments to identify strengths and areas for growth
- Using assessment data to guide instructional decisions and determine additional support needs
- Emphasis on early intervention to address challenges proactively
- Promotion of curiosity, perseverance and a love of learning
- Ensuring every child feels seen, supported and inspired to reach full potential through continuous collaboration and tailored strategies
Meet our team
- Tyler Yamamoto: Lower School Math Coach, grades K-6
- Helen Edamura: Lower School Reading Specialist, grades K-6
- Jacquelin Sabin: Learning Support Specialist, grades 7-9
- Kelly Weaver: Academic Coach, grades 7-9
- Eleanor King: Learning Support Specialist, grades 10-12
- Omar López Thismón: Director of the Academic Resource Center
Contact us: arc@iolani.org
