Parker School students soon will be traveling in cooler, safer comfort thanks to a $100,000 donation from First Hawaiian Bank’s foundation.

What You Need To Know

  • The Waimea School serves some 330 students from Kindergarten to Grade 12

  • The 15-passenger Chevy Express 3500 buses purchased by Parker School are equipped with a range of features, including seat belts and air conditioning, which are not available on the school’s other buses

  • Since 2012, First Hawaiian Bank has invested more than $315,000 in Parker School through donations that primarily addressed Parker School capital and financial aid needs

 

The Waimea School, whichs serves some 330 students from Kindergarten to Grade 12, is using the donation to purchase a pair of new school buses.

“We are pleased to support Parker School and help fund the purchase of two very much-needed school buses to transport students to athletic competitions and field trip excursions,” said FHB chair, president and CEO Bob Harrison. “Access to both athletic and scholastic opportunities are integral in the educational experiences of all students, and we take pride in knowing that we have played a small role in the procurement of the buses.” 

The 15-passenger Chevy Express 3500 buses purchased by Parker School are equipped with a range of features, including seat belts and air conditioning, which are not available on the school’s other buses.

“Our entire school community is incredibly grateful for this gift,” says head of school Stephen Dunn. “Given the long distances that our students travel from Waimea’s high elevation for excursions, sporting events and even to the Kona airport, our buses are heavily used. Now students in every grade can access the unparalleled learning opportunities that Waimea and Hawaii Island offer in vehicles that are safe and reliable.” 

Since 2012, First Hawaiian Bank has invested more than $315,000 in Parker School through donations that primarily addressed Parker School capital and financial aid needs, including funding for a media lab building, a mini school bus, construction of the lower school, and 21,000-square-foot multi-use SMART Center that is currently under construction.