Kamehameha Schools redefines college preparation with Accelerate ASU

Kamehameha Schools Hawaiʻi Campus is setting a new standard for college readiness by combining cultural identity with academic opportunity. In partnership with Arizona State University’s Accelerate ASU program, students can now earn up to 60 transferable college credits—all before graduation.

The dual enrollment initiative, called Ke Ala I Ka Palapala Laepua (“Pathway to Bachelor’s”), has grown 300% since launch, now reaching nearly 100 of the campus’s 585 students. This flexible model allows learners to take ASU courses part-time, full-time or over-time—replacing electives while balancing family and extracurricular commitments.

What makes this program distinct is its cultural intentionality. Students engage in college coursework while reflecting on how their learning connects to their Hawaiian identity and responsibilities to their communities. “We can’t have a cookie-cutter approach to education anymore,” said Dr. Isaac Vigilla, Dean of Studies at Kamehameha. 

Families—central to Hawaiian education—are involved through regular ʻOhana sessions where parents engage in their student’s college journey. Accelerate ASU’s flexible, barrier-free model removes traditional hurdles like applications and GPAs, making early college access more equitable. With strong mentorship, cultural relevance and family involvement, Kamehameha students are not just earning credits—they’re reshaping their academic identities.

Graduates of the program often enter college as sophomores, better prepared, more motivated and with a clearer sense of purpose. Learn how ASU and Kamehameha Schools are partnering to create a culturally grounded, college-ready future for Hawaiian students.