KAPAA — Kauai residents Bill and Judith Fernandez are starting a new scholarship for Kapaa High School students.
Established through a Wednesday night $25,000 donation to the Kapaa High School Foundation, the new scholarship will help Eastside students further their educations.
“I’ve always had wonderful memories of growing up here in Kapaa,” Bill Fernandez said during the check presentation to foundation members and school staff including Principal Tommy John Cox.
“I always wanted to come back and to have a Fernandez Family Scholarship that will stand in perpetuity.”
The Kapaa High School Foundation was formed in 1995, and awards grants to programs, teachers and students to help enhance high school education and help students on their paths as they go to college.
In 2019, for instance, the foundation grants included $10,000 each to the school’s athletic department, senior class programs and activities and to “other school activities,” according to the foundation’s 2019 overview report.
Other school activities included providing T-shirts for freshmen orientation, and teacher-planned programs and events for students.
The foundation also funds equipment and supplies purchases for the school, and presents awards like the Outstanding Warrior Award, which is given annually and recognizes exceptional school service.
Fernandez didn’t go to school at Kapaa High, but says growing up on the Eastside is something he treasures.
“I’ve always had wonderful memories of growing up here in Kapaa,” Fernandez said. “But, when I was growing up, there was nothing like this for the kids. We want to be part of that.”
