Disrupted education
This letter is regarding the article “US colleges tout hopes for a return to new normal this fall” (Tribune-Herald, March 23).
As mine and thousands of other seniors end their year on so many different stages — from the height of their academic career to those who have just hung on by a thread — regardless of where everyone is, our future is more uncertain than any other seniors’ year.
Colleges and universities across the nation have implemented plans working around COVID-19, but there is still uncertainty to any claim made and a level of risk both economically and in terms of health. However, the biggest issue not being publicized enough is the strain of transition going from a virtual learning environment back to a face-to-face learning environment.
Many parents see the face-to-face environment as a place where their child can thrive again academically, but the last year and a half might have more long-term consequences on students.
Teachers are another school group that has been heavily impacted by online learning. Teachers have gotten used to flexibility, coupled with lower out-of-pocket expenses like school supplies for their classroom.
I can only speak for myself, but I believe that giving students free tuition for one semester is a fantastic alternative to take economic risk off of the student body and allow for better student retention.
However, I think that instead of providing a free semester of tuition, students would benefit more from small group-orientated programs to allow students to enter college with individuals they feel comfortable with.
Not only will that help students, but it will allow teachers to have an environment that readjusts them into face-to-face teaching, while giving them the freedom to make their lessons flexible.
Samuel Garcia
Hilo
Protect the valley
As a resident of Waipi‘o Valley my entire life, I have to share my feelings.
The road into the valley has been increasingly trafficked by rental vehicles. The drivers of these rental cars have absolutely no idea how to drive down into Waipi’o, and as a father, I fear for the safety of my family and all the people who hike and drive up the road as a way of life.
There are multiple solutions, but the state has not implemented one. My idea? Ban rental vehicles and people without a state ID from entering into the valley by vehicle.
Waipi‘o is a sacred place. This valley has one of the longest and most powerful histories in all of Hawaii.
Many of our kupuna and their ancestors lived for generations without foreign invasion into these lands. This valley was believed to be the birthing canal for many of the gods of Hawaii and in some legends, even the first kanaka, Haloa.
We need to start treating Waipi‘o with more respect, and I consider this a major social issue our island is facing today.
Protect Waipi‘o.
Kaleo M. Olival
Honokaa