The Distance Learning program began as a pilot during the summer of 1997. The first distance learning course offered for high school credit, Hawaiian History, was televised statewide via public access channels on all islands and offered to selected boarding students from Kamehameha High School. Students who did not have computer and Internet access at home were loaned laptop computers and given dial-up accounts so they could complete assignments and interact with their instructors via email.
A year later, in September 1998, the Distance Learning Department was formally created as part of the Educational Technology and Production Division (ETTPD). The Department continued to focus on limited offerings of high school credit courses during summer as part of KS Summer Programs.
In July 2001, the Department reorganized into the newly created Extension Education Division. As part of its new focus, the Department looked at providing distance learning opportunities to the broader Hawaiian community.
Another 3 years later, in November 2003, the Distance Learning Department was transferred to the Vice President of Education's Office. Currently, the Vice President of Education's Office is now known as Community Outreach Education.
In the future, the Department (now known as Virtual Strategies & Distance Learning) plans to develop and implement programs specific to the unique interests and strengths of the Kamehameha Schools in the area of Hawaiian culture and history. A variety of delivery methods will be examined and implemented. Programs will target audiences both locally here in Hawai'i as well as abroad.
