King David Kalākaua Middle School

History at the 25th Anniversary of the School

In 1927, the City and County of Honolulu and the Department of Instruction laid the foundation of a new intermediate school.  A large two story building was officially dedicated in September, 1928, as Kalakaua Intermediate School, named for the merry King of Hawaii who was interested in public education and general betterment of the Territory.  Sixty one faculty members, 1550 students with the principalship of Mr. Thomas Vance made up the happy family who faced challenges of beautification of the school grounds, carrying on a full school program with limited furniture and equipment.  School activities were intensified with various farm projects.  Many of these projects were eliminated in later years because of the expansion of the high school vocational program.

New cafeteria, shop, homemaking, and physical education buildings were added between 1931 and 1934.

Through the efforts of the school and its community, funds were raised to equip the school for efficient operation.  The public address system which enables good communication throughout the school is one of the results.

World War II found Kalakaua Intermediate School fully prepared for the war efforts.  It was used as an evacuation, immunization, and food storage center.  It had also become the Registration Center.

The student body turned out to work in the pineapple fields and participated in the stamps and bonds sales