A permanent facility for MLC on the grounds of Kapolei High School is nearing the ground-breaking stage.  Spanning 20,000 square feet, this “green building” will serve as 3-D textbook for environmental sustainability, and will, at minimum, meet the Gold standard for Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED). The three-acre site for the center will be leased by the DOE to MLC for a nominal fee.  During most school hours, DOE students will visit MLC for projects and classes, and at other times, the community will enjoy full use of the facilities.

The center will provide a dynamic environment where Hawaiian culture will inspire artistic expression, conservation education, and scientific inquiry.  Computers and educational materials in a multi-purpose resource room will support research and distance learning, while rotating displays of green technology will provide fresh inspiration.

Construction of the learning center will commence in two phases. Phase One will include: community meeting/resource room, two wet lab classrooms, shadehouse nursery, and administrative offices. Phase Two will include: multipurpose gathering hall seating 450, exhibit space/art gallery, expanded nursery, outdoor performance area.

We are actively raising funds for the construction of Phase I of our exciting green educational facility. Our award-winning design will be LEED Gold-certified and feature the best of earth-friendly design appropriate to our community. The building will house many teaching opportunities and will itself be used as a teaching tool. Community, business and government leaders have come together to support this public/private partnership that provides a direct link between schools with the surrounding community.

To date, $2.25 million has been raised through numerous resources primarily within the private sector, including grants, private donations and community-based fund-raising efforts. Another $2.75 million must be raised for construction to begin as planned in summer 2011.

To learn more and to make a donation, call (808) 692-8200 ext. 2252 or email: Pauline@malamalearningcenter.org.