Raise Your Hand

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“Raise Your Hand” is a monthly editorial column written by high school students and their peers in collaboration with the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Its purpose is to provide a platform for youth voice, particularly DOE students. Since its start in March 2016, over 50 articles have been published in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

We fervently believe that when youth are allowed to voice their opinions, amazing feats are accomplished. A young adult’s concerns are not only about school lunches, bullies, or the dress code. The younger generation is just as passionate and invested as their adult counterparts in issues facing our world. After all, they are our future leaders.

Blog Posts

Transgender athletes a complex issue

Transgender athletes a complex issue

"When questions over fairness and safety are raised, many who advocate for the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports opt for swift reprisal rather than honest dialogue."

To build friendships, leave your bubble

Talking to a stranger can be terrifying: you don’t know them, they don’t know you, and now you’re in an awkward conversation about the weather. When Pan faced this struggle she turned to Nicholas Epley, a psychologist, for help. He shared a profound statement: “Nobody waves — but everybody waves back.”

We can’t allow differences to divide us

"Our democracy is at risk because we are plagued with an inability to communicate with one another, which divides our country and weaponizes our constitutional rights."

Remote Work vs. Office Work

Remote Work vs. Office Work

"The pandemic has come to a slowdown and regulations are ending, creating a hard push back into pre-pandemic life. With the world returning back to “normalcy,” employers requiring employees to return to the office has become a point of contention."

Two students weigh in on Hawaii's Governor Race

Two students weigh in on Hawaii's Governor Race

"Leaders of our state who have made these empty promises have left us hopeless, especially the younger generations. As time has passed, many of us have progressively lost hope in being able to comfortably and safely live here in Hawaii."

A Good Career in Tech Can Happen Here

A Good Career in Tech Can Happen Here

"While the obstacles abound, dispelling the idea that our beautiful islands cannot support our technology professionals, and better advertising the available local pathways are steps in the right direction."

Losing Touch with Basic Social Etiquette

Losing Touch with Basic Social Etiquette

"When a pandemic happens, it takes a lot of effort to actually “get back to normal.” In addition to restoring the political and economic systems, it is essential to highlight the ripple effects of our decaying social skills as well."

Money isn't magic: Supporting Hawaii's teachers beyond pay

Money isn't magic: Supporting Hawaii's teachers beyond pay

"While money is a leading issue behind the teacher shortage, rallying support for our teachers in our schools and communities is a simple first step. So that if teaching is their dream, reality does not disappoint."

Teens' Take on Abortion

Teens' Take on Abortion

Without the strength of my mother’s “Yes,” I would never be where I am today. It’s a strength that requires vulnerability, both hers and mine, to live life against the dominant narrative that says that both our choices were the “wrong” one.

HPD Should Welcome Community Input

HPD Should Welcome Community Input


It is no secret that the Honolulu Police Department has seen its share of difficulties of corruption and rising anti- police sentiment nationwide. Here's what we can do to change that.

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