“I wanted to thank you for your help in getting my kids prepared for the Kamehameha entrance tests. All the info you gave: workbooks to study, interview questions and reference letters were very helpful. Both of them made it into Kamehameha Maui Campus. B__ made into the 6th grade and K__ made it into the 9th grade. K__ got into one of the only 12 slots available! Much Mahalo!” – Jonathan L.

(March 2024) “Pray you are doing well. Just wanted to send you a big Mahalo! A year ago we ordered the Study Test Prep Books from you and we worked really hard with the materials for months leading up to their test dates. We also worked on interview questions etc. I am super happy and blessed to let you know that BOTH of them got into Kamehameha (for 9th grade) and had their Orientation Day this past Saturday. Thank you so much for all that you do to help our keiki work towards accomplishing their dreams. Have a wonderful day!” - Yvonne S.

(March 2024) “We have not shared with J___ yet, but wanted to let u know that he was accepted to Iolani (for 8th grade, a non-entry year). Mahalo for all ur help, we have and will continue to recommend u!” - Randy & Judie L.

(March 2024) “Just want to share that my middle child, K___, was admitted into 9th grade at Kamehameha Kapalama campus. We are thrilled. Your books definitely helped and the tips you had on your website for KS admissions seem to still be spot on. We followed all your tips. Sending along their current in case you have any other students in the future.” - Kim E.

(April 2024) “OK Hand emoji. Thumbs Up emoji. Smiley Face Hands emoji. thanks for all your tutoring help (for S___ into Punahou for 4th grade)” - Karen M.

(March 2024) D___: “Thank you Kevin for all the stuff you helped me with. I got in (to Iolani for 8th grade, a non-entry year). You really helped me out with getting in and I needed that.”

(March 2024) “Thank you so much Kevin!!! Y___ R__ F___ has been accepted to Iolani (for 6th grade). We could have not done it without you!!!!! She did score higher on her testing and will show them that she has what it takes to be a scholar athlete! Im sure we will see you again for tutoring though. I also have a friend who is interested in sending her daughter to you for ssat prep for next year. May I forward her your contact info?” - Lyanne & Marc F.

(April 2024) “Yes, at 4pm. Thanks, will keep you posted. M___ accepted to Punahou (for 4th grade). Thank you for all your support and help.” - Casey J.

(March 2024) “Y___ got accepted to Punahou (for 7th grade). Thank you so much for helping Y___.” - Ryoko B.

(March 2024) “E___ got into Iolani (for 9th grade) but got wait listed for Punahou.” - Carolyn C.

(April 2024) “Yes, at 4:00. C___ was accepted (into Punahou for 4th grade)!!!! Mahalo!!!” - Calie D.

(March 2024) “Good evening. We have wonderful news! E___ got into all the schools she applied to (for 9th grade), including Iolani and Punahou. She is going to a ___!!! Yay! Thank you for the tutoring sessions and the encouragement! We are so very proud of her!” - Janel & Sean C.

(March 2024) “O___ was admitted to Punahou (for 7th grade). Mahalo nui for all your help to get her to this point. We are so grateful. You worked your magic again! She took the test again on the computer right before cut off in December and she really liked that” - Sharla M.

(March 2024) “I am glad to share with you that R___ got accepted in both Iolani and Punahou schools for 7th grade. Thank you for your guidance.. we liked HMS as well and all the subject teachers wrote good comments on R___’s report card.” - Meena S.

(April 2024) “We got number 2 in for 4th grade (at Punahou)! Mahalo for this resource (Gr.3/4 and SSAT Elementary test prep books)!” - Kei K.

(March 2024) “Just wanted to thank you for helping C___. He was blessed with the opportunity to attend Iolani (for 7th grade). Take care” - Estan & Shirley R.

(April 2024) “Thank you for remembering us. Look forward to it. Punahou accepted L___ and A___ (for 4th grade). Thank you for all your help them SSAT. I appreciate your teaching them to take the exercises seriously.” - Jona C.

(March 2024) “We are so nervous! I will let you know tonight after we find out. Most of the kids in his class got into MidPac. We only applied to Punahou so hoping it works out. Thank you again for all of your help.”

(March 2024) “Hi Mr. Kevin it’s me E___!! I got into Iolani (for 7th grade)!! Thank you for tutoring me and guiding me”

“I would like to purchase a test prep booklet for the upcoming grade 9 KAMEHAMEHA schools test (for my daughter). I have ordered from you before, and whatever book you recommend I will purchase. My sons got in to Kamehameha for fourth and seventh grade and the study guides helped.” – Warren I., Wahiawa father of Kamehameha students

“My son will be testing for Punahou and Kamehameha next year for grade 9 entry. I was wondering if you could recommend the test booklets I need to purchase. BTW, thank you for your help. He tested for Punahou and KS a few years ago for grade 7. I purchased your test prep booklets then. He was accepted to Punahou and was waitlisted to KS. Unfortunately, we were...” - C.B.

“This (Kindergarten prep) book looks awesome. And thank you for delivering it (to Kapahulu). That was really nice of you.” - A.M., Honolulu teacher

“I’m not sure if you remember me but i ordered your study guide for Kamehameha School’s 4th grade testing. My daughter got in!!! I wanted to order another study guide for her cousin that will be testing this year. I ordered from you and you delivered it to __ Street. I also wanted to order the 7th grade level study guide too.” – Betty M., Aiea mother

“Great news, K__ was accepted into Punahou (for 6th grade)! Thank YOU for your tremendous help!!” - Lindsay C.

“I just notice … IOLANI RAIDERS!!!! (M__ acceptance for 7th grade) Im so happy & relieved!!! Thank you kevin!!!” - Janice M.

“S__ got in to Punahou (for 9th grade)!!! Thank you for all your help and tutoring. For some reason the 6th through 9th came out today. Early!!” - Jamie M.

“She’s (A__) been accepted (to Punahou for 4th grade)! Thank you for all your support!” - Brigitte N.

“Yes she (E__) got in (to Iolani for 7th grade)” - Makala M.

“She (I__) got in (to Punahou for 6th grade). Thank you for all your help in making this happen.”

“Z__ got in (to Punahou for 4th grade). Thank you for everything!” - Rita S.

“Yes I meant to text you, C__ got in (to Punahou for 9th grade)! Thank you for your help. He is very happy.” - Jennifer F.

“Hey!!! I just saw this text. Odd!! OK so today check it out (K__ accepted to Punahou for 6th grade). So very excited and so thankful for your help!! He did. __ was his 1st choice. We had no clue of his chances. He worked very hard.”

“L__ passed Punahou (for 1st grade)! Thank you very much for your support. I appreciated” - Yuka U.

“We got the email. She (C__) got accepted (to Iolani for 6th grade). Thank you for your help. We know she could not have gotten on without your help!! We haven’t told her yet, we’ll give her the news tonight. I think she will be happy. Hopefully it’s a good fit for her. I hear there’s a lot of in 6th grade?? We are still waiting to hear from mid pacific.” - Mary H.

“S__ was accepted to Punahou (for 7th grade)! But we haven’t decided if we’re going to move him over from __ because he’s been doing really well there this year. It might be a good opportunity to spread his wings. I’ll let you know where he ends up.” - Angel K.

“H__ was accepted to Iolani (for 7th grade). Jen mentioned to me you said there was a really good catholic school in Kailua. We’ve heard the same. _ _ is the last school we are waiting to hear back on.” - Carly B.

“Yes we did get our Punahou, HBA, Iolani decisions. She (M__) has been offered a spot in all 3 schools (for 9th grade). Now we have to see the aspect to see which schools are actual” - Cheryl K.

“We (M__) got accepted in HBA (for 7th grade) so we have a. Yeah!! It is okay we are happy with HBA…” - Biljana B.

“Thank you very much Kevin! Haha his reading … K__ got in to Punahou (for 9th grade)! LOL. We wanted to try a different path than his brothers!” - Diane P.

“I hope you don’t mind that I have shared your contact info with some mom friends looking for tutors. I meant to tell you that we ended up applying W__ for Punahou 5th grade and he was accepted and will be starting there in the fall. We appreciate all your help in preparing him for the SSAT these past few years.” - Marissa R.

“Paid! I just wanted to let you know my oldest daughter applied to Kamehameha for 9th grade last year. Your test prep materials and application tips were so helpful for the process. She was accepted for the fall and we are so excited for her high school opportunities there. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise. Now we are working on our younger two girls for 4th and 7th grade!” - J.K.

“Yes she (M__) did (get in to HBA for 9th grade). Thank you for all your help.” - Jan N.

“Appreciate your nice words, she did have 4.0 GPA and Junior honor student. No, I didn’t apply __. We got in HBA (for 7th grade). Ty Mr. Kevin! - S__” - Jerrie C.

“We plan to send S__ to MPI this coming school year. She had great sports recommendations, even from an ex softball coach that received a call from the current coach that they knew about S__. We have her in a top vball club right now. Majority of her softball friends are. I think it’s the teachers that make a difference. We’re gonna keep reminding her with her friends.” - S.I.

“Just wanted to update you that we applied for Hongwanji Mission School and R__ got accepted by that school. Thank you for your follow up and guidance.” - M.S.

“Jarom was accepted for Kamehameha Schools 9th grade. Mahalo.” - Chan N.

“We wanted to let you know that Jacob got into both Punahou and Midpac for 9th grade next year. He’s excited to attend Punahou with his older sister! Thank you so much for all your hard work and patience! Have a great weekend!” – Deyna & Mark

“Yes! Kian was accepted (to Punahou for 4th grade)! We hear from Kamehameha tomorrow, I will let you know!”

“Aaron got in both of them (Punahou and Iolani for 6th grade), he is so excited for it. Thank you for your help! I will definitely refer you to my friends and brother J___ will need your help too. Yes, do you have any suggestions for which school he should pick?” – Michelle & Lou

“S___ got in (to Punahou for 4th grade). Thank you for checking and all your support. Second SSAT he did great and got all analogies. Maybe only missed one. Scores were good.” – L.K.

“Yes we did! Kaia was accepted (to Iolani for 9th grade). Thanks again for all your help! Appreciate everything… All in God’s plan.” – N.C. and J.C.

“Grayson got accepted to all 4 he applied to (for 7th grade): Punahou, iolani, mid-Pac and HBA. Thank you so much for working with Grayson! We are going to talk about it next week. Grayson will visit some of the schools and decide. Highly likely ___.” – Cynthia & Brian

“Sierra got into Punahou, Kamehameha and Mid Pac (for 9th grade). Your tutoring was extremely helpful. We are very thankful of your help and expertise. We didn’t apply ___ Lol.” – Andy & Natalie

“How have you been? Just wanted to let you know that Liam and Sophie both got accepted to Punahou (for 4th grade)! Thank you very much for all your support, your workbooks, and being patient with them!!☺” – Bev 

“This is Datta’s mom!! He got into the schools (Punahou and Iolani for 9th grade)! Thank u so much for your help.” – Niyati & Richard

“So Aris got in to Iolani and Mid Pac (for 7th grade). Thank you!! They were amazing.” – Cristina & Joem

“Niko got in (to Iolani for 8th grade, a non-entry year)! We’re in shock :)” - Nick and Ayako

“I am beyond excited to share the good news… we just found out that E___ got in to Punahou for 4th grade!! I know that her success was in large part to your instruction and superlative materials. We are so grateful and appreciative for all you did to prepare her. Thank you so much!!! Please feel free to add my comments to your testimonials. I have already been happily singing to all those who are considering instruction. So, so happy! I’ll be sending a few friends your way in the coming months; I hope you have a time slot for them.” – N.M.

“FYI- T___ got wait pooled for Punahou and accepted to Mid-PAC (for 6th grade).” – W.A.

"Sophie and Sadie both got into Punahou (for ninth and sixth grade, respectively)." - Celeste Y.

"Thank you for helping Tommy prepare for the SSAT. He was accepted to ‘Iolani and Punahou (for seventh grade). We really appreciate your help!" - Katie A.

"Mia was accepted into Punahou (for fourth grade)! Kind of a surprise for us. Thanks again for all of your help. We’ve still got the two younger boys, so we’ll reach out when they’re ready to test." - Jen D.

"Thanks for all your help. Elvy got acceptance letter from HBA (for sixth grade)!" - David C.

“Katie yes accepted to Iolani (for 8th grade, a non-entry year). Congratulations on your acceptance to ‘Iolani School for the 2020-2021 school year! I sincerely hope you choose to be a part of our community where we believe in One Team and care for one another each and every day. Iolani is a place where you can discover your passions, challenge yourself, and make life-long friends. I look forward to welcoming you as an ‘Iolani Raider!” – Cindy Chandao

“True got into all 3 schools!!! Iolani Punahou HBA (for 7th grade). Thank you very much for everything you’ve done. We appreciate your tutoring and guidance. When would you recommend for our older daughter to start tutoring for the PSAT and SAT tests?” – Blayne Takemoto

“Guess what, Sue got in to both Punahou and Iolani (for 6th grade)… I’m not sure which one is better for Sue! Thank you for your effort studying with Sue. Take care COVID 19.” – Janet Lee

“I hope you are well during this crazy time. Thank just wanted to let you know that Ella got into Iolani (for 7th grade)! It is all because of you! Thank you so so much for all your tutoring w her! She also got into Maryknoll :) Just thought you would want to know :)” – Jenny Lum

“Just wanted to share the great news with you. Bella got accepted (for 7th grade) into Iolani, Punahou and Stanford Online Highschool. She is going to attend Iolani full time and do a course at Stanford OHS. We wanted to thank you again for working with her. We plan on her taking the SAT next year to apply for a special scholarship, so will be in touch after the summer to get her acclimated with the test. Please stay safe and healthy in this uncertain time.” – Vivien & Kwong

“Just wanted to let you know that Skye got accepted to Punahou!! Thank you so much for your help, we know that was a big factor of her doing well on the test and getting in for 6th grade! Hope you are doing well during this challenging time. Stay safe and healthy. Thank you again for everything!” – Kerri, Kevin and Skye Mokulehua

“Thank you so much for everything you did to help Morgan prepare for the SSAT and our entire application process! We received 2 acceptances today—Iolani & HBA (to 9th grade), but still waiting on Punahou. I’ll definitely keep you posted. Mahalo!”

“I hope you’re staying safe and healthy. Just wanted to let you know that Cohen has been waitlisted for Iolani and accepted to Punahou. Punahou is his first choice so we are excited that he will be starting as a 6th grader there this fall. When this pandemic ends, I’ll probably reach out to you again about tutoring our daughter for 4th grade SSAT for Punahou. Lmk if you also tutor this age group. Thank you for everything!” – Rita Sakamoto

“Just wanted to let you know that thanks to your patience, kindness, and diligence, Tyler was just accepted to Hawaii Baptist Academy (for 7th grade)! We’re very proud of her and excited to see what lies ahead in her educational journey. I hope you’re doing well in the midst of all this “stay-at-home” craziness. Thank you again for all you did in helping Tyler.” – Russell and Tammy Yamanoha

“Hope you are staying well. Just wanted to update you that kalden got into iolani (for 8th grade, a non-entry year). He couldn’t have done it without your help. Thank you so much.” – Becky Fu

“I hope you are well! Just wanted to let you know that Luca has been accepted to Punahou (for 6th grade)! He’s thrilled and excited and says thank you for all your help!” – Fiona and Luca

“Just wanted to share a good new with you. Katie got into both Punahou and Iolani (for 6th grade). We are very happy for her. Thank you for all your help. Stay safe and healthy.” – Karen Wu

“Elizabeth gets into HBA and Punahou (for 6th grade). Thank you for your help.” – Jennifer Tran

“Thanks for all your help with Leland. Thankfully, he was accepted to all the schools to which he applied: Iolani, Punahou, and HBA (for 6th grade). We couldn’t have done this without you and you can be sure he’ll be returning for the SAT prep. We’re having a hard time deciding where to send him. Based on what you know of him, do you think he’d be a better fit at Iolani or Punahou? Thanks and stay safe!” – Leighton Hara

“Thanks for the test prep books. Just wanted to let you know that Luke got accepted into both Iolani and Punahou for 6th grade. We didn’t have time for any classes so we strictly prepared using only your books. David says “hi.” He remembers playing with you when you guys were young.” – The Itomuras

“Wanted to let you know that Robyn got accepted to both Iolani and Punahou (for 7th grade). I believe she's figuring on going to Iolani with her sister. Wanted to thank you again for all your help with her tutoring.” – Kevin Sasuga

“I hope this finds you doing well during this challenging time. Mia and I would like to thank you for tutoring Mia for SSAT. Mia is accepted at Iolani (for 9th grade), and plans on attend there next year!” – Le Lee

“I wanted to share that both Te’alohi and Nalu were accepted to Punahou, 7th and 4th grade, respectively. Nalu was also accepted to Hanahau’oli. We haven’t gotten her test scores yet, but she felt the test was much easier than the SSAT. We’ll see. We’ve had some big decisions to make these last couple of weeks, and after hearing about Nalu’s acceptances are likely going to enroll Te’alohi at ____ and Nalu at ____. Thank you so much for all your help and support. Your workbooks made a huge difference in preparing them and we’re really appreciative. If I can help you spread the word about them, I’m happy to. Aloha nui.” – Steph Co

“Just wanted to share some good news with you! Noelle was accepted to Punahou and Iolani for ninth grade. It was a difficult decision but she is planning to go to ____. I’m sure your SSAT study guide really helped her a lot!” – Susan Nakagawa

“Just wanted to share with you that Tay just got her admittance letter today from Punahou (for fourth grade)! Thank you so much for all your help and guidance. We hope you are well and safe at this time, but as soon as this is over we hope to see you again to give you something for our appreciation!” – Brigitte Nakagawa

“We found out last week that David got into Punahou for 4th grade. Thank you for all your help in preparing him for the SSAT. Hope you are well.” – Michelle Danailov

“Hi Kevin this is Maggie, Tim’s mom. Tim got accepted by HBA (to 6th grade). Thank you for your year-long tutoring.” – Maggie He

“For Trevor: Punahou Waitlist, Midpac Yes. I guess we’ll be starting tutoring again! Hope you are staying safe and healthy!!” – Y. Wu

“Hope you’re staying safe and weathering the COVID storm ok. Thanks to you, Emme was accepted to MidPAC (for 6th grade) and waitlisted at Punahou.” – Cindy Matsushita 

“Thank you Kevin. It was great working with you as well. You are a great teacher and really helped Caydee to improve her skills. Just FYI she did get into Kaimuki Christian School (for 6th grade). They said she did really well on the in house academic testing and Caydee said your tutoring really helped.” – Kirsten Yonamine

“She did (get accepted to Iolani for sixth grade)!!! Thank you very much Kevin!”

“Hi Kevin, I’m Tony. Thank you for your mail. Today I received mail for J.D. just accepted for Punahou School (for sixth grade). Thank you so much.” – Tony L.

“Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us Kevin. What you said reconfirmed what we thought/observed. We will most likely be sending Lam to _______ (though she still needs to be totally convinced first). So Lam’s gotten acceptances (to sixth grade) to all of the 5 schools that she applied (Punahou, Iolani, Sacred Hearts, La Pietra, and Kaimuki Middle – a public school through Geographic Exception). We’re beyond happy. Thanks so much again for all the test prep, interview prep, guidance and encouragement during this process. We initially found you through an Internet search but will definitely refer you to our friends. And if Lam needs tutoring again in the future, I hope you don’t mind us reaching out again.” – Hiep, Ngoc & Lam Nguyen

“Candace got into Punahou (for ninth grade). Thanks for all your help!” – Florence Ching

“Krizelle got accepted to Punahou (for ninth grade). Thank you Kevin! Thank you so much for prepping her with her SSAT. Tutoring her helped her a lot with her scores. She learned a lot from you. Mahalo.” – Kris Tabios

“I just wanted to thank you for all your help in preparing Andrew Kim for the SSAT and giving us tips on the interview process. I am happy to share that Andrew got into both Iolani and Punahou (for sixth grade)!! I wanted to bring over a gift card as a token of our appreciation. Which place do you like to eat at or shop? Are usually at ______ on Saturday mornings? Thanks again for your invaluable help:).” – Shin

“Ethan got accepted to Punahou (for fourth grade)! Thanks so much for all your help!” – Mark Nakatsukasa 

“Aloha Kevin! Yes, Sydney received it and was accepted (to Iolani for ninth grade)! I had planned to email you – she was camping until this afternoon – so we just shared the news with her about an hour ago. Thank you!”

“I just wanted to give you an update and let you know that Ian got waitlisted for Iolani and he got in to Punahou (for seventh grade)! Thanks for all of your help with the SSAT prep! Mahalo.” – Deena Nogaki

“Hi Kevin, this is Rimi’s dad. She got into HBA (for seventh grade)… HBA would be good though. Thanks for your help!”

“Hey, just wanted to let you know KJ got into Punahou (for seventh grade)!! Thank you for all your help. Sending some people to you plus Tehani will probably need ur help with SAT.” – Annette Hallums

“Landen got in to all the schools he applied for: Punahou, Maryknoll, Damien, and St. Louis (for seventh grade). Thanks for your help with his scores.” – Angela Rose

“Hey Kevin, Just wanted to let you know that B______ was accepted to both ’Iolani and MidPacific (for sixth grade); he did not apply at Punahou! He just decided that he will be attending ’Iolani next year with brother. Thank you so much for all your help! We really appreciate it!!” – K.D., Manoa mother of a public school transfer

“Yes, C______ did (get accepted to Iolani for sixth grade), thanks for all the help. Still waiting for decisions from punahou / mid pac the next few days” – L.B.

“Hi Kevin, I just wanted to let you know that C_______ got into all 3 schools that she applied for (for seventh grade): 1) Punahou 2) Mid Pacific 3) HBA. She hasn’t decided where she’s going yet. I will keep you posted.” – S.C., Aiea mother of a public school transfer

“Hi kelvin, Jenny got into HBA (for seventh grade) thank you for all your help” – Qunney Situ

“Hi. We did. Skylar did get accepted to hba (for ninth grade). Thanks for your help tho. Much mahalos …being able to pursue his passion of volleyball and finding a balance as a student athlete that we would agree is acceptable.” – Cheryl Kaneshiro

“Thanks again for tutoring Mia last year! I’m sorry we didn’t contact you for lessons in January. I just wanted to let you know that Mia got accepted to HBA (for seventh grade). She also got a GE for Kaimuki Middle so we are still thinking about going that route. Anyway appreciate your guidance and thank you again!” – Lorelei N.

“I forgot to tell you that my daughter “C” was admitted to 4th grade at Punahou. Thank you for your test prep materials! We sat down every day and worked through them and she scored very well on the standardized test. I appreciate your guidance and the materials we purchased from you. We reviewed the materials at least an hour every day for over 8 months. My daughter scored in the 94th percentile on reading and verbal. Math was in the range but not like the verbal and reading. Mahalo!” – I.B., father ordered the Gr.2/3, Gr.3/4 and SSAT Elem. test prep books

“Ethan got into Iolani (for sixth grade). Still waiting for Punahou and MidPac.”

“We wanted you to know that Joshua was blessed, with admission to all four schools that he applied to, including both Punahou and Kamehameha (for seventh grade)! We can’t thank you enough! Looking back at every interview and test, Joshua walked in confident & comfortable. Through this year your tutoring has helped him in school, he held his grades, straight A’s, despite his athletic schedule. You are very knowledgeable and know what it takes to get a Child into a private school, All you need is the Parents support as well as the Child. But then again. You do know how to motivate a Child. God Bless You! Mahalo Piha!” – The Yamashiros

“We just returned from Maui. Kainoa received his Punahou letter today. HE WAS ACCEPTED!!! (for seventh grade) Kenn & I are happy but still in shock. Thanks for your kind words. You played a big role in Kainoa’s success. We’re grateful for your guidance & support. He got all As in the 3rd quarter, so hopefully they’ll allow me to submit his report card. I’ll let you know when we make our final decision.” – Kimberly Yuen

“How have you been? I just wanted to let you know that M___ is accepted to Punahou (for fourth grade). Thank you so much for your help, we appreciate.” – B.R., Makiki mother of a public school transfer

“Excited to say that Blayze (9th) and Kiara (8th) both got into Iolani!! Iolani was their first choice, so they are both happy! Thank you for all your help to get them ready for the SAT test!! Grateful for your help, patience and the way you made it fun for them to study on the weekend.” – Diana & Jason Baba

“Evan got an acceptance letter from Damien Memorial School for 6th grade few weeks ago. He also earned hefty Academic Scholarship renewable annually by maintaining high cumulative GPA. He also received the formal acceptance letter from HBA for 6th grade today. Thanks again for all your coaching and help. The plan was executed flawlessly. PS. Evan said HBA’s test is easier than Damien’s. Also 2 hours or so vs 4-hour.” – David Chun

“M____ got into punahou (for sixth grade)…thank you Kevin for helping prepare her.” – Michelle D., Manoa mother of a public school transfer

“I thought to email you last night…but figured I’d wait until this weekend. Thank you for checking! Noah got in to Iolani (for seventh grade). He/we are happy and we’re hopeful as his interview went as well as it could have, I guess. Based on what he told us, the supervisor and he talked about baseball and basketball, his favorite team and players. He asked Noah about some basketball trade and whether he thought it was a good trade and Noah gave a good response. Thank you for working with Noah! Your materials are awesome and working with you made a significant difference this time around.”

“D___ got the acceptance letter from Iolani (for seventh grade). She’s very happy. She’s waiting to hear from Punahou before making her decision. Thank you very much for tutoring D___. It made a big difference.”

“Matthew received his notice of acceptance to Iolani (for seventh grade). Thanks Kevin for working with Matthew for so many years. Couldn’t have done it without your help.”

“I got a call from Iolani Admissions today. Bella got in (for seventh grade)!”

“Yes, we received it, we are still weighing our decision. Here is where Tyler was accepted (for sixth grade): Iolani Mid Pac. Again, thanks for your help.” – Merritte Wilson

“Yes we did and Mehana got in to (to Iolani for seventh grade)! Thank u again!!!!” – Candace Goo

“…so we’re gonna wait til the 15th of April to see if Renn gets in and if not she will accept HBAs acceptance (to seventh grade)…thanks again Kevin” – Gay M.

“Just wanted to thank you…Camden will be going to Punahou for 6th grade next year. Your test books and 1-on-1 prep really helped him!” – Sheri L.

“Bubba applied to Mid Pac and ‘Iolani, got in both and decided to attend ‘Iolani for grade 7. Much mahalo for your help.” – Shea ‘Ohana

“YES! (Griffin) was accepted to Iolani (for sixth grade)! We just opened the envelopes! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP IN GETTING HER PREPARED!” – Kimberly Frank

“Wanted to let you know that Jack got into both Punahou and MPI (for ninth grade). Leaning heavily to ___. We really appreciate all your work with him to help him be the best he could be for the process. We will also utilize your tutoring with jack should he need any extra help in the future.” – Jarrett and Tracy Pang

“Yes Colby was accepted to Iolani (for sixth grade), got the letter today. Still waiting for Punahou and MPI. Thanks for all you help!” – Jill Kurasaki

“Funny I sent you an e-mail yesterday but I see it was returned so I’m glad you e-mailed me. Thanks to all your hard work, Keaton got accepted to Iolani (for seventh grade)!!! I kind of had a heads up because the Iolani soccer coach called Keaton’s coach and after their conversation wanted Keaton on his team. Keaton’s coach told me after. I just didn’t want to expect it until we got the official letter!” 

“Yes, omg Noah got in (to Iolani for sixth grade)!!!” – Lana M., East Honolulu mother

“I was just going to send you an email. Reyn received his acceptance letter from Iolani (to seventh grade) today. He (and us) are very happy and proud of his accomplishment. Now, another week to hear from Punahou.”

“Just wanted to let you know that Reyn also received his Punahou acceptance letter. He can’t be anymore ecstatic.... Thanks again for all your assistance in prepping Reyn for these tests.” – Reid Y.

“Sorry for the delay. Getting slammed at work so forgot to scan the docs. Also sent them to the wrong email at first. Anyway, I took pics of them. Please let me know what you think the results mean. Thank you again for all your help and encouragement with Keaka. He really enjoyed tutoring and I really believe it helped him (get in to Kamehameha for seventh grade). Especially with his confidence level re: test taking and interviewing. We really appreciate it. Will be in contact with you if he needs some extra help during the school year. Mahalo nui.” – Miki Lene & ‘ohana

“You always know exactly when to follow up... Iolani’s decision letter came yesterday! I checked the mail bc of your email! Kyle got accepted (to sixth grade)!! Just waiting on Punahou for Kyle and Brody. When do those usually come in?”

“We just found out today that Devin got accepted for the 6th grade at Iolani. We met Aunty Aileen and Uncle Inder (Sanjay’s parents) last weekend. I told them you were Devin’s tutor for his SSAT, and how beneficial your tutoring was. We are still awaiting to hear from Punahou School.”

“I wanted to let you know that Chloe got accepted into Punahou (for fourth grade)! It seems a rarity occurred where they pulled from. Just heard from the school last week. FYI. Thank you, my friend! Big mahalos for all you did to help Chloe!” – Mark Nakatsukasa

“(Annaliese) received her acceptance letter (to Iolani ninth grade) today. First of the bunch. I’ll let you know as the information comes in. Thanks for everything!”

“We just opened the letter! Yes, (Addie) got in (to Iolani for seventh grade)!” 

“We just got the acceptance letter (from Iolani). Braden got in (for sixth grade)! Had 225 applicants and majority were boys.” – Heather T.

“Mia got accepted into Mid-Pacific for 7th grade. =) Thank You! I was wondering if you tutor for 7th grade math? She will be taking a placement test on April 22nd. Please let me know.” – Wendy Yamaguchi

“Yes! M___ was accepted into Iolani (for seventh grade). YAY! :)”

“I’ve been meaning to send you a note. G___ was accepted to Kamehameha and L___ was waitlisted. L___ was also waitlisted for Punahou and was accepted to Mid-Pac. We decided on ___ because we feel she will do well in that environment. We are still hoping for her to come off the waitlist for Kamehameha but if she doesn’t she will be fine at ___. G___ is super excited to finally be reunited with her twin brother! We feel really blessed! Kamehameha said L___ did really well and it came down to her essay where she got minused __ points from her total of 24 points. She only had __ minused from her report card and had a perfect interview and reference reports. We are really proud that she did as well as she did. They said the difference between many of the girls was just by tenths of a point. I guess a waitlist is better than a no. Oh and Kamehameha used a new test this year called the ISEE test. I thought you might find that interesting.” – W.A., Kapolei mother of private school transfers

“Dasha got the acceptance letter from Punahou school (for fourth grade) a few hours ago. We appreciate your help very much, your support all the time. By the way, could you please reserve time for Dasha and Steff for summertime tutoring on Sundays starting at the beginning of June 2016? If we want to see you this weekend to say Thank You, where could we meet you? Please advise. I thank you very much.” – Thu Nguyen

“I’m excited and happy to tell you that Aiden got into Punahou (for fourth grade)! We got our letter today. We couldn’t have done any of this without all your patience, help and great resources!!! I am also so grateful you encouraged Aiden to test twice. That was very good advice. Thank you again for everything.” – Kathy Ford

“We just got home. The letter of acceptance (to Punahou for fourth grade) arrived today!! Thank you for your help, we are grateful for your assistance in preparing and teaching Avery (and me)! We are so pleased!” – Alison Z.

“We got it but I’m in Colorado so I’m making V__ wait for me until Wednesday… Thumbs up (for C__ into Punahou for fourth grade)!” – D.S., Kailua mother of a private school transfer

“I don’t check my mail daily and finally checked last night after one of Alex’s friends asked him if he received a letter from Iolani. Alex got in (to Iolani for seventh grade)! Thanks for all of your help and I’ll make sure to check the mail every day this week.” Later messages: “Yes, Alex got an acceptance to Punahou too… We just got the admissions letter from MPI – Alex got in! Alex will visit Punahou on Monday, April 4 and I meet with the assistant admissions director to go over his scores, essay etc… Apparently, this is the first time they are offering conferences with the parents. I’ll let you know what he says. Alex visits Iolani on Monday, April 11.” – Lyn Utsugi

“We just received (Alessandra’s) letter from Iolani and she’s been accepted (for ninth grade)!” Later message: “We’re very happy to inform you that Ali got accepted into Punahou. Thanks for all the help!” – Cesar R.

“Thank you Kevin for working with Rylee. She was accepted to Punahou for 7th grade. Her SSAT scores improved greatly as well as her writing skills. We would recommend anyone that is looking to improve not just for Private School Admission but also for PSAT and SAT/ACT testing as well. There is something about the way you can bring so much confidence in a student.” – Tracey R., East Honolulu mother of a MS transfer

“Awesome news! Sacred Hearts Academy offered Chloe early admission with 4-year scholarship! We are blessed!” Later message: “We are so grateful! Chloe received her letter of acceptance to Punahou (for ninth grade)! We are so excited…she was in tears, I was in tears but I am so proud of her accomplishments! She worked so very hard. Punahou needs commitment by April 15. Just keeping in touch…thanks for always being sooooo supportive! Paisley is currently in 5th grade and will test for KS in the near future. I will be sure to call you to help Paisley prepare for testing… Chloe will take summer program @ Punahou. She is working with Punahou setting coach. Chloe will travel with club vball team to Florida in June. She had to cancel Phoenix and Anaheim as Punahou would only allow to miss a few days of summer program.” – Gisele Ka’ahanui

“Yes, we did. He’s in for Iolani (for sixth grade). Still waiting to hear from Punahou.” Later messages: “Kai also got into Punahou. Now we just have some decisions to make… So we finally got the (acceptance) letter from MidPac as well. Thank you so much for your help in getting him prepared. Working with you helped him focus academically and emotionally for the testing and interviews. Your method and organization of teaching is effective and efficient. He was confident and comfortable throughout the process and we couldn’t be happier with the results.” – Maria A.

“We are in Utah this week so we won’t know about acceptances until Sunday. It’s hard to wait!… Just got an email from ‘Iolani that (Chloe) got in (for sixth grade)! :)” Later message: “Oh yes. She got in (to Punahou)! Thanks for everything. All 3 kids got their 1st choices, partially due to your great teaching.” – Theresa Devere

“Good to see you this morning. Good news, Andrew got into Iolani today (for sixth grade). Thanks for all your help. I know he wouldn’t have made it without you.” Later message: “Just wanted to share the good news, Andrew got word that he also got into Punahou. However, he will be attending ___ next year.” – Mark S., East Honolulu father

“We got the admissions letter and Alyssa got in (to Punahou for seventh grade). The twins are getting stressed about the SAT. Punahou’s college counselor said they should be getting 650 based on their GPA.” – Christina Desamito

“Good news, Luke got in (to Punahou for seventh grade). Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.” – Ruthie Kaminskas

“(Anuhea) got in (to Iolani for seventh grade). We should hear from Punahou and Kamehameha in a couple of weeks. Her interview could’ve made the difference. The Punahou interviewer knows her volleyball coach.” – Alan Lore

“We wanted to update you with Shafer’s results for sixth grade admission. He was accepted to Mid-Pacific and Punahou and wait-listed for Iolani. Thank you for all your help in preparing Shafer for the SSAT with your tutoring and workbooks. Additionally, thanks for the tips with the interview process, advice on writing samples and the possible questions he would encounter. We believe that you were instrumental in preparing Shafer, Karen and I for the sixth grade admission process. We decided that Mid-Pacific will be the school that Shafer will attend next year! Go Owls!” – Kevin Kam

“The mailman delivered the Punahou packet to my mother-in-law right down the street since we weren’t home. Ella got in (for seventh grade)!!!!! Yay! We are so happy and appreciative in your help in raising Ella’s math scores!” – Janel Yoshimura

“Yes, we received the letter today (we were traveling last week). (Jaden) was accepted (to Punahou for ninth grade)! She’s in school today and doesn’t know yet, so please keep this information to yourself until tomorrow.” – John F.

“Just wanted to let you know that D__ got accepted to Iolani (for sixth grade), his first choice. I’ll let you know about Punahou and HBA in the coming week when we get their decision letters. Thanks again for working with D__! He could not have done it without your help.” Later message: “D__ got accepted into Punahou too!” – W.L., Kaneohe father of a TCS transfer

“Yes. Accepted (Kylie to HBA for ninth grade)… We also met with Iolani Admissions. Kylie was accepted to Iolani!” Later message: “Congratulations on your recent acceptance to Mid-Pacific! As a newly accepted Owl, or Pueo, we would like to invite your child to our Pueo Preview Day on Monday, April 4, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It will be a unique shadowing opportunity to visit five high school classes with one of our Student Ambassadors.” – Stacey H.

“Just got the call today. Ryan got accepted to Iolani (for seventh grade)!” – Peggy Watanabe

“Guess what? A__ got in (to Punahou for ninth grade). It was my fault that I didn’t submit her first set of SSAT scores. Punahou mentioned they won’t hunt for those scores. But she got all As in the last semester which helped her candidacy.” – S.T., Kailua mother

“This is Anna ___. I wanted to tell you that I got accepted into HBA (for ninth grade). I wanted to thank you again for all the help that you gave me. I just wanted to tell you that so you know. God bless you.” – Anna Sullivan

“Yes he did (get in to Maryknoll’s STEM/Aerospace program for ninth grade)… Just wanted to let you know that Maryknoll awarded Ethan the Sylva scholarship. It’s worth $___ and they also gave a little financial aid as well nearly covering almost the entire tuition. We’re very proud of Ethan and we owe much of his success to you. We’re so thankful and grateful for the time you’ve spent with Ethan.” – R.L., Mililani mother of a public school transfer

“Liam was waitlisted for Kamehameha and for Punahou. But it’s okay because after touring and learning more about Maryknoll’s STEM/Aerospace program, Liam’s first choice was the STEM program. Thank you for everything...” – Brenda E.

“We want to thank you for taking the time to tutor Colby. We believe the tutoring really helped him with his SSAT score for him to be accepted to Mid Pac (for sixth grade) and also Iolani wait list.” – Julie F.

“We finally received notification. Shelby was accepted to Mid Pac (for sixth grade). Thank you for all of your help.” – Wendy Kau

“(Megan) did (get in to Mid-Pacific for sixth grade)! She is waitlisted at Punahou. I already accepted at ___; they gave her money. Thank You!” – Kathy Ho

“She got accepted to Iolani school (for ninth grade). ‘This is to certify that Erika Hur having qualified in all respects is hereby admitted to Iolani School as a student in good standing in the class of 2019’ Tomorrow Erika visits Iolani for orientation(?) Thanks for everything.” Later message: “Yes. She got (into Punahou) too. The Punahou interviewer looked so happy. He said her SSAT scores were so high.” – Sunny Hur

“Btw, A__ got into MPI (for seventh grade)!! Just to let you know, H__ was selected (for fourth grade admission). He’s going to Punahou. Yipee for him, not so good for our wallet. We really didn’t prepare for admission. I was told 4th grade doesn’t move much. Actually, I think they really liked H__. I told them I didn't have any problem waiting till 6th to reapply. Thanks for all your help and advice.” – N.A., Pearl City mother of AS and PES transfers

“Thank you Kevin for the link (to kindergarten admissions info) that was helpful. Last year with my older daughter first did the N__ B__ K__ test prep books & the A__ test prep books. I did yours at the very end right before the exam dates because it was basically a summary of the other 2 major test prep books. She got into Punahou & Iolani (for kindergarten). So for my little one I’ll be doing the same.” – J.H., Kakaako mother of a preschooler

“Cynthia was accepted to Iolani (for ninth grade) – thank you so much!!!! I just got back from Japan and I am in shock a little bit. My husband and I were pleased by the test results. Cynthia gained __ points more than the October 2014 one. We were surprised by the high math score!! Cynthia was so happy and felt her mission(?!) was accomplished. Cynthia was named to the Head of School’s List. And she is now starting a basketball club and a new tennis season as well. Thank you very much for your efforts and caring. Lots of mahalo.” – Hiroko Nagano

“I hope you still remember me from last summer. I brought my twin girls for tutoring. I have some great and not so great news. One twin got accepted to Kamehameha for freshman year and the other one didn’t. But good news is that she missed the cut by 1/10 of a point (on the ERB testing)! So we were encouraged to try again for next year as an incoming sophomore. I would like to purchase reading and math test books. Please let me know what is convenient.” – Claire A.

“Hi! Isn’t (the decision letters) at the end of March? I’ll let my Dad check if he gets any mail! I’ll let you know. Did (your other students) take the upper level test?” Later message: “I just got my Dad’s news 3 mins ago!!!!! I got in (to Iolani for ninth grade)!!!!! Thank you so much for helping me with testings and essays!!!!! Thank you so so so so so so much!!!!!” – Bella Chen

“I wanted you to know T__ is going to Kamehameha (for seventh grade). After you fired us from tutoring, you gave us admission information and told us to finish the pages she didn’t do in your test prep book. Some of the kids we know scored higher, she scored in the low-90s and high-80s, but what really helped her get in is she’s so well-rounded.” – A.R., Ewa Beach mother of a private school transfer

“D__ got in (to Punahou for fourth grade after being in the waitpool for 4 years). We were getting worried as the letter took a while to come in. His (SSAT Elementary) scores were 90%iles and an 80%ile. While testing he thought he was stronger than the other applicants. We didn’t get another tutor, but it got so busy that I just had him do some analogies, synonyms and reading material on Kindle.” – L.C., East Honolulu mother of a KS transfer

“I just received an e–mail from Iolani, Eli was accepted (for sixth grade)! He is very excited. Attached are Eli’s scores for the Jan. 2015 test. He did a little better the 2nd time around.” Later message: “Yes, he got in (to Punahou)! I am convinced that it was your excellent test prep materials that made the difference! We are so proud of him! Quite an accomplishment to get into all three of his top schools! He is still undecided between Iolani and Punahou, but we will keep you posted and let you know what he decides!” – Jennifer Martin