Date: Wed, 05 Nov 2003

Aloha kakou. As you may have heard from our local media, Kamehameha Schools is being sued as a result of allegations of sexual harassment raised by a former student and her mother. They are being represented by attorney David Simons.

According to KS legal records, this situation occurred years ago and was thoroughly investigated at the time. Both of the young people involved received counseling. Both subsequently left Kamehameha. In the years since, Kamehameha Schools has followed professional guidance in assisting the girl, including paying for treatment and educational support.

It is unfortunate that Mr. Simons is attempting to capitalize on the current allegations involving students at Kamehameha Schools to bring a lawsuit over a situation that occurred several years ago, and one in which Kamehameha Schools did everything it could to support and assist his client. In addition, many
of the allegations in Mr. Simons' complaint are simply not true and will be addressed in court.

As you well know, Kamehameha Schools has a policy prohibiting sexual harassment and is committed to providing a learning environment free from all types of harassment.

The current allegations involving videotapes and Kamehameha students are very serious. They affect the future of the students involved, and they require a thorough and balanced review. That review is underway; it will be completed shortly. If any disciplinary actions are appropriate, they will be implemented in a confidential manner between the students involved and Kamehameha Schools.

We appreciate the patience that most people have shown in this matter. The actions that are taken will affect the lives of these young people for many years to come. We take seriously the responsibility to make decisions based on the facts gathered and thoroughly investigated.

Mahalo for your continued support of Kamehameha Schools.

Colleen Wong
Acting Chief Executive Officer