The hibiscus flower is, in many ways, a perfect symbol of the APIS way of international education. As the national flower of South Korea and the state flower of Hawai‘i, the hibiscus symbolizes the link between the two schools (Seoul and Hawai‘i) bonded under one educational philosophy. APIS students can literally move back and forth between the East and the West to develop unique perspectives and to engage in authentic global learning contexts.

Also, the hibiscus symbolizes the entrepreneurial and innovative spirit of APIS education. The hibiscus is known as a flower to signify “seize the opportunity” because it wilts in just a day, but new flowers continue to bloom for an extended period. The Korean name for hibiscus, 무궁화 (mugunghwa), means a flower that never wilts. While the hibiscus may look like its flowers never wilt, new bulbs are continually replacing the old. Like a hibiscus that sustains its beauty by constant rejuvenation, APIS is committed to an innovative, “outside-the-box” way of education.

Finally, the hibiscus flower is known as a complete flower with all four essential components for reproduction: sepals, petals, stamens, and pistils. Likewise, our educational philosophy has four essential elements: the APIS mission at the center with three supporting components. These components are the Core-Curricular Emphases, the Key Character Strengths, and the New Pacific Century (NPC) Skills.

Core Curricular Emphases

• East Asian Studies
• Performing and Visual Arts
• STEM
• Spiritual Growth

Key Character Strengths

• Aspiration
• Perseverance
• Integrity
• Selflessness

New Pacific Century Skills & Dispositions

• Communication
• Collaboration
• Critical Thinking
• Citizenship