.5 elective credit (A-F), M-F 8am-10am at DMS

Open to grades 9-12. No prerequisite. 

Course overview

This course immerses high school students in the evolving world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), exploring its core concepts, tools, and real-world applications. Through interactive lessons and hands-on projects, students will experiment with AI-driven platforms such as ChatGPT, Magic School AI, Gemini, Canva, DALL·E, CodeHS, and code.org. They will develop practical skills in AI-generated text, image creation, video editing, and machine learning while examining AI’s impact on society and ethical considerations. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in AI and its transformative role in the modern world.

.5 elective credit (A-F), M-F 10am-12pm at DMS

Open to grades 9-12. No prerequisite. 

Course overview
Students learn about physical, mental, emotional and social health to improve and maintain their health, prevent disease and reduce risky behaviors. 

.5 elective credit (A-F), M-F 8am-10am at DMS

Open to grades 9-12. No prerequisite. 

Course overview
Learn the basic steps of hula.  Students will learn simple oli, hula (ancient and contemporary) as well as the Hawaiian language.  No experience is necessary.  This course is open to both boys and girls.

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00–10:00 a.m.

• Cost: $500

High School Credit: Students who complete the course and earn a passing grade will receive high school credit.

.5 elective credit (Credit/No Credit), M/W 8:00-10am at DMS

Open to grades 9-12. No prerequisite.

Course overview
This course is designed to build strong SAT fundamentals across both Math and Verbal, with an emphasis on core concepts, test strategy, and efficient problem-solving. The goal is to help students raise their SAT scores and confidence while building the skills needed for higher score ranges. We also focus on helping students understand how the test is constructed, so they can approach questions more strategically. The course is designed to be rigorous but supportive, giving students repeated practice with the core skills that drive score growth.

Math coverage
• Algebra and linear equations
• Advanced algebra and functions
• Problem solving and data analysis
• Geometry and trigonometry foundations
• Calculator and non-calculator strategy
• Digital SAT question formats and timing strategy

Verbal coverage
• Reading comprehension across literature, history, social science, and science passages
• Evidence-based reading and reasoning
• Grammar and standard English conventions
• Rhetorical skills and revision questions
• Vocabulary in context
• Digital SAT passage and question strategies

Schedule and structure
• 6 weeks total
• 2 days per week (for example, Tuesday/Thursday)
• 2 hours per class (for example, 8–10 AM)

.5 elective credit (A-F), Online & Asynchronous through Honolulu Community College

Open to grades 11-12. Prerequisites: Acceptance into HCC as Early Admission (form), qualifying score on EdReady assessment of 75 or SAT ERBW score of 510 or ACT score of 18. Seats are limited.  Additional forms required.

Cost: $650 (includes REQUIRED weekly support touchpoints with Damien staff)

Course overview

An introduction to the unique aspects of the native point of view in Hawaiʻi and in the larger Pacific with regards to origins, language, religion, land, art, history, and modern issues. (3 hrs. lect. per week). Conducted online at student's own schedule within a time frame established by the instructor (ASYNC). This section is S-Focus (SF), meaning that a significant portion of the assignments and content will concentrate on issues of sustainability. This HAP-focus course fulfills the HAP-focus graduation requirement (3 UH credits) for HCC's AA degree and UH Manoa's baccalaureate requirements.

.5 elective credit (Credit/No Credit), M-F 8am-12pm (variable depending on internship)

Open to grades 10-12. No prerequisite. Students must provide their own transportation to and from their internship location.

Course overview

The Internship Seminar is designed to help students maximize their summer internship experience.  Students will learn everything from professional attire and etiquette, to computer applications that may be helpful in the workplace. Through discussion-based sessions, students will engage with and learn from each other, as well as reflect on their own experiences.  

Students may find their own internships or we can work to find one for them.  Please reach out if your child in need of an internship site.

Schedule: Internship hours and meeting times will vary based on the student’s field assignment and placement requirements.

Throughout the internship, students will set goals, track hours and responsibilities, and reflect on their learning through required check-ins and assignments (such as journals, progress updates, and a final reflection or presentation).

• Eligibility: Open to Damien high school students ONLY

• Credit: Students who complete all course requirements and earn a passing grade will receive high school credit.

• Cost: $500

.5 elective credit (A-F), M-F 8am-10am at DMS

Open to grades 9-12. No prerequisite. 

Course overview
Students participate in a comprehensive PE program consisting of skill development, lead up games, team sports, and physical fitness activities. Students receive instruction in rules, skills and strategies of different sports to promote a spirit of cooperation, leadership, fair play and friendly competition.

.5 elective credit (A-F), Online & Asynchronous through Honolulu Community College

June 8 to July 31, 2026 (8-wk timeframe to complete coursework)

Open to grades 11-12. Prerequisites: Acceptance into HCC as Early Admission (form), qualifying score on EdReady assessment of 75 or SAT ERBW score of 510 or ACT score of 18. Seats are limited. Additional forms required.

Cost: $650 (includes REQUIRED weekly support touchpoints with Damien staff)

Course overview
This online and asynchronous course introduces students to the basic principles of human communication. Perceptual processes, cultural awareness, verbal and nonverbal communication, and effective listening techniques are discussed. Students also receive practice in improving their competency in the areas of informative and persuasive speaking, and in interpersonal and small group communication. (3 hrs. lect. per week) Conducted online at student's own schedule within a time frame established by the instructor (ASYNC).

.5 elective credit (Credit/No Credit), M-F 8:30-12:30pm at Honolulu Community College

June 12-July 18, 2026

Open to grades 9-12. No prerequisite. 

Includes transportation to and from HCC from DMS (Leaves DMS at 8am and leaves HCC at 12:45pm)

Course overview
Summer CTE Academy is a five week exploratory summer program that offers high school students the opportunity to experience various career and technical education programs offered at Honolulu Community College. The 2026 Summer CTE Academy is open to all high school students (Class of 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029). Through lab work, group projects, lectures and assignments, students will explore the technical fields related to trades and services from a wide range of subjects, including automotive, computer networking and support, early childhood education, music, fashion, welding, and more! 

Participants will rotate through three different modules lasting for seven days each.  As the attendees complete CTE Academy projects, they will gain insights into which career and technical education field best match their abilities and interests.

Attendees will be exposed to a college environment, be able to identify general campus resources, demonstrate knowledge of college procedures, discuss the definition of success, and evaluate their academic and life goals!

.5 elective credit (Credit/No Credit), T/Th 8:00-11am at DMS

Open to grades high school students with a valid Hawaiʻi learner driving permit

Course overviewThis course includes classroom and Behind-the-Wheel instruction.  Wong Way Driving Academy is a State-certified driver's education course, consisting of the following requirements:

• 30 hour classroom instruction

• 6 hour Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) instruction

  • Hawaii State law also requires teens to complete an additional 50 hours (40 daytime, 10 nighttime) of supervised practice with your parents. These additional 50 hours do NOT need to be completed BEFORE the start of the classroom session.

  • The 50 hour Affidavit will need to be completed AND notarized in order for the instructor to issue the BTW certificate.

Upon successful completion of these courses, students shall receive BOTH classroom and BTW certificates.

On January 9, 2006, Hawaii law established a three-stage graduated licensing program for drivers under the age of 18. The program allows beginning drivers to develop their driving skills over time as they gain experience and maturity. Key elements of the new “provisional” stage include limits on unsupervised late-night driving and the number of passengers allowed during unsupervised driving.

In order for teen drivers (ages 15½ through 17) to become eligible to sit for the Hawaii State driver's license road examination, teens must satisfactorily complete a State certified driver’s education course and possess the classroom and behind-the-wheel certificates.

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To learn more about the Hawaii Graduated Licensing Program, click here.