Maui Prep Community Rallies to Clear Campus Following Hurricane Lala

The storm left behind widespread damage, including fallen tree branches across the grounds, displaced shingles, and a completely destroyed shade structure over the lanai behind the Otto Administration building.

Initial reports suggested school would likely be canceled until the campus could be safely cleared, prompting Maui Prep families to quickly mobilize in a massive volunteer effort. Benny Martin, father of Penny '38 and Milo '40, dispatched his entire Surf and Turf Landscapes crew equipped with chainsaws and leaf blowers, rapidly clearing downed trees and heavy debris.

A dedicated group of administrators, staff, board members, and parents joined the cleanup effort, including Board of Trustees President Mark Merrill (Milo '29), Trustee Tim Hehemann, Dr. Solis (Noah '34), Director of Performing Arts Nathalie Smith, Admissions Director Ava Merrill '20, Facilities Manager Hector Salas, Victor Andrade, and PTSO board heads Brianne Randle (Ryder '33, Avila '37) and Alexis Brunold (Maddox '36) alongside parents Matt Smith (Kai '35, Jacksen '30), Al and Karli Haar (Staley '34), Justin Brunold, Race Randle, Christian Frye, and Michael Hainsworth (Indie '29, Evie '32).

Thanks to the coordinated community response, the campus was fully cleared and reset. Power was restored by 6:00 p.m., allowing school officials to deem the campus safe to reopen on schedule. Maui Prep extends its deepest gratitude to every volunteer who answered the call to help restore the grounds.