Monthly Archives: April 2024

TWO MODELS OF AHONUI

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Ua ahonui nō ʻoe i nā pōpilikia.

You have been patient in the times of trouble

Pukui, Mary Kawena, Elbert, Samuel H. (1965). Hawaiian Dictionary

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: AHONUI

Within a few short months following an announcement that he had cancer, Senator Spark Masayuki Matsunaga passed away. Beloved for his steadfast service, Senator Matsunaga would be difficult to follow. His approach to passing legislation embodied ahonui. When he singlehandedly convinced Congress to establish a U.S. Peace Institute, it culminated over 20 years of quietly lobbying and laying the groundwork for its passage. Similarly, he is credited for leading the charge to pass the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. Even as his health was beginning to fail, he personally met with every senator and garnered an unprecedented 75 co-sponsors for the bill, ensuring it would not be defeated. So when he died, Governor Waiheʻe rushed to fill his spot with someone of similar caliber.

At the time of Senator Matsunaga’s passing, Daniel K Akaka was a US Representative in Congress. Like Matsunaga, Akaka approached his work with ahonui and aloha. He once noted, “I am not a born politician. People tell me I have to be feisty to get my way in Congress. But that’s not my style. I use my Hawaiian abilities and the spirit of Aloha that brings people together.” During his time in the House, then Representative Akaka dedicatedly lobbied for Native Hawaiian issues and securing funding for our state. Hence, when the governor asked Akaka to serve out Senator Matsunaga’s term, Akaka asked for time. Advancing to the Senate meant greater prestige and opportunities to make personal gains. However, Akaka sat on the powerful House Appropriations Committee and knew if he left too soon, bills advantageous to Hawaiʻi might fail. So, as in many other instances in his life, Akaka put others before himself. He considered the bigger picture and how he could help more people. Akaka practiced ahonui and asked that his confirmation to the Senate be delayed.

Sources: 

https://encyclopedia.densho.org/Spark_Matsunaga/#cite_note-ftnt_ref3-4

https://sci.manoa.hawaii.edu/programs/matsunaga-institute-for-peace/about/

https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/GPO-CDOC-108hdoc226/pdf/GPO-CDOC-108hdoc226-2-4-9.pdf

5 PURSUITS of AHONUI:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch A Chair for My Mother  written and illustrated by Vera B. Williams. Then with you child, answer the following:

  • IDENTITY: Talk with your kupuna about something your ʻohana saved money to buy or to do. How long did it take? How did they save the money?
  • SKILLS: Why was the chair important to the main character and her family? Predict what they will do with the money they save next.
  • INTELLECT: The main character and her mother practiced perseverance and frugality as they saved up for their arm chair. Look up the definitions of perseverance and frugality. Use them in a story of your own.
  • CRITICALITY: In the story, the community helped the main character’s family after their home burned down just as our school has raised money through the Fun Run to help a school in Lahaina. Why is it important to help others who experience misfortune and disaster?
  • JOY:  Make a homemade bank and save money for something you want to buy in the future.

PLEASE DRIVE WITH ALOHA

Last week, our amazing volunteers along Mokulele noted that one parent has been driving along the wrong side of the street to drop their children and another nearly caused an accident after making an illegal u-turn. Auwe.

Please remember that we all want to get our children to school safely and on-time. Please obey all traffic rules and to always drive with aloha – meaning show ahonui (patience) and akahai (grace and kindness). Mahalo nui loa for your help in keeping our roads and driveways safe for our keiki.

CONTINUED PRACTICES:

NOʻAHUNA OF ALOHA

See Uncle Pono Shim explain the Noʻahuna, the esoteric meaning, of Aloha as taught to him by Aunty Pilahi, the Keeper of Secrets.

WEAR PINK FOR MAUI WEDNESDAYS

Join us in letting “that light, that divine inspiration that Aunty Pilahi Paki says is given to you at your very beginning, come through and let your ALOHA join with the ALOHA of the collective to bring about healing.” 

DAILY VIRTUAL PIKO

At the Daily Piko, we share thoughts on the Aloha value for the week which helps us become centered and ready to learn. We begin at 8 AM everyday except Wednesdays.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Apr 22 – May 10Smarter Balance Assessment testing
Wed, May 15 PM KES School Community Council Meeting
Fri, May 3Waiver Day – No Students
Sat, May 118:30 – 11:30 AM Campus Beautification
Fri, May 17May Day

HAʻAHAʻA AND BEING RIGHT

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Kuʻia ka hele a ka naʻau haʻahaʻa. #1870

Hesitant walks the humble hearted.

A humble person walks carefully so he will not hurt those about him.

Pukui, Mary Kawena, (1983). ʻŌlelo Noʻeau

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: HAʻAHAʻA

Ever hear the idiom, “There’s more than one way to skin a cat”? Besides the perplexing or disturbing image that phrase conjures, I believe our STEM Hōʻike more than exemplifies its meaning. Consistent across each grade level, students were given similar problems to solve yet came up with unique, innovative, creative solutions. No two paper houses in kindergarten looked the same. Each had different design features that guarded against the wind. The same went for the catapults in first grade. Many successfully launched their projective yet each were built differently. Our second graders distinctly constructed barriers to withstand soil erosion. Third graders each had their take on how to best filter debris and particles in water to eventually yield potable water. One third grade class highlighted the myriad of ways to design a hydroelectric water wheel. Fourth graders had their exclusive approach to designing ʻeke (bags) that could carry essentials. Fifth grader showed their creativity in designing a variety of fun and challenging games with just a little bit of cardboard and tape. Meanwhile sixth graders had the freedom to apply the Engineering Design Process to any challenge they encountered in everyday life. Even our preschoolers showed their prowess at problem-solving by designing boats that float and hold cargo without sinking. Seeing how every student/group had their own unique spin on their engineering challenge, validates that there is no one right way. Acknowledging this takes haʻahaʻa.

Too often, especially in traditional, Western education, we approach a task thinking there is only one correct answer and only one correct way to get to that answer. And while it might be true there’s one correct answer when we are solving a simple math problem, there’s often many different ways to get that answer. Further, real life problems are much more complex with a multitude of different “right” answers and solution approaches. Even when constrained by limited resources, design solutions are only bounded by our creativity and willingness to try new things (and fail in the process). When we haʻahaʻa we empty ourselves – even if temporarily – of judgements, fears and our own ego so that we can be more open and receptive to ideas, even the ones coming from within. 

In the case of our STEM Hōʻike, we have been honing that skill of accepting failure as part of the learning process. From Silver Linings Day to the Engineering Design Process, we strive to have students release any fear of failure damaging their ego. Instead, we endeavor for students to see learning and making improvements from failure as an asset, a sign of perseverance. And in part, STEM Hōʻike gives us a window into seeing kids demonstrate this mindset.

Mahalo to their teachers for all of the thought, planning, and perspiration into ensuring their students were prepared for the event. Their efforts, as seen through the actions of their students, shone bright. Mahalo nui loa to Karen Kimura for organizing the STEM Hōʻike and most of all for supporting our teachers in helping them and their students attain success.

5 PURSUITS of HAʻAHAʻA:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

In honor of Earth Day, please watch Wonder Walkers  written and illustrated by Micha Archer. Then with you child, answer the following:

  • IDENTITY: How is nature or the ʻāina important to you and your ʻohana?
  • SKILLS: The children use figurative language (personification) as they wonder about different things they see on their walk. Share your favorite and tell why.
  • INTELLECT: Research the origins of Earth Day and it’s significance to mālama ʻāina.
  • CRITICALITY: Share why you think it’s important to mālama ʻāina.
  • JOY:  Go on a Wonder Walk at a favorite outdoor space and come up with your own wonderings.

SMARTER BALANCE TESTING

Our school will begin our Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) testing for hāumana in grades 3-6 on Monday, April 22, through May 14, 2024, with make-up test sessions to follow. For those in testing grades, it is important that your keiki is well-rested, eats a healthy breakfast, and arrives to school on time daily during this testing period.

Please note that if haumāna are tardy, they will be sent to the library and unable to take the assessment on that day. We kindly ask for your kōkua to ensure that your child is punctual, especially during the testing period.

Additionally, please have your keiki bring their headphones to school as they may be required for certain portions of the assessment.

Mahalo nui for kōkua and support in helping to create the best testing environment for our haumāna. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us—Aloha nui iā kākou.

CONTINUED PRACTICES:

NOʻAHUNA OF ALOHA

See Uncle Pono Shim explain the Noʻahuna, the esoteric meaning, of Aloha as taught to him by Aunty Pilahi, the Keeper of Secrets.

WEAR PINK FOR MAUI WEDNESDAYS

Join us in letting “that light, that divine inspiration that Aunty Pilahi Paki says is given to you at your very beginning, come through and let your ALOHA join with the ALOHA of the collective to bring about healing.” 

DAILY VIRTUAL PIKO

At the Daily Piko, we share thoughts on the Aloha value for the week which helps us become centered and ready to learn. We begin at 8 AM everyday except Wednesdays.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Apr 22 – May 10Smarter Balance Assessment testing
Wed, May 15 PM KES School Community Council Meeting
Fri, May 3Waiver Day – No Students
Sat, May 118:30 – 11:30 AM Campus Beautification
Fri, May 17May Day

ʻOLUʻOLU AND RESILIENCE

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E ʻoluʻolu i ka mea i loaʻa. #367

Be contented with what one has.

Pukui, Mary Kawena, (1983). ʻŌlelo Noʻeau

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: ʻOLUʻOLU

When we decided to have Aloha serve as the foundation of our school wide behavior expectations, one of the criticisms I heard was, “Aloha doesn’t solve all our problems. It won’t stop kids from bullying.” It was as they were implying that practicing Aloha was seen as a sign of weakness; a feeble shield against a slew of arrows…or perhaps a soggy apology compared to a merciless, belittling tongue lashing.

Yet, as an educator of 31 years and a father of young adults, I have seen the longterm after effects of discipline without Aloha. I have also witnessed the transformative power of aloha in both adults and students. But, Aloha is a discipline. It takes practice and intention. And when applied correctly, it empowers the victim while educating the offender. 

Several years ago, two students approached me, complaining that their classmate was bullying them. While their teacher was working with other students, the classmate would surreptitiously kick them and say things to intimidate them. At first I attempted to use traditional forms of discipline: detention, scolding, suspension. However, none of these practices seemed to have an effect as the incidences continued after temporarily pausing following each punishment. Finally, I decided to attempt a different approach.

I gathered the three students and had a conversation. The two who felt bullied shared how they were made to feel. The classmate then shared that he didn’t know why he picked on others and seemed to imply that he couldn’t control his impulses. When asked what the classmate could do to make things right, they both said they wanted an apology and a promise never to do it again which the classmate readily did. However, I suspected he could not keep that promise. So I asked all parties if we could do something to assist the classmate in keeping his promise. They agreed and we came up with a system where we would meet every week and rate the classmate’s demonstration of his promise. After meeting weekly for the remainder of the year, the classmate stopped picking on the two students, or any other students for that matter.

Nothing punitive was needed to change behavior. But the two students needed to feel like they had control over what was happening. By having voice and providing feedback, they were no longer victims. By receiving feedback and seeing the two students as empowered individuals, the classmate was able to control his impulses to pick on others. All experienced ʻoluʻolu the gentle, yet strong backbone of Aloha. The two students stood up for themselves and were honest in their weekly ratings. The classmate was not belittled or shamed. Instead, he was given the information he needed to improve, for which he became proud to do by the end.

Uncle Pono Shim once told me that Aloha is not a weapon to wield against others. It is kind, compassionate, and patient – but it is certainly not weak. Anything unbreakable such as Aloha can never be weak.

5 PURSUITS of ʻOLUʻOLU:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

In honor of this week’s STEM Hōʻike, please watch The Most Magnificent Idea written and illustrated by Ashley Spires. Then with you child, answer the following:

  • IDENTITY: Share with you ʻohana about your STEM Hōʻike project and how you needed to persevere through failures and mistakes as you attempted to come up with a solution.
  • SKILLS: Provide examples from the story that demonstrates the girl’s perseverance.
  • INTELLECT: Research inventors who are from Hawaiʻi and how they changed the world.
  • CRITICALITY: Think of a ʻMagnificent Idea’ that can improve our community and help others be safe and thrive.
  • JOY:  As an ohana visit a Makerspace for keiki either at the Liliha Public Library or at Vivstop Honolulu (offers free membership).

HEARING HEALTH – ACT NOW TO PREVENT PERMANENT DAMAGE

Did you know that 1 in every 8 kids between the ages of 6 and 19 already have hearing damage from loud noises? Especially while your children are young, you can prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) and avoid permanent damage to their hearing.

CONTINUED PRACTICES:

NOʻAHUNA OF ALOHA

See Uncle Pono Shim explain the Noʻahuna, the esoteric meaning, of Aloha as taught to him by Aunty Pilahi, the Keeper of Secrets.

WEAR PINK FOR MAUI WEDNESDAYS

Join us in letting “that light, that divine inspiration that Aunty Pilahi Paki says is given to you at your very beginning, come through and let your ALOHA join with the ALOHA of the collective to bring about healing.” 

DAILY VIRTUAL PIKO

At the Daily Piko, we share thoughts on the Aloha value for the week which helps us become centered and ready to learn. We begin at 8 AM everyday except Wednesdays.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tue, Apr 16Optional K-5 Spring Pictures & 6th Grade Promotion Pictures
Fri, Apr 19 2:10 – 3:05 PM STEM Hōʻike Ohana Visitation
Apr 22 – May 10Smarter Balance Assessment testing
Fri, May 3Waiver Day – No Students
Sat, May 118:30 – 11:30 AM Campus Beautification
Fri, May 17May Day

LŌKAHI AND THE NEED FOR ATTENTION

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He waiwai nui ka lokahi #977

Unity is a precious possession

Pukui, Mary Kawena, (1983). ʻŌlelo Noʻeau

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: LŌKAHI

Did you know that April is World Autism Awareness Month? It is also National Humor Month, National Poetry Month, National Soft Pretzel Month, and Distracted Driving Awareness Month along with a slew of other observances for the month of April. With so many causes vying for attention, it can be difficult for any one to emerge and gain recognition. But maybe focusing all our attention on one is not the point. Maybe our attention goes to what is pertinent in any given instance.

Ryan rarely spoke up in class. He often sat quietly with his head down, avoiding eye contact. His demeanor paled when compared to that of his classmates. Albert would not sit still and rarely stopped talking to his neighbors. Rob constantly pounded his chest, asking others, “What you looking at?” Peter sat front and center, stared at me as he made a string of snarky comments, eliciting snickers from the rest of the class. Ashlyn too possessed a wealth of sarcasm, but laced it with all the correct answers to every question I asked. 

As a first year teacher, it took me a while to figure out that I shouldn’t divide my attention. At first, I struggled to make everyone happy…a fool’s journey. I couldn’t extinguish every fire as it erupted. As soon as I got Albert to sit and listen, I had to break up the brewing fracas between Rob and Peter. If I tried to acknowledge Ashlyn’s contributions, Peter took offense and began wising off. Meanwhile Ryan faded into the background.

Eventually, I realized that what all of my students wanted was attention. They wanted to know that I cared and was willing to work with them. Because of their personalities, this didn’t occur all at once, but everyone was given their time. While they worked on their assignments, I’d sit with each. I found out about their families, their dreams, and their talents. This was not a cure all, Ryan still remained quiet, Albert hyper, Rob belligerent, Peter mocking, and Ashlyn condescending. However, I was able to get my students to care a bit more and learn.

5 PURSUITS of LŌKAHI:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch Emile and the Field written by Kevin Young and illustrated by Chioma Ebinama. Then with you child, answer the following:

  • IDENTITY: Talk with your kupuna about a special place you and your family treasures.
  • SKILLS: The author uses different examples of figurative language to show the beauty of the field. Identify several examples of figurative language in the book.
  • INTELLECT: Research Prince Kuhio’s efforts to establish a Hawaiʻi National Park, preserving the volcanoes of Hawaiʻi and Haleakala as natural historic landmarks.
  • CRITICALITY: Emile’s father tells Emile, “Though they too love it, if we share, and learn to take care, it means the field will be here forever.” How might we help others learn to take care of the places special to us in our community?
  • JOY:  Participate in a clean-up of a special place in our community such as Luluku Farm (Aina Aloha o na Lima Hana) which occurs on the first Saturday of each month. Other community clean-ups can be found at https://808cleanups.org/calendar/.

HOʻOMAIKAʻI BRYSON & NIXON 

Please join me in congratulating and showing appreciation to Nixon Ihu and Bryson Tanji for representing Kāneʻohe Elementary well at the Hawaiʻi State Science and Engineering Fair. Their project, the Tako Box, utilized the Engineering Design Process in innovating a tool used to hunt octopus.  Mahalo nui loa for making us proud

MAHALO KES OHANA FOR A SUCCESSFUL CLOTHING DRIVE 

While we still have yet to find out how many pounds of clothing we collected, I would like to thank all of our community for cleaning out their closets and making a donation to our school. In the end, it certainly looked like we exceeded the 3000 lb minimum! Regardless if we did or not, the donations will be put to good use, helping those in need. Further, our volunteers from our KES Ohana throughout the week and on Saturday, assisting with the collection certainly showed how dedicated they are to our school. We certainly owe them a debt of gratitude!

IT SURE LOOKS LIKE PHONES ARE MAKING STUDENTS DUMBER

Continuing with a series from The Atlantic, a report from the Program for International Student Assessment, found three factors that are causing a global decrease in test scores:

“students who spend less than one hour of “leisure” time on digital devices a day at school scored about 50 points higher in math than students whose eyes are glued to their screens more than five hours a day.”

“screens seem to create a general distraction throughout school, even for students who aren’t always looking at them…students reported feeling distracted by their classmates’ digital habits scored lower in math”

“nearly half of students across the OECD said that they felt “nervous” or “anxious” when they didn’t have their digital devices near them. (On average, these students also said they were less satisfied with life.) This phone anxiety was negatively correlated with math scores.”

“Studies have shown that students on their phone take fewer notes and retain less information from class, that “task-switching” between social media and homework is correlated with lower GPAs, that students who text a lot in class do worse on tests, and that students whose cellphones are taken away in experimental settings do better on tests. As Haidt, a psychologist, has written in The Atlantic, the mere presence of a smartphone in our field of vision is a drain on our focus. Even a locked phone in our pocket or on the table in front of us screams silently for the shattered fragments of our divided attention.” Read the full article here.

CONTINUED PRACTICES:

NOʻAHUNA OF ALOHA

See Uncle Pono Shim explain the Noʻahuna, the esoteric meaning, of Aloha as taught to him by Aunty Pilahi, the Keeper of Secrets.

WEAR PINK FOR MAUI WEDNESDAYS

Join us in letting “that light, that divine inspiration that Aunty Pilahi Paki says is given to you at your very beginning, come through and let your ALOHA join with the ALOHA of the collective to bring about healing.” 

DAILY VIRTUAL PIKO

At the Daily Piko, we share thoughts on the Aloha value for the week which helps us become centered and ready to learn. We begin at 8 AM everyday except Wednesdays.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Fri, Apr 19, 2024 2:10 – 3:05 PM STEM Hōʻike Ohana Visitation
Apr 22 – May 10Smarter Balance Assessment testing