Monthly Archives: October 2024

LŌKAHI AND UNDISCOVERED CONNECTIONS

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Lōkahi, often translated as unity and expressed with a feeling of harmony, helps us understand that all of us are part of a life force that is unbroken, even when some of us feel separated from the group. With lōkahi, we support and accept each other in acknowledgement of this unbrokenness and work together in love.

Aloha At Home

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: LŌKAHI

This is how you know I’m old. I grew up in a time before Spam musubi. In fact, some of my friends who were not of Japanese ancestry didn’t even know what was a musubi. When I brought one for lunch they asked, “What’s that?” I thought they were crazy. I assumed we all ate the same food and were exposed to the same cultural traditions. At the same time, they stared at me in disbelief when I had not heard of meat jun, bibingka or squid luau. We marveled over the smells of each other’s foods. No one wanted to try my natto and I had a difficult time with bagaong, but we all agreed on the deliciousness of the foods we dared to taste. 

Food opened our eyes to new worlds, expanding our palates. Yet, it was not what bonded us. What made us friends ran a lot deeper. We all liked trying new things, especially if one us considered the experience a must. We weren’t afraid to be temporarily repulsed and gave everything a second or third chance before totally dismissing it. 

This shared value was something hidden to us at first. Before we were friends, we started off as a bunch of boys playing chase every recess. We zigged-n-zagged across the field without even knowing each other’s names. Eventually a few of us tired of running after each other and suggested inventing our own games. Some guys wanted to continue playing chase and peeled away to form their own group. Those of us who wanted to play something more novel, moved over to the monkey bars. Over time, recess extended to hanging out after school. We walked to each other’s houses and played until the sun slipped below the Waianae range. We stayed for dinner, trying delicacies considered ordinary by our hosts. 

As a kid, I never considered what connected us. I just knew we had fun together and enjoyed each other’s company. Looking back, I realize the lōkahi – the undiscovered connections – we shared, made us compatible as friends. It helped us become closer while prompting us to grow as individuals. Eventually, we went to different schools, moved apart, and lost touch. Yet, despite this distance, our friendship; our aloha remains with me to this day.

5 PURSUITS of LŌKAHI:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S.K. Ali, art by Hatem Aly. Then with you child, answer the following:

  • IDENTITY: Discuss with a kupuna, how does your family/culture celebrate when you are getting older and becoming an adult?
  • SKILLS: What is your favorite way Faizah describes her sister’s hijab? Explain how Faizah’s description paints a vivid picture of her sister’s hijab.
  • INTELLECT: Research what is a hijab and it’s significance to people who wear them.
  • CRITICALITY: Faizah’s mother told her and Asiya not to carry around the hurtful words of others. What does it look like to drop the words? What does it mean that they are not yours to keep and belong only to those who said them?
  • JOY: Faizah and Asiya share a deep connection in that they have a strong pride in cultural traditions and in celebrating each other. Share with a family member why you are proud of them.

LIVE ALOHA KĀKOU

In 1993, community leaders and kupuna gathered to answer a simple question: how do we create a culture of positive and responsible action?

They agreed upon a set of twelve actions that each would take, and encourage others to carry out. In committing to this, they believed all of Hawaiʻi could begin to create the kind of community we value.

This week, Kāneʻohe Elementary once again renews its commitment to Live Aloha. You will receive the list of twelve actions as well as a Live Aloha sticker. From this list of twelve actions, there are no minimum commitments. Take what you need, give what you can. All we ask is that each of us strive to Live Aloha.

KES OHANA PUMPKIN CARVING

Mahalo to our KES Ohana for sponsoring a spookily fun pumpkin carving night this past weekend. We appreciate all of the ʻohana that attended the event, dressed up and got into the spirit of the event. Mahalo nui loa to all the volunteers that made this event possible including the Acopan ʻohana, the Kamiya ʻohana, Dee Fujinaka, Kumu Kalei Tim Sing and Cherisse Yamada. 

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 KĀNEʻOHE SHIRT WEDNESDAYS

Help us build unity and show our lōkahi by wearing a shirt that celebrates Kāneʻohe on Wednesdays. Wear any previous Fun Run or grade level shirt.

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

Oct 28 – Nov 8ʻOhana Conferences – school ends at 12:45 PM
Nov 22Waiver Day – no students

AKAHAI AND GIVING FROM THE HEART

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Aka, with care, and hai, to speak. To be tender of heart; meek

Andrews, Hawaiian Dictionary, 1865

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: AKAHAI

During the summer before my senior year, one of my friends asked a few of us if we would like to work with him on a cruise ship. It was just once-a-week, lunch would be included and the pay was a little above minimum wage. Broke and in need of gas and going out money, how could I say no? 

So bright and early every Saturday morning, following just a few hours of sleep due to my belonging to a mid-night bowling league, I’d arrive at the ship docked off of Aloha Tower. My friends and I embarked, headed to a freezing cold meeting room below deck where waist high piles of hand marked surveys sat before us. Our job was to go through each survey that documented how passengers felt about the variety of on-board experiences and tally up their ratings. A mind numbing task, we motivated ourselves by striving to get our stacks counted well before the other groups of people. Typically the job lasted into early afternoon when we would be treated to a lunch buffet similar to what the passengers would experience. It was my first time eating anything not found on a Rainbow’s plate lunch like poached salmon or vichyssoise, a cold potato soup. Over that summer and into the fall semester, my savings account slowly grew as did my waistline.

When Christmas came around, for once I felt like I could buy my family and friends some really nice presents all on my own. In the weeks leading up to winter break, I would go straight from work to Ala Moana to check off my long list of Christmas gifts. I went from store to store, speedily buying things with as much gusto as I put into tallying surveys. Mainly looking at the prices, I strived to buy things of a certain value. By the time I completed shopping, my bank account was nearly empty. Yet, I felt so grown up, so accomplished for earning my own money and buying my own quality presents. 

When the last day of school arrived, my friends and I traded gifts, generously showering each other. While I felt thankful at the time, I did not fully appreciate the sacrifices some of my friends made to afford buying a present for everyone in our group. Many of them worked jobs much harder than mine and got paid way less. 

As I crossed campus with arms full of presents, I bumped into TJ, one of my old friends whom I no longer hung out with but still had great affection. I wished him a Merry Christmas, but felt bad for not having something to give to him. Looking sheepish, TJ must’ve picked up on my shame. He then said, “I just got the best gift from Andrew! Want to see?” Out of his backpack, TJ held out a handmade comic book. Andrew, illustrated each pane, wrote the entire story, and deftly captured the true spirit of giving. Reading the thoughtful, clever story, I felt a flash of envy. Why was I not like Andrew? Other than time and a few sheets of paper, it didn’t cost Andrew anything. Yet what he gave was filled with so much akahai and aloha that TJ beamed with pride for having received it. He didn’t just give a gift, he gave of himself. 

5 PURSUITS of AKAHAI:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: What is Given from the Heart written by Patricia McKissack and illustrated by April Harrison. Then with you child, answer the following:

  • IDENTITY: Discuss with your kupuna how you and your ohana helps others in need. How did it make them feel to help others?
  • SKILLS: In the book, Reverend Dennis states, “What is given from the heart reaches the heart.” Cite examples from the book where this is demonstrated.
  • INTELLECT: This book’s author was awarded the Coretta Scott King Award. Research who Coretta Scott King was and why this award is important.
  • CRITICALITY: How does James Otis show akahai as he thinks about what he might give to Sarah? How might we equally show akahai in our daily interactions with others?
  • JOY: Use the Given from the Heart Poetry Sheet to write a poem for someone that comes from your heart.

HOʻOMAIKAʻI LAUREN COLLIER

Last week, Teachers of the Year from all of the Complex-Areas across the state gathered at Washington Place to be celebrated and thanked for all they do for their students and uplifting their schools. Many, like our very own Lauren Collier, also contribute greatly to raising the profession of teaching, coaching colleagues, and advocating for public schools. All of the teachers recognized last week were rightly lauded for their accomplishments. But call us biased, we were especially proud of Ms. Collier and what she does to bring esteem to Kāneʻohe Elementary School.

I COME FROM A PLACE

Responding to a call from last week’s blog to write write a 4 line poem that starts with “I come from a place…” students from Mrs. Muniz’s class wrote about Kāneʻohe Elementary:

I come from a place full of peacefulness and calmness
I come from a place that is safe and caring
I come from a learning place with kind people
I come from a place with aloha.

I come from a place of knowledge and hard-working teachers
I come from a place of friendly teachers
I come from a carefree, inviting, fun, and amazing community
that is very helpful when I’m learning

I come from a place of happiness 
I come  from a place of aloha values
I come from a place that is a bully-free zone
I come from a place of unity

I come from a place of rain, friendship, and strength
I come from a place with amazing mountains and agriculture  
I come from a place where the rain that feeds the plants is plentiful 
I come from a quiet, calm, and beautiful community of peace, strength, and beauty 

Mahalo nui loa students of room 29 for sharing your impressions of Kāneʻohe Elementary – a vision we continuously strive to manifest.

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 KĀNEʻOHE SHIRT WEDNESDAYS

Help us build unity and show our lōkahi by wearing a shirt that celebrates Kāneʻohe on Wednesdays. Wear any previous Fun Run or grade level shirt.

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

Oct 28 – Nov 8ʻOhana Conferences – school ends at 12:45 PM
Nov 22Waiver Day – no students

AHONUI AND ADDRESSING BULLYING

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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

Growing up in ʻAiea, during the late 70s, I can’t recall ever feeling the sting of racism. My friends were of different ethnicities and backgrounds but that never seemed to factor into how we played and interacted. We raced across the field barefoot with our slippers on our hands; fingers gripping the toe strap. We played touch football on the street; the asphalt burning callouses onto the soles of shoeless feet. We climbed high up the lychee tree to gather our own afternoon snacks; cloyingly sweet juices leaving our faces and hands delightfully sticky. We made fun of each other for being slow, clumsy, or smelly. But at least in my friend group, never would ethnic stereotypes come up. In fact, I was so naive that I did not know the ethnicities of my friends. I didn’t think about it. 

That changed one day when my friend and I got into a childish argument on the sidewalk at the edge of the playground. Wearing his Fonzy, faux leather jacket, my friend vociferously boasted that he was so much faster than me. I countered his arguments by criticizing his breath. Suddenly, an older kid swooped in and punched my friend in the face. As he ran away, he swore and called my friend a hurtful racial epithet. I heard the word before, but never seen someone struck and swore at for no reason other than being of that ethnic background. Honestly, I was in shock and my friend seemed embarrassed. My friend brushed it off with a small joke and we never talked about that incident again.

Looking back, I regret not yelling at the perpetrator and standing up for my friend. At the time, the act left me speechless. Witnessing this act of hate was jarring, especially to someone I cared for. As a child, I never heard my parents and my extended family express their prejudices in front of me. They rarely spoke ill of others and never because of their ethnic background. While fortunate for being so sheltered, it left me  credulous.

Many years and personal experiences later, I still feel fortunate. Despite being spat on in the face and swore at for being Asian while touring DC, it is nothing compared to the experiences of others across the continent. Still, even in Hawaiʻi we must endeavor towards a world with less hate. At an elementary school, acts of hate and unkindness starts off small but can soon balloon if not addressed. From repeated physical aggression to excluding others, the best course of preventing bullying according to research is to actively teach students social skills, such as the Foundations of Aloha, so they learn to independently resolve conflicts. 

During the break, I visited Hanahauʻoli School and heard from one of their Junior Kindergarten teachers. Responding to a question regarding students’ preschool experiences, she explained that due to the pandemic, many more students have been entering with little face-to-face experiences interacting with peers. As a result, students have been getting into many more arguments and fights. Yet, when parents voiced concern about the frequency of fights, instead of sheepishly retreating, this teacher exclaimed that this is a good thing, “They are learning to negotiate conflict with our guidance.” Teachers strive to teach students to become independent and confident. They cannot do this if they are always intervening and solving problems for the students, lest students learn to become helpless. So the teachers stand close, listen, and only intervene if needed. 

And so we too strive to patiently teach students to show aloha in every interaction. We also aspire to act with ahonui, walking that fine edge between knowing when to intervene and when to let students solve their own problems – for that too is part of aloha.As Aunty Pilahi noted, “The world will turn to Hawaiʻi as they search for world peace because Hawaiʻi has the key… and that key is aloha.” But, like with any discipline, mastering it takes time, practice and patience.

5 PURSUITS of AHONUI:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: Where Are You From? written by Yamile Saied Méndez and illustrated by Jaime Kim. Then with you child, answer the following:

  • IDENTITY: Discuss with a Kupuna – Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong because of where you are from? 
  • SKILLS: Abuelo uses figurative language to describ my e where the little girl is from. Thinking about your ancestors and what they might have experienced, use figurative language to describe “where you are from.”
  • INTELLECT: Research the different lands your ancestors called home. What was it like during their lifetime?
  • CRITICALITY: Discuss why it is important to honor and respect where others come from, even if it is different than you.
  • JOY: Aunty Puanani Burgess would often use a poem by her friend Hoʻoipo DeCambra in her teachings called, “I Come From a Place.” Read the poem and together with your kupuna write a 4 line poem that starts with “I come from a place…”

LUKE’S BUDDY BENCHES

When he was in first grade, Luke Makainai-Kon was inspired by a book he read. He learned that Buddy Benches assist students find new friends especially if they are shy. Encouraged by one of his teachers, Miss Scarlet, Luke petitioned me to build Buddy Benches to help our school be a better, more friendly place.

My son Gen then decided to lead the effort to build the Buddy Benches for his Eagle Scout Project. A year and a half later, Gen finally made Luke’s request a reality. This past weekend, with the help of his scoutmasters, Kevin Yasutake, Marc Takemoto, Troop 181, Miss Scarlett, the Makainai-Kon ʻohana, and our family, two new Buddy Benches were installed on the A-building playground. 

We hope these benches fulfill Luke’s wish of helping students find friends and make Kāneʻohe filled with more aloha.

UNITY DAY

This Wednesday we celebrate Unity Day by wearing orange, showing that we collectively stand for kindness, inclusion, and acceptance. Through this effort, we intend to show that our school community will do all that is right to prevent bullying. 

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 KĀNEʻOHE SHIRT WEDNESDAYS

Help us build unity and show our lōkahi by wearing a shirt that celebrates Kāneʻohe on Wednesdays. Wear any previous Fun Run or grade level shirt.

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

Oct 16Unity Day – wear orange to show you stand for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion to prevent students being bullied
Oct 16 5:30 – 7 PMKES Ohana MtgKES Library and on Zoom
Oct 28 – Nov 8ʻOhana Conferences – school ends at 12:45 PM
Nov 22Waiver Day – no students