Category Archives: AKAHAI

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

Andrews, Hawaiian Dictionary, 1865

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: AKAHAI

More than 400 people gathered to pay their respect, about a hundred more than there were seats available. As I approached the venue, bursts of laughter and smiles on the teenagers hanging around the perimeter of the pavilion gave me pause. Was I in the right place? Was this a graduation party? Then I saw the warm, sympathetic faces of my friends at the reception table.

Over the past two months, peculiarly I’ve been to five funerals, three of which memorialized someone who passed away way too young. This service stood out as it was for a boy just a year older than my son. Genuine, loving, good natured, this young man’s life was just opening up with promising opportunities. But life can be at times random and much too short.

Unlike the afternoon commute there, traffic flowed smoothly as I drove home from Mililani. I allowed my mind to wander, reflecting upon the service filled with funny, touching, thankful anecdotes from his friends, teachers, and sisters. Still, when in the reception line, my lack of words for his parents seemed to emptily echo. Instead tears filled the space between us as we embraced. If it were me, I am not sure what words would alleviate the heaviness crushing my heart.

Pulling off of the freeway, I decided to take a shortcut up a narrow lane that allowed only one car to drive in either direction at a time. Normally, at this time of night, the lane is clear with everyone tucked in at home. However, I saw several brake lights up ahead causing me to slow to a stop. I could not see what was holding up the traffic, but decided to ahonui. Minutes passed with no progress. Was it a DoorDash delivering a meal? Cars coming from both directions began to line up, multiple sets of headlights illuminating this short stretch of road. More time passed and one Tesla coming down the mountain tried to jump ahead but could not navigate around the car blocking us.

Then the driver ahead of me got out of his car. I assumed the worst and readied 911 on my phone. Cautiously scanning the situation to determine how I might best help, I saw the driver approach the car ahead. I could not hear what he was saying but his gestures did not immediately seem aggressive. Then he moved to the rear of the car and began motioning for the car to reverse along the sidewalk. He was helping the car squeeze into a tight parking spot. He then returned to his car and we were all on our way.

Pono Shim used to share a story about how once he was stuck at a busy downtown intersection during rush hour waiting for an elderly man to inch his way across. People began honking, speeding ahead only inches from the man once he cleared their lane. Pono then got out of his car and began stopping traffic to allow the man to pass without feeling stressed or that he was inconveniencing others.

Yes, life is short, sometimes much shorter than we’d hope. Yet, in the hearts of people with whom we share aloha, our acts of akahai can last far beyond our own limited heartbeats on this Earth. 

5 PURSUITS of AKAHAI

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: Last Stop on Market Street read and written by Matt de la Pena, and illustrated by Christian Robinson. Then with you child, answer the following:

• IDENTITY: Talk with your kūpuna about the special people and places in your neighborhood.
• SKILLS: On a Double Bubble Map, compare how Nana and CJ see the world. Use evidence from the text.
• INTELLECT: What is a soup kitchen? Why do you think Nana takes CJ there?
• CRITICALITY: Why is the line, “They sat right up front” so important to CJ’s Nana? 
• JOY: Take a walk or a bus ride with your kūpuna or mākua through Kāneʻohe (or maybe take the rail) and talk about the beautiful things you see, hear, and even smell.

TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

This week we show appreciation to our hardworking, dedicated teachers and staff who put their all into inspiring students to learn and discover their passions (with aloha at their core). If you are thinking of giving your child’s teacher a gift or showing them your appreciation for all they do? Check out this article on the Creative Ideas to Show Teacher Appreciation.

WHAT PARENTS OF BOYS SHOULD KNOW

Across the nation and even reflected in our own data, boys tend to earn worse grades and get into more trouble when compared to girls. A recent article from The Atlantic explores the societal and parental treatment of boys, showing that they often receive less emotional nurturing than girls who tend to receive higher levels of affection and patience at home. Yet, researchers argue sons might actually need nurturing more than daughters. Too often, boys are told they need to be tough and violently move their problems. However, what they really need from their caregivers (parents and teachers included) is time, conversation, patience, and affection. Read more 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 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 when we meet in-person. If you would like to share your reflections on the week’s Aloha value, please contact me.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Akahai: Leaving better than you found it –with white gloves…the practice is grace. White gloves give the image of leaving someone clean and not staining them or leaving a blemish or scar. To leave someone unblemished is to share akahai. It does not carry an expectation of an award or reward or reciprocity, it is to share our best fish and keep our less than best fish.

Pilahi Paki as shared by Pono Shim to The Mānoa Heritage Center.

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: AKAHAI

A brook runs along the back of my cousins’ house, not too far upstream of the verdant Moanalua Gardens. When my sister, cousins and I were in our elementary years, that brook was our Exploratorium. We spent nearly everyday of the summer playing in the cool, flowing waters, allowing our curiosity to bloom. We figured out how to fit together pōhaku to dam the water and build pools to float around in. We redesigned nets to catch guppies, dojo, and tadpoles that we could raise in gallon-sized glass mayonnaise jars. We experimented with different homemade sleds used to slide down the mossy ramp that connected the stream to a canal. Just as it fed the gardens downstream, the brook nurtured our love for science, nature, and problem-solving. 

While it may seem incomprehensible now, we spent much of that time unsupervised. My mom and aunt talked story in the house and only allowed us back in for meals (or to watch Kikaida). Not quite like that Japanese reality show Old Enough, we were left alone to play and create our own fun. Plus, we always knew help was one scream away. These experiences, this time alone, were critical to our successes as adults. It drew us closer, taught us to be independent, and to be fundamentally curious people.

“This matters. You can sometimes identify a bad leader by how few questions they ask; they think they already know everything they need to. In contrast, history’s great achievers tend to have an insatiable desire to learn. In his study of such accomplished creative figures, the psychologist Frank Barron found that abiding curiosity was essential to their success; their curiosity helped them stay flexible, innovative, and persistent.”

– David Brooks, “How Ivy League Admissions Broke America,” The Atlantic, December 2024

David Brooks further asserts that our current school “system encourages people to focus narrowly on cognitive tasks, but curiosity demands play and unstructured free time.” At peril is the ability of our children to be creative and imaginatively solve problems. One only need look at the rapid advances made with technology, social media, and AI to admit that many problems we encounter today could not have been conceived a few years ago. Yet, when we over-program our kids, drill them endlessly with worksheets hoping their scores will increase on a standardized test, we risk diminishing a part of their brain that will be critical to their successes later. As cited by Brooks, “In research for her book The Hungry Mind, the psychologist Susan Engel found that in kindergarten, students expressed curiosity only 2.4 times every two hours of class time. By fifth grade, that was down to 0.48 times.”

At times, focused, structured practice is necessary. For example, flashcards are one of the most effective way to build skills and strengthen active memory. However, even with flashcards, there is an optimum amount of time a child should spend studying them such as 5 – 10 minutes every couple of days. Dedicating too much time can build aversion to the task, decrease motivation, and reduce efficacy. Ultimately, overuse discourages curiosity.

Consequently, a balance must be struck. Along with short intervals of structured practice, children need ample time for free play, ideally in nature, to allow them room to imagine, problem-solve, and grow. Yet, this takes courage because it means we as parents and care-takers must let go of control. We must dampen our fears that scream “they are wasting time.” We must instead accept that even before a kupu emerges from the soil, a lot of development has been occurring below the surface, invisible to our eyes. And when we can control ourselves from dictating our children’s every move, we are engaging in an act of akahai that allows them to bloom.

5 PURSUITS of AKAHAI

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: Knowledge is Life Mary Kawena Pukui written by David Del Rocco, illustrated by Storm Kano, and read by our very own Kumu Kalei Tim Sing. Then with you child, answer the following:

• IDENTITY: Mary Kawena Pukui collected ʻike Hawaiʻi and ʻōlelo noʻeau throughout her life. Ask your kupuna for a favorite saying or words of wisdom that has been passed down in your family.
• SKILLS: Mary Kawena Pukui believed “knowledge is life.” Cite evidence from the text that shows that Mary Kawena Pukui lived by this belief.
• INTELLECT: Mary Kawena Pukui was “born during a time of turmoil in the islands.” What does “turmoil” mean?
• CRITICALITY: When Mary Kawena Pukui was a baby, the new government of Hawaiʻi outlawed the Hawaiian language. What impact did this have on the Hawaiian people? Why might Mary Kawena Pukui’s life work be considered brave and important?
• JOY: With a kupuna, look up different ʻōlelo noʻeau recorded by Mary Kawena Pukui. Find one that you like or is meaningful to you. Draw a picture of that ʻōlelo noʻeau.

STEM NIGHT AT KES

Mahalo nui loa to the families that attended this year’s STEM Night held on Friday, March 28. Professional engineers from The Structural Engineers Association of Hawaii (SEAOH) presented our students and families with three different building challenges involving LEGO, cars and towers. There were so many innovative designs. Mahalo nui loa to the SEAOH engineers, STEM Resource Teacher Karen Kimura, and Parent Community Network Coordinator Dee Fujinaka for organizing this engaging event as well as members of our staff who assisted including VP Kalei Tim Sing, Kumu Māpuana, Ms. Ing, and Mrs. Nakamura.

FAREWELL MR. JARON

Please join me in wishing Mr. Jaron, our very own School Social Worker the best as he continues his professional pursuits at the University of Hawaiʻi School of Social Work. There he will have a broader reach, influencing future social workers. Under his leadership, our rate of chronic absenteeism dropped by 13% and we established a new behavior management system. Mr. Jaron also established strong relationships with students, staff and families. We will sorely miss him. His last day is this week Friday.

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 when we meet in-person. If you would like to share your reflections on the week’s Aloha value, please contact me.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Akahai: Leaving better than you found it –with white gloves…the practice is grace. White gloves give the image of leaving someone clean and not staining them or leaving a blemish or scar. To leave someone unblemished is to share akahai. It does not carry an expectation of an award or reward or reciprocity, it is to share our best fish and keep our less than best fish.

Pilahi Paki as shared by Pono Shim to The Mānoa Heritage Center.

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: AKAHAI

Often, Aunty Puanani Burgess gathered her most insightful and inspirational moʻolelo from her daily interactions. Her son’s strolls with his grandmother, memories of taking castor oil to ward off disease, and even a Sylvester Stallone movie were sources of unlikely wisdom. Aunty Pua adeptly perceived the gems around her and skillfully translated them so all could gain wisdom from her observations.

Aunty Pua’s most renown moʻolelo involved her interaction with a student from Waianae High School. After prompting the student to think about his unique gift, she initially provoked anger and embarrassment. However, unbeknownst to her, she also aroused reflection. Away from school, the student realized his gift as a talented lawaiʻa. When he recounted this to Aunty Pua days after his outburst, she realized how unseen the boy was in school; how his talents, intelligence, and ʻike went unvalued. Her plea to schools then became to realize that everyone has gifts and we must teach to those gifts of our haumana.

Father Gregory Boyle, the founder of the largest gang-intervention and rehabilitation program, possesses a similar perspective. He touts that everyone, even those that commit the most heinous crimes, are fundamentally and unshakably good. He says, “You’re talking about people who are unshakably good and belong to us, but they’re not as healthy as people would hope one to be, and so how do we walk each other home to health?” (source) Beyond the tattoos, clothing, and intimidating looks, Father Boyle’s vision is filtered through an understanding that the gang members who come to him have suffered despair and trauma. They harm others, not because they are evil, but because they are hurt. Like Aunty Pua, he sees the gifts they possess and through teaching and healing, is able to help people bring these gifts forward. A masterful storyteller, Father Boyle shares an example where one gang member’s unshakable good shines brightly for all to see.

Aunty Pua noted that recognizing our own gift can be extremely difficult. She observed that seeing your gift is to “honor something inherent in you that often times is not seen by others.” So, if we sincerely believe that everyone possesses a gift, is unshakably good, then our act of akahai is to look for those gifts in others and in ourselves.

5 PURSUITS of AKAHAI

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath written by Julia Finley Mosca and illustrated by Daniel Rieley. Then with you child, answer the following:

• IDENTITY: As shared in the video, what are your gifts, talents, or somethings you are good at? Discuss with a kūpuna.
• SKILLS: Citing evidence from the text, what were the different unfair conditions Dr. Bath encountered for herself and for her patients?
• INTELLECT: Dr. Path was an ophthalmologist, a special type of eye doctor. Research what it takes to become an ophthalmologist and how it is different from an optometrist.
• CRITICALITY: Similar to the question shared in the video, how can you be like Dr. Bath and use your gifts or talents to show akahai and make the world better?
• JOY: With the help of a makua, make your own memory game. Memory games help improve your eyesight, focus, and attention to detail.

HOʻOMAIKAʻI – SCIENCE & ENGINEERING FAIR AWARDEES

Last week, we congratulated our junior engineers who represented Kāneʻohe Elementary at the Windward District Science and Engineering Fair. This week, we make special mention of: Kobe Bruhn, Abby Fong, and Kaili Laba. Their projects were amongst the top at the fair and will go on to represent Kāneʻohe Elementary AND the entire Windward District at the Hawaiʻi State Science and Engineering Fair. Further, Abby garnered a special award for the Thermo Fisher Junior Innovators Challenge and placed 3rd overall. We are very proud that these students’ hard work and application of knowledge were recognized by the judges and will continue to compete against public and private schools across the state.

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 when we meet in-person. If you would like to share your reflections on the week’s Aloha value, please contact me.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mai kū me ka hō’olo, akā e kū me ke akahai. 

Don’t stand in an air of superiority, but stand in modesty.

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: AKAHAI

The standard playground apology sounds something like, “I’m sorry. I won’t let it happen again.” But does it truly mean the offender is sorry? And does it guarantee that he/she won’t do whatever it was again? In most cases, the answer to both of those questions is “no.” And this is evinced by the number of times we see the same kids doing the same things over and over again. So how might we more effectively teach students to reflect on what they’ve done, repair any harm they’ve caused, and sincerely try to avoid making the same mistakes?

Having been one of those kids (I used my wit and words to tease and belittle others) I draw from my experiences. I only was able to break the cycle when I reshaped my perspectives of what an apology is and what it looks like. When I was younger, I saw apologizing as a sign of weakness and it meant admitting that I was a bad person. So any apology I made was halfhearted. It was often peppered with an excuse for my behavior. “I’m sorry for making you cry but I was just joking.” Or laid the blame on the other person, “…he started it.” 

Because of my warped views on apologies, I felt angry that I was made to apologize and so I distanced myself from accepting blame by putting it on the other person “I’m sorry you feel angry” and then expected everyone to just move on “what? I said I’m sorry! Just move on!” But we couldn’t move on because I didn’t sincerely think about my actions and the harm I caused. I didn’t accept my kuleana and how I would repair my wrong.

Eventually I realized the pain I caused along with the injury to my own self-perception I suffered from hanging with people who engaged in the same bad behavior. I realized that I needed to stop disguising my words as humor in order to disparage others. Putting others down did not elevate me. Instead, I felt cruel and damaged.

A few of my YMCA mentors, Clayton Segawa and Baron Gushiken, helped me see how I could better use my wit and words to lead, inspire and lift others. Their guidance made me realize that I also needed to use my words to resolve my offenses as apologizing was a part of strengthening my leadership. They helped me see that everyone at some point hurts others. It’s unavoidable. And if we don’t treat that wounds we cause, it may fester, become infected, and ultimately damage ourselves and our relationships. However, if we work on healing the harm, then we and our relationships become stronger and more resilient. 

The Japanese practice of kintsugi, where broken pottery is bonded with lacquer and decorated with gold powder, elevates the beauty of once pristine pieces of art. It acknowledges the ephemeral, fragile nature of life and shows how we can extend our usefulness and value. Like kintsugi, a true apology not only makes one whole again, it strengthens us…leaves us better.

5 PURSUITS of AKAHAI

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: Golden Threads written by Suzanne Rizzo & Illustrated by Miki Sato. Then with you child, answer the following:

• IDENTITY: Do you have any scars from an injury? What is the story behind that scar?The Japanese believe we develop scars over our lifetime and should not hide them. Instead scars can give way to something new and beautiful. Ask your kupuna to share stories about any scars they may have.
• SKILLS: Watch the video again to find all the ways the author uses metaphor and simile to describe different things fox sees and experiences.
• INTELLECT: In the story, Kiko uses golden thread to mend fox and not just repair him, but make him even more uniquely beautiful. This is similar to how ceramists in Japan use the art of kintsugi to repair broken cups and dishes. Research kintsugi and the philosophy of celebrating flaws.
• CRITICALITY: How might we show akahai and celebrate our flaws and help others become more uniquely beautiful?
• JOY: With the help of a makua (adult), repair something to extend it’s life and usefulness. See the beauty in it’s imperfections.

BONUS: read about how Hawaiian craftspeople performed a similar repair method using wood that valued reusing and adding beauty to everyday objects.

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION AND GES

With the start of the new year, we are accepting kindergarten registration and requests for Geographic Exceptions (GEs) for SY 2025-26. If you, or someone you know, has a child that turns 5 by July 31, 2025, please register ASAP. If you live outside of the Kāneʻohe Elementary boundaries, the deadline to submit GEs is March 1, 2025. Please be mindful of this deadline, as any GE received after March 1st will be placed on a wait list.

We are also accepting Geographic Exceptions (GE), for students entering grades 1 through 6. If you have any questions about registering your child, please call our registration clerk, Brigette Leavy, at 305-0001 or email her at Brigette.Leavy@k12.hi.us.

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

I laila hoʻi no koʻu puʻuwai.
Ua maluhia hoʻi au i keʻāpona mai.
A i koʻu mau ala hele loa,
ʻOia mau nō ke akahai pū me iaʻu.

It is there that my heart belongs.
I am safe in the warmth of that embrace.
No matter where I may roam,
I carry that gentleness with me.

 P. Anderson-Fung and K. Maly

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: AKAHAI

There’s a switchback on the trail leading to the top of Waihī Nui (Mānoa Falls) that fills me with peace. It’s not a typical stopping point on the trail and unlike the bench a several football fields before it, there’s not an expansive, awe-inspiring vista overlooking Mānoa valley. Instead, the spot is tucked beneath the shade of hao trees. Cool breezes rustle the leaves of the trees below and uplift the bird songs emanating from canopy. And because it was the past the more scenic points, few people passed by, allowing me to be undisturbed.

I used to visit that spot every Saturday morning during a more tumultuous period of my life. There, I could empty my head as I tried to isolate the sounds of the different birds I heard singing. There I could drown out the voices of doubt and frustration that weighed upon my heart. Above the cell towers, the notifications of my phone were muted and I felt entirely free.

After attaining a calm state, I allowed my mind to slowly return to work and my home. Starting with those for whom I felt grateful – the people who brought me joy, showed me care and compassion. Bathing in gratitude, I felt fortified to think about my week ahead and the challenges I’d be facing. Refreshed and renewed, I walked back to my car and the daily challenges. 

It has been a few years since I last visited this spot and I’ve been wanting to return. Not that I feel anything close to the turmoil I once endured, I feel that practicing this sort of akahai is like exercise or eating healthy – it’s a discipline I must continually engage in to maintain strength. As I get older, I am finding that staying fit (physically, mentally, and spiritually) is a must. Undoubtedly, challenges will continue to arise and test our resolve. Consequently, before I find myself once again mired in despair, I will visit that spot and immerse myself in gratitude for the people around me who continually show aloha.

5 PURSUITS of AKAHAI:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: We are Grateful: Otsaliheliga written by Traci Sorell and illustrated by Frané Lessac. Then with you child, answer the following:

• IDENTITY: Discuss with your kupuna about how your ʻohana and people of your culture show gratitude.
• SKILLS: How does the author talk about ways the Cherokee people preserve their way of life?
• INTELLECT: Where are the Cherokee people originally from and where are they now? What caused them to be relocated and why they believe it is important to remember this difficult time period and what their ancestors endured.
• CRITICALITY: Why do the Cherokee people remind themselves to celebrate blessings and reflect on struggles and hard times throughout each season?
• JOY: Watch this Drum Along version of the book and find something you can safely use as a drum to drum along to the story.

MAHALO NUI LOA – COMPREHENSIVE NEEDS ASSESSMENT

On Friday, November 22, we conducted a Comprehensive Needs Assessment that delved into our school data. From this, we identified the strengths, challenges and  implications for our school’s Academic and Financial Plan. Mahalo nui loa for the staff, students, parents (Chelsea Pang, Shelly May Tokunaga), and community member (Derek Esibill from Waikalua Loko Iʻa) who spent the entire day, expending a wealth of mental energy to analyze our data and help our school move forward. 

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

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

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

Andrews, Hawaiian Dictionary, 1865

ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: AKAHAI

Tucked away in my office desk drawer closest to my left, I keep a stack of thank you notes I’ve received through my years at Kāneʻohe. When I need a boost, especially on days when I doubt myself, Iʻll pull out a note and remember the person who wrote it. The last one I read wrote,

With this student in particular I often wondered if my actions made a difference. He was sent to my office so often that when he wasn’t there I checked if he was absent. Yet, if I compare the horrible acts he committed when he was a 5th grader to his infractions at the end of 6th grade, he made a huge amount of growth. Although still impulsive, he developed empathy for others and a conscience…albeit mostly heard in the afterthought. While the student left Kāneʻohe short of the summits we aimed to reach, I felt hopeful he would continue on an upward path. In the end, he never came out and said “thank you” and the note was likely written by his mother, but when he gave me that note along with a lei, he gave me a hug and told me that he’d miss me. In that moment, I felt his gratitude in my heart.

Aloha Aku, Aloha Mai - in giving aloha we simultaneously receive aloha. 

Despite failing to meet our goals, his gratitude still buoys me to this day. It reminds me that we are all works in progress and should not wait until the finish line to say “thank you.” Instead, we should share our gratitude along the way to those helping us. In doing so, our collective aloha is refueled and we are left better for it.

As a post-script, science agrees. There are dozens of research studies showing the benefits of showing gratitude:

1. Gratitude helps improve sleep.
2. Gratitude helps lower high blood pressure
3. Gratitude helps prevent overeating. 
4. Gratitude motivates you to exercise more. 
5. Gratitude helps strengthen the immune system.
6. Gratitude improves pain tolerance.
7. Gratitude helps keep glucose levels under control.
8. Gratitude extends the lifespan. 
9. Gratitude helps patients with heart illness.
10. Gratitude boosts self-confidence.
11. Gratitude improves patience.
12. Gratitude improves resiliency.
13. Gratitude reduces envy and jealousy.
14. Gratitude makes you more optimistic
15. Gratitude makes us less materialistic.
16. Gratitude makes you more forgiving.
17. Gratitude helps the battle against depression. 
18. Gratitude helps in recovery from addiction.
19. Gratitude enhances vitality.
20. Gratitude enhances spiritualism.
21. Practicing and showing gratitude improves your mood. 
22. Gratitude helps manage grief. 
23. Gratitude makes us see our memories in a positive light.
24. Gratitude contributes to happiness.
25. Gratitude helps strengthen romantic relationships. 
26. Gratitude helps improve relationships with friends.
27. Gratitude strengthens family support. 
28. Gratitude fosters a healthy social circle.
29. Gratitude improves retention (in the workplace).
30. Gratitude enhances productivity.
31. Gratitude helps build better relationships among work colleagues.
32. Gratitude enhances management capabilities. 
33. Gratitude improves decision-making skills. 
34. Gratitude cultivates a sense of fulfillment. 
35. Gratitude helps improve the working environment. 

5 PURSUITS of AKAHAI:

Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad

Please watch this: A Beach Day with Pa written by Senator Akaka’s grandson, David Mattson and his wife Elizabeth Mattson; illustrated by Brady Evans. Then with you child, answer the following:

• IDENTITY: What is something that you like to do at the beach with your ʻohana?
• SKILLS: Watch the video again, but this time turn the sound softer and read along with the narrator.
• INTELLECT: A single cigarette butt will contaminate 8 liters of water after just one hour of soaking in the waves. Research the impact plastic bags and other pieces of litter have on the environment.
• CRITICALITY: In the story Pa and the kids showed akahai by picking up the opala left by others. Other than the marine life, who benefits from this act of aloha?
• JOY: Think about how you can do an act of aloha that benefits others at your next fun outing with your ʻohana. Share this idea with your ʻohana and commit to doing it.

ALOHA AKAKA WEEK CHALLENGE

This week, on what would’ve been his 100th birthday, we honor Senator Daniel Kahikina Akaka, the first U.S. Senator of Native Hawaiian ancestry. Senator Akaka was justifiably known as the Aloha Ambassador, consistently demonstrating akahai to everyone he met and connected with him. In this spirit, please join us in the Aloha Akaka Week Challenge by following the Senator’s examples on each day of the week:

FUN FAIR UPDATE

Our KES Fun Fair committee continues to prepare this tremendous event. Currently, the biggest effort is to fill all volunteer spots. 

With only three weeks to go, we want to ensure all tasks are covered. Please help out by volunteering for a shift. With our combined efforts, our Fun Fair is sure to be a success. If you are able to lend some time, please sign-up 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 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