PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION
 
My Philosophy of Education is based on the following beliefs, inspired and guided by verses from the Baibala Hemolele and various 'ölelo no'eau taken from Mary Kawena Puku'i's book 'Ölelo No'eau. These beliefs are the foundation upon which I build my educational practices as it relates to character, teaching, knowledge, and practice.
 CHARACTER
 

One of my strongest beliefs is that everything we do in life be done in love. It is by God's grace and mercy, by his love, that we exist. It is therefore my duty as a Hawaiian and as a Christian to show my students aloha, teaching them the importance of having a loving character.

 As a teacher I:

  • begin every day with a pule, asking for ke Akua's guidance and that his spirit of aloha be upon us.
  • teach students songs and verses in Hawaiian that speak of aloha.
  • work on developing a relationship of respect and aloha with each student.
 TEACHING
 

I believe that it is my responsibility to know thoroughly the information that I am about to teach as well as the methodology used to teach a group of diverse learners. In doing this I allow my students to excell in their studies. I must also account for my teaching through evaluation of student work.

 

 

 Therefore, I will continue to:

  • be active in my research of the subject matter, including all things relating to 'Ike Hawai'i and Nohona Hawai'i.
  • commit myself to ongoing professional development.
  • collaborate with colleagues; sharing, supporting, and encouraging each other.
  • perform whatever task I expect my students to perform.
  • be accountable for my teaching by evaluating myself through the work that my students produce.

 
 KNOWLEDGE
 

Knowledge is abundant. As Hawaiians, we are in an era of enlightenment, empowered by a renewed spirit that yearns for 'Ike Hawai'i - the knowledge that encompasses all things Hawaiian. It is the knowledge of our past - that of our kupuna - that help shape our understanding and guide our path. I believe that we need to be steadfast in the teaching of 'Ike Hawai'i, recognizing the fact that in doing so we instill pride in our students which empower them, helping them to achieve excellence. This knowledge comes from all sources and should always be honored.

 

 I will continue to:

  • teach 'Ike Hawai'i, drawing upon authentic materials such as mo'olelo and mele found in the Hawaiian newspapers as well as information gathered through interaction with our hulu kupuna.
  • respect the teachings of others, acknowledging that these differences will help students to respect others.
  • embrace the mana'o of parents, working together to insure the successful journey of the student.
 PRACTICE
 

Knowing is in the doing. I believe that only through personal experience can one truly learn. Students need to put to practice whatever it is they are studying.

 

 Therefore, I will conitnue to:

  • provide opportunities whereby students can experience their environment.
  • provide opportunities of Nohona Hawai'i, which puts to practice 'Ike Hawai'i.