I moved to Hawaii (Oahu) more than 20 years ago. There was a phrase I would often hear on our local radio and television stations: “Lucky we live Hawaii.” I always felt good when I heard that phrase, because I knew how fortunate it was to be provided the opportunity to move to Hawaii, via the U.S. Air Force.
Our learners can truly say “Lucky we live Hawaii” based on where they live, and where they go to school. In speaking to their facilitator, Ms. Katie, she told me that “Auntie TaiTai graciously offered to share her knowledge of Olelo Hawaii (to speak Hawaii)”. We are fortunate to have Auntie TaiTai, who is actually a grandparent to one of our learners in kindergarten (TaiDan). She describes herself as Kanaka Maoli. Also, she graduated from Kamehameha School, class of ’75, and had a professional and academic career in music and dance in Hawaii.”
It is clear to me, based on my classroom observation, as well as my conversation with Ms. Katie, that Alaka`I O Kauai Charter School learners are having some great project-based, hands-on experiences at our school, which is the foundation of everything we do here.
I encourage all parents/guardians to discuss with your children what they learned at school. You would be surprised to hear their depth of knowledge and understanding about a content area or subject matter. I end this Monday Message by saying… Lucky your children attend Alaka`i O Kaua`i Charter School.
Thank you,
Frederick A. Birkett, Ed.M
Alaka’i O Kaua’i Charter School Director