Hawaiʻi Social Justice Educators Community: A Quarterly Gathering

Date: Thursday, April 25, 2024

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Location: Online via Zoom

Cost: Free

The Hanahau’oli School Professional Development Center and the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa College of Education invite you to a series of hosted events focused on social justice education in Hawai'i. If you are:

• in a role supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, or belonging at school;

• on a committee exploring such issues;

• teaching social justice content in your classes;

• engaged in advocacy or activism around social justice education; or

• interested in such topics…

We invite you to join us for quarterly conversation and networking in a loosely facilitated format, where we will share and explore together the successes and challenges of social justice education in schools in Hawai'i. 

Tools and Strategies for Assessing Literacy Growth Over Time

Date: Friday, April 19, 2024

Time: 9:00 am to 3:30 pm

Location: Hanahau'oli School Professional Development Center, located at 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96822

Cost: $200 per person
Scholarships available! Inquire here.

Literacy development is a process, so how can elementary educators assess literacy development over time? In this workshop, K-6 educators will explore classroom-based literacy assessments designed to inform data-driven instructional decisions. They will be introduced to an array of literacy assessments, which cover discrete elements of reading, literacy indicators for tracking student progress over time, and practical methods for using assessment outcomes to enhance literacy instruction. While formal and standardized assessments are widely used in schools due to their efficiency, they have limitations in providing the nuanced insights needed for day-to-day instructional decisions. This workshop will equip educators with insights into classroom-based assessment practices, which can effectively capture literacy growth over time. Participants will learn how to pair standardized/formal assessments with classroom-based assessments to build a more comprehensive understanding of students’ development.  

During our time together, we will:

• Explore research-based literacy indicators, enabling schools and teachers to make informed decisions when tailoring indicators to align with their unique programs. 

• Engage in hands-on assessment practice, having time for reflection, and the close examination of essential literacy indicators as we consider data informed instructional decisions.

• Plan, either collaboratively within school teams or individually to consider our own students' needs.

Lunch will be provided.

About the Facilitator:

Dr. Stephanie Buelow is an Associate Professor of Literacy Education at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa in the School for Teacher Education. Her current work is focused on teacher preparation and literacy leadership.She teaches undergraduate literacy methods courses in a field-based teacher preparation program, directs the Elementary Literacy Clinic, and teaches graduate courses in Literacy Leadership. Stephanie is the Co-Director of the Hawaii Writing Project and teaches the Hawaii Writing Project’s Invitational Summer Institute. She also currently serves as the President of the Hawaii Council of Teachers of English. Stephanie is the 2018 recipient of the University of Hawaii’s Board of Regents Medal for Excellence in Teaching. Her research interests lie in disciplinary literacies, new literacies, and teacher learning and development. Stephanie’s publications have appeared in The Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literacy, Literacy Practice and Research; The Reading Teacher; Reading Horizons; Middle School Journal; and The Journal of Literacy and Language Education. Stephanie draws upon twelve years of elementary teaching experience in culturally, linguistically, and socioeconomically diverse schools to ground her current work as a teacher educator. In addition to classroom teaching experience, Stephanie was a Literacy Coach, Title I Coordinator, Technology Specialist, and District Level Literacy Resource Teacher--all of which offered her opportunities to work with administrators and teachers from diverse K-12 settings.

Essential Water Competencies for our Keiki

Date: Thursday, March 7, 2024

Time: 8:30am–12:00pm

Location: Beginning at Hanahau'oli School, located at 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu HI 96822 and concluding at Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park (2.2 miles, 10 min drive)

Cost: $100 per person

Scholarships are available! Please inquire here.

In Hawai‘i, we live  on an island, which offers incredible opportunities for us to explore and enjoy aquatic environments. However, it also presents unique challenges and responsibilities when it comes to water safety. This is especially true for anyone that lives or works with children. Our keiki are often exposed to the ocean from a young age, making it essential for them to develop water competency skills early on. At this workshop, we will address the needs of parents/guardians and educators who want to ensure the safety of our keiki in and around water. The water safety skills will be learned both in a classroom environment and in the water.

In the workshop participants will be taught specific water safety skills that they can use to educate children.  At the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped to create a safer aquatic experience for our keiki and foster a community that understands and practices water safety. 

This workshop is essential for anyone who works with children, especially those in and around water. This includes Physical Education teachers, lifeguards, swim instructors, and parents/guardians.

Please note: this workshop is not a water safety certification course, but an informational educational experience that will teach participants basic water safety competencies and skills.

Workshop Agenda:

In the classroom at Hanahau‘oli School:

8:30-8:50 Introduction and ice- breaker “What does it mean to know how to swim?”

8:50-9:15 Hawaii Aquatic Foundation: what they started and why it’s important to continue their work

9:15-9:50 Water Competencies – Making the shift from swimming skills to water competencies 

9:50-10:00 Review beach tasks. Break up into groups for the beach. Handouts, and Questions

In and out of the water at Ala Moana Beach Park:

10:00-10:30 Travel to Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park, Lifeguard Tower 1E (12 minute drive, 2.2 miles) and be ready with swimsuit, rash guard, sun protection, and goggles (optional)

10:30-12:00 16 Water Competencies and how to teach them across all levels

About the Facilitator:

Chelsea Huang was born and raised in San Francisco, CA and moved to Hawai’i in 2006 to swim at UH-Manoa. She quickly found a wonderful group within the swim community and it reignited her love for open water swimming. She has 2 decades of experience teaching, coaching, and training swimmers of all ages and abilities. Water safety was instilled in her at a very young age and combined with her experience and love for swimming she hopes to share that with as many of Hawai’i's keiki as she can.

The Art of Positive Teaming

Date: Saturday, March 2, 2024

Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm

Location: Hanahau'oli School, located at 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96822

Cost: $100 per person
Scholarships available! Inquire here.

Co-teaching or team teaching provides educators with the opportunity to build on each other's strengths and skills to plan, organize, instruct and assess students for improved teaching and learning. In this workshop, join two Hanahau‘oli School veteran teachers who each have over twenty years experience with team teaching. They will share their journeys as team members and how they learned the art of “teaming by doing.” Following a lively presentation, this active professional development experience will include the examination of varied case studies to highlight the tenants of powerful, productive and positive team teaching. Participants will have opportunities to plan for team teaching and reflect on the effectiveness of their own teams. Additionally, participants will walk away with a toolbox of ideas and resources that will support school leaders and team members’ roles within their particular school settings.

This workshop is designed for all educators serving on a teaching team as well as those hoping to implement the team teaching model. We invite early educators through high school teachers, department chairs, school leaders, and educators who work with adults. If possible, we encourage participants currently working in teams to attend as a team.

About the Facilitators:

Kathy Galdeira Many places of learning have contributed to Kathy's passion for teaching and commitment to children. Beginning at Lanikai Elementary, continuing into the Punahou School community then onto Lewis & Clark College, each learning community offered her insights into the joyful process of learning. Earning a B.A. in Elementary Education and Psychology, her classroom career began in Oregon and found its way back to Hawaii. Her relationship with Hanahau'oli School began in 1987, spanning 34 years of classroom teaching, 22 of which were in multi-age 7-9 year old classrooms. Her children are alumni of this special place. Together they share a passion for this beautiful Island Home. Her new found joy arrived with the recent birth of her first grandchild.

Maile Ostrem Maile started her teaching career in Hawai‘i after following her lifelong dream of becoming an early childhood educator. She’s a proud graduate of Sacred Hearts Academy, Arizona State University, and the University of Hawai‘i's Masters program in Early Childhood Education. Her first decade of teaching offered experience in teaching students ages 3-12. They included teaching for the KCAA preschools where was charged with spearheading a Gifted Program. Other years were spent at St Patrick’s School and three different elementary schools in the Windward District of ‘Oahu. These experiences led her to her dream job, joining the faculty of Hanahau‘oli School in 1985 as their First Grade Teacher. She thrived there for 13 years and helped develop a strong curriculum and many cherished traditions that continue to this day. Once the school decided to change to a multiage structure which included team teaching, Maile was placed on the initial team of three teachers in their Kindergarten-First Grade Classroom called Kukunaokalā. The school continued to expand the programs and Maile taught in both the K-1 and 2-3 classrooms for the remaining 21 years of her career before retiring in 2019. Throughout her career Maile was also a mentor for student teachers with the University of Hawai‘i and was an active contributing workshop leader with the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools. Most recently she helped lead workshops throughout the State for Early Childhood Educators. She continues to substitute at Hanahau‘oli, conducts workshops, and enjoys the freedom to spend retired life traveling, being with family, and keeping active with paddling, golf, pickleball and hula.

Conflict De-escalation & Resolution

Date: Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Time: 1:30 to 3:00 pm

Location: Hanahau'oli School Pavilion, located at 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96822

Cost: Free

Join the Hanahau‘oli Professional Development Center and Sgt. Bryne Nagata of the UH Mānoa Department of Public Safety to learn and practice methods for conflict de-escalation and resolution in educational environments. 

In this 90 minute workshop, we will learn about precipitating factors to conflict, signs of agitation, and discuss verbal and nonverbal de-escalation techniques. In addition, we will discuss how to end the de-escalation process, and what to do when de-escalation isn’t possible. Recommended for all educators, administrators, and school employees, this workshop is provided at no cost and aims to support educators as they work to maintain the safety of our school communities.

About the Facilitator:

Sergeant Bryne Nagata has been at the UH Manoa Department of Public Safety for 10 years. In that time, he has held the ranks of Officer, Corporal, and now Sergeant. He has various responsibilities, including being assigned to the Crime Prevention Unit (CPU), where he teaches not only University departments and offices but outside the University as well. He has worked with both public and private sectors, including the City and County of Honolulu's DMV staff, Summer Fun leader staff, and private entities such as Waikiki Health Center and Kline-Welsh Behavioral Health Foundation staff. He also oversees both the administrative and patrol responsibilities at the Kakaako Campus which is home to the University's John A. Burn School of Medicine and Cancer Center.

Hawaiʻi Social Justice Educators Community: A Quarterly Gathering

Date: Thursday, February 22, 2024

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Location: Online via Zoom

Cost: Free

The Hanahau’oli School Professional Development Center and the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa College of Education invite you to a series of hosted events focused on social justice education in Hawai'i. If you are:

• in a role supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, or belonging at school;

• on a committee exploring such issues;

• teaching social justice content in your classes;

• engaged in advocacy or activism around social justice education; or

• interested in such topics…

We invite you to join us for quarterly conversation and networking in a loosely facilitated format, where we will share and explore together the successes and challenges of social justice education in schools in Hawai'i. 

Introduction to Structured Word Inquiry: To Support Reading and Spelling Development in the Classroom

Date: Saturday, January 13, 2024

Time: 9:30-11:30 am

Location: Online via Zoom

Cost: $40 per person

Join Laci Hitchcock for an informative and engaging workshop introducing K-5 teachers to Structured Word Inquiry (SWI).  SWI is a scientific investigation of words: how word parts, structure, origin, and historical development come together to tell the story of what words mean, how words are connected, and how they are spelled. It is an approach to “literacy instruction that engages learners of all ages and abilities by making sense of our surprisingly logical spelling system. English spelling can only be understood through scientific investigation of the interrelationship of morphology (bases & affixes), etymology (historical influences) and phonology (grapheme-phoneme correspondences)” (Bowers & Kirby, 2010). SWI fosters an active and inquiry-based learning environment, encourages students to explore language in a hands-on manner, and promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

In this short introductory workshop, participants will discover the core principles of SWI, its pivotal research contributors, and practical tools essential for implementation. We will briefly experience the power of SWI in enhancing vocabulary development and reading comprehension. We will discover strategies that promote critical thinking, linguistic exploration, and a deeper understanding of word patterns and connections. By the end of the session, educators will be equipped with practical insights and resources to integrate SWI into their daily teaching practices, fostering a more profound appreciation for language among their young learners.

About the Facilitator:

Laci Hitchcock is an Apple Learning Coach and National Board Certified Teacher. She is currently the Curriculum Director at Mary Star of the Sea School. She has been an educator for 11 years while teaching internationally for 5 years. She has experience as a classroom teacher, literacy coach, and curriculum director. Laci believes in fostering student curiosity through an inquiry, innovative and hands-on approach. In Laci’s free time, she loves to go to the beach with her family, run and swim. She also enjoys running half and full marathons and has completed two 70.3 Ironmans.

Come Learn More About the Progressive Philosophy and Pedagogy, MEd Curriculum Studies at an Online Information Session

Date: Monday, December 11, 2023

Time: 4:30-5:30pm Hawai‘i (6:30pm Pacific / 8:30pm Central / 9:30pm Eastern)

Are you ready to answer the call of the progressive education movement? 

Apply for the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa's Progressive Philosophy and Pedagogy, MEd Curriculum Studies with the second cohort beginning Fall 2024. Join like-minded progressive educators seeking to create a better future society through work with children, schools, and communities. As a Professional Development School and partner in this program, field experiences are also available at Hanahauʻoli School.

Applications are being accepted now through March 1, 2024. Join the program coordinators, Dr. Amber Strong Makaiau and Dr. Chad Miller, at a Virtual Information Session which will include a short presentation, question and answer session, and dialogue to share more about the program. Click here to learn more and apply.

Hawaiʻi Social Justice Educators Community: A Quarterly Gathering

NEW DATE: Thursday, November 9, 2023 (previously November 16, 2023)

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Location: Online via Zoom

Cost: Free

The Hanahau’oli School Professional Development Center and the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa College of Education invite you to a series of hosted events focused on social justice education in Hawai'i. If you are:

• in a role supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, or belonging at school;

• on a committee exploring such issues;

• teaching social justice content in your classes;

• engaged in advocacy or activism around social justice education; or

• interested in such topics…

We invite you to join us for quarterly conversation and networking in a loosely facilitated format, where we will share and explore together the successes and challenges of social justice education in schools in Hawai'i. 

Niente Senza Gioia (Nothing Without Joy!): Lessons Learned from a Year-Long Sabbatical in Italy Studying the Reggio Emilia Approach

Date: Monday, November 6, 2023

Time: 4:00pm to 6:00pm

Location: Hanahau’oli School Professional Development Center, located at 1922 Makiki Street

Cost: $15 per person, includes light pupu and refreshments

Sarah DeLuca, early childhood educator at Hanahauʻoli School, spent the 2022-23 school year on a sabbatical in Italy to study the Reggio Emilia approach to teaching and learning. She participated in graduate coursework, school visits, literature reviews, and study tours in the town of Reggio Emilia. Her goal was to incorporate fresh ideas into her own practice as a progressive educator, by focusing on three major aspects of the Reggio Emilia approach:

• The teacher as a researcher of children's thinking

• Documentation as part of "making children's thinking visible”

• The environment as educator, with a focus on a sense of place

In this talk she will share all that emerged from her incredible year of learning and growth, richer and more meaningful than she could have ever imagined. She will explain how she gained an even broader and more beautiful schema of learning, education, and children, and detail the many parallels between progressive education and the Reggio Emilia approach. This will include highlighting the ways in which these learning outcomes were inextricably linked to her experience as a parent of children at an Italian Forest School, and her family’s immersion into Italian culture, and its way of life. The talk will conclude with Sarah’s major takeaways from her sabbatical year, and the unexpected learning outcomes of her experiences.

Sarah DeLuca is a K-1 early childhood educator at Hanahauʻoli School, where she has been teaching and learning with and from her students, colleagues, and families since 2009. Sarah was born and raised in the Kaimuki area and is an alumna of Iolani School. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Oregon in International Studies and her (MEdT) at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She has lived and studied in Italy and enjoys traveling to spend time with extended family there. She finds great joy in working alongside young children, particularly exploring our beautiful island home, creating art, and getting lost in the wonderful world of books.

Hanahau‘oli School Guided Visit for Educators

Date: Thursday, October 12, 2023

Time: 7:30am to 1:00pm

Location: Hanahau'oli School Professional Development Center, 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu HI 96822

Cost: $40 per person; Scholarships are available! Please inquire here.

This fall break, educators interested in learning more about Hanahau‘oli School are invited to visit our campus for a guided learning tour with PDC Director and University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Education School of Teacher Education Specialist, Dr. Amber Strong Makaiau. At this half-day visit, participants will have the opportunity to:

• observe our school-wide, daily community-sharing experience (Flag)

• receive a brief introduction to Hanahau‘oli School’s history of progressive teaching and learning and the work of the Professional Development Center

• embark on a tour of our 146,000 sq ft campus

• spend time observing our multi-age classrooms and team teaching approach

• engage in dialogue with administrators over a hosted lunch

About the Facilitator:

Dr. Amber Strong Makaiau is a Specialist at the University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Education Institute for Teacher Education Secondary Program. She is also the Director of the Hanahau’oli School Professional Development Center and the Director of Curriculum and Research at the University of Hawai‘i Uehiro Academy for Philosophy and Ethics in Education. She is a dedicated practitioner of philosophy for children Hawai‘i who achieved National Board Certification while teaching secondary social studies in the Hawaii State Department of Education for over ten years. Her current projects include carrying out progressive, multicultural, social justice, and democratic approaches to pre-service social studies teacher education, using self-study research methodologies to promote international collaboration, and developing the emergent field of deliberative pedagogy.

Courageous Critical Conversations: Writing Questions to Explore Tough Topics with Elementary Students

Date:  Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Time: 9:00am-3:00pm

Location: Hanahau‘oli School Professional Development Center, 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96822

Cost: $200. Scholarships and neighbor island travel stipends are available! Please inquire here.

In this workshop, Pre-Kindergarten through 6th Grade educators will learn how to create and ask purposeful questions in the practice of Courageous Critical Conversations (CCC)–conversations on the topics of race, class, gender, privilege, sexuality, and racial violence–in elementary curricula. Offered as both a stand-alone and follow up session for those already familiar with the CCC framework, participation in a prior CCC workshop is not required. 

This workshop offers an opportunity for hands-on practice with Courageous Critical Conversations. After some introductory work focusing on identity and goal-setting, participating teachers and administrators will practice writing questions around critical topics that engage, elicit, challenge, honor, and propose action for their elementary students in relation to one or more children’s texts. Participants will leave the workshop with the new and extended knowledge and confidence they need for making Courageous Critical Conversations a regular part of their teaching practice.  

All workshop participants will receive two children’s books related to social/environmental justice that they can use to facilitate Courageous Critical Conversations with their students.  If you are attending a second CCC workshop, you will receive new texts (not the same as the previous workshop). Lunch will be provided.

About the Facilitators:

Rayna Fujii, Ph.D. serves as the Elementary Statewide Coordinator for the University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa College of Education providing licensing for K-6 teachers throughout the island state. Previously, she worked as an elementary school teacher for nine years in the Department of Education for the State of Hawaiʻi. Dr. Fujii currently teaches undergraduate courses on teacher preparation, including introduction to teaching, social studies and multicultural education. Additionally, Dr. Fujii has co-facilitated professional development workshops focused on social studies, social justice issues, CCCs and elementary social studies to in-service teachers. Dr. Fujii has presented her work at local, national and international conferences, including the International Conference for Social Justice, Schools of the Future, National Council for Social Studies, Association of Teacher Educators, and the International Conference on Education Hawai’i. Throughout her career, she continues to pursue her interests in social justice, social studies, teacher education and online/distance learning.

Rosela Balinbin Santos, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor and Cohort Coordinator at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, College of Education working with teacher candidates pursuing a Bachelor's degree in K-6 education. Dr. Balinbin Santos currently teaches undergraduate courses in teacher preparation, including introduction to teaching and social studies. She spent several summers co-teaching an inquiry into Japanese education and field study experience course with other COE faculty in partnership with a university from Japan. Dr. Balinbin Santos has also taught ethnic studies and women’s studies courses at the UH Maui College through the UH Mānoa Outreach Summer Session Program. She has co-facilitated professional development workshops focused on social studies, the Hawaiʻi Core Standards in Social Studies (HCSSS), social justice issues and Courageous Critical Conversations (CCC). Dr. Balinbin Santos serves on the UHM College of Education’s Teacher Education Committee on Social Studies and co-chairs the Tinalak Filipino Advisory Council. She has presented her work at local, national and international conferences, including the Association of Teacher Educators, International Conference for Social Justice, Schools of the Future, National Council for Social Studies, and the Hawaiʻi Educational Research Association. Throughout her career as a former elementary teacher and in higher education, Dr. Balinbin Santos continues to pursue her interests in social justice, diversity, equity and community advocacy.

Lisel Alice Murdock-Perriera, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Studies at Sonoma State University. In addition teaching preservice and in-service teachers during her Doctoral work at Stanford University and as a lecturer at Mills College, Dr. Murdock-Perriera received a three-year teaching fellowship and two independent development (TEAGLE) grants to provide training and course development in rehearsal techniques and pedagogical approaches essential to this project. She has also received small research grants to support this work through her University. Her research in this area has been presented at the Literacy Research Association Annual Conference, the American Educational Research Association Conference, and the Conference on Education and Social Justice. In addition to a publication in Professing Education, she has one manuscript in revision and one under review on the topic of critical conversations. Dr. Murdock-Perriera has coordinated with ten schools and districts and more than thirty classrooms in implementing CCCs with young children (ages 3-10) as well as teaching sections on this topic in two of her courses each semester.

Hawaiʻi Social Justice Educators Community: A Quarterly Gathering

Date: Thursday, September 14, 2023

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Location: Online via Zoom

Cost: Free

The Hanahau’oli School Professional Development Center and the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa College of Education invite you to a series of hosted events focused on social justice education in Hawai'i. If you are:

• in a role supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, or belonging at school;

• on a committee exploring such issues;

• teaching social justice content in your classes;

• engaged in advocacy or activism around social justice education; or

• interested in such topics…

We invite you to join us for quarterly conversation and networking in a loosely facilitated format, where we will share and explore together the successes and challenges of social justice education in schools in Hawai'i. 

ePortfolios: How and Why to Get Started Today

Date: Saturday, September 2, 2023

Time: 9:00am to 12:00pm

Location: Hanahau'oli School Professional Development Center, located at 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96816

Cost: $40 per person, Registration scholarships available! Please inquire here.

Join us for a hands-on workshop with elementary educator Kris Schwengel to learn How and Why ePortfolios will transform your student growth, curriculum documentation, assessments of learning, and communication with families. Beginning with an easy to employ and free Google Slides-based template, we’ll build wildly creative and dynamic slides that demonstrate authentic growth, assessment measures and outcomes, and thoughtful reflections. Learn how ePortfolios can be used for teacher and student collaboration in a way that empowers learners to self-assess, reflect, and communicate about their learning. Gain practical tips for inputting work samples, scores, and artwork, and learn how to guide students in approaching this task independently with enthusiasm. Finally, explore ways ePortfolios can be shared with families in an engaging experience that enhances the important relationship between schools and parents. These treasured ePortfolios are an artifact your students and families will enjoy for decades to come. 

Preschool through 8th Grade educators of all disciplines are welcome. Don't forget to bring an internet-ready laptop or tablet to jump right into the ePortfolio design process!

About the Facilitator:

Kris Schwengel has taught in public and private schools in Hawaii, California, and Japan for 30 years focusing on innovation, project-based learning, and creating a fun environment for his students. He has presented at SXSW, TedTalks, and Schools of the Future. Kris currently teaches at Punahou School, where he employs kid-friendly and engaging technology tools to support student-driven learning in his 4th grade classroom.

“Young Plato:” Film Screening, Dialogue, & Inquiry hosted by University of Hawaii’s p4c Hawaii

Date: Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Time: 5:00–8:00 pm

Location: Hanahau'oli School Professional Development Center, 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu HI 96822

Cost: Free, with option to pre-order dinner

John Dewey (1916) was adamant that there is a deep connection between education and philosophy. He wrote, “If we are willing to conceive education as the process of forming fundamental dispositions, intellectual and emotional, toward nature and fellow men, philosophy may even be defined as the general theory of education” (p. 328). Central to the aims of a progressive education, when philosophy becomes “the general theory of education,” schools become a place where human beings, who have thoughts, feelings, cultures, and experiences, come to engage in meaningful teaching and learning. This core belief about the relationship between philosophy and education is at the heart of the brand new film, Young Plato.

Summarized on the website, Rotten Tomatoes:

An inspiring documentary from the filmmakers of School Life, Young Plato charts the dream of Elvis-loving school headmaster Kevin McArevey -- a maverick who is determined to change the fortunes of an inner-city community plagued by urban decay, sectarian aggression, poverty and drugs. The all-boys primary school in post-conflict Belfast, Northern Ireland, becomes a hot house for questioning violence, as the headmaster sends his young wards home each day armed with the wisdom of the ancient Greek philosophers. The boys challenge their parents and neighbors to forsake the prejudice that has kept this low-level civil war on the boil for decades. Young Plato hums with the confidence of youth, a tribute to the power of the possible.

At this event we will join in community for a night of food, film, dialogue and inquiry. The evening will begin with a catered dinner and conversation. Then we will watch the film Young Plato together. At the film’s conclusion, we will have time for dialogue and inquiry. 

Learn more about this exciting film at youngplato.com

Community SPACES: Social Emotional Learning Activities and Routines to Jumpstart Your School Year

Date: Saturday, August 26, 2023

Time: 9:00am to 2:00pm

Location: Hanahau'oli School Professional Development Center, 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu HI 96822

Cost: $150 per person; Scholarships and neighbor island travel stipends are available! Please inquire here.

All people – children and adults – do their best learning when they feel safe and regulated. This workshop will help all teachers and administrators learn how to incorporate social emotional learning (SEL) practices that promote safety, belonging and co-regulation into any learning or collaborative environment. Research indicates that in order for SEL to have an impact on students, the practices and approaches must start with adults so we will be learning by doing: trying out different practices, discussing, reflecting and considering how we might apply them in our school environments.      

Together Dr. Lauli‘a Ah Wong and Molly Takagi have designed the Community SPACES acronym to represent key elements of supporting the whole child through intentional time for community building and SEL. Key practices that support the following values will be explored in this workshop:

SEL – Direct instruction in the skills of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and responsible decision making

Personalization – Learning that is meaningful and relevant for students

All-inclusive – Opportunities for all students to share their perspectives and value all voices

Connection – Time for students to get to know one another, build relationships, and build an inclusive class community

Experiential – Interdisciplinary learning experiences to support students’ academic, behavioral, and social emotional development

Safety – Dedicated time for instruction in skills for physical and emotional safety and wellbeing

Lunch will be provided.

About the Facilitators:

Dr. Lauliʻa Hart Ah Wong serves as the K-1 Counselor and Co-Director of the Holokū Pageant & CMS May Day Program at Punahou School. She holds a Master’s degree in counseling/psychology and a Doctorate in Education Professional Practice. She has spent over 20 years in the field of education, serving both private and public sectors. As a Native Hawaiian educator and counselor dedicated to life-long learning, Lauliʻa advocates for experiences and environments that build connection, belonging, cultural knowledge and social emotional balance. 

Molly Takagi works as a social emotional learning (SEL) specialist in the Hawaii State Department of Education. She has a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology and 12+ years experience working with students of all ages. Molly is passionate about the importance of integrating SEL into all learning environments through community-building practices and skill development. When she’s not advocating for SEL for all, you can find her practicing yoga, meditating, reading, or spending time with her two young children.

History Education at Hawaiian Schools – Rough Insights into Context and Findings of an Empirical Study

Date: June 29, 2023

Location: University of Hawaiʻi, Mānoa College of Education, located at 1776 University Ave, Wist Hall 128

Cost: Free

Come learn about the research findings that emerged from Dr. Christoph Kuhberger’s time as a visiting scholar at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa College of Education and Hanahau’oli School:

Social Studies in Hawai’i focuses strongly on history. A current empirical study attempts to clarify the significance of Ancient Hawaiian History and the positioning of teachers in relation to the Ka Wā ʻŌiwi Wale: What is considered good history teaching? What topics are central to teachers? What should students learn? Christoph Kühberger, visiting scholar from the University of Salzburg (Austria) at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa College of Education, will give insights into his study before he will return to Europe after a six-month-stay. He will refer to the context of his interview study with teachers from different grades, considering cultural and normative settings. After the presentation, there will be an opportunity for discussion on the presented content and methods.

To learn more about being a visiting scholar at Hanahau’oli, please click here.

About the Presenter:

Christoph Kühberger is Professor at the Department of History at the University of Salzburg in Austria. He is a trained historian and had worked as a middle/high school teacher (grade 5 to 13) before he started his career as researcher in history education. After posts at the University of Salzburg (Austria), the University of Greifswald (Germany) and the University of Hildesheim (Germany), he ended up at the University of Salzburg as Chair of History Education and Civic Education. https://www.christophkuehberger.com/english

Join us for an evening with Brian Selznick, author of "Big Tree", at The Merwin Conservancy's The Green Room arts and ecology series

Date:  Saturday, May 20, 2023

Time: 6:30 - 8:00 pm

Location: Hanahau‘oli School Courtyard, 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96822

Cost: $25 Adults General Admission, $12.50 12 & Under General Admission,

On Saturday, May 20th, we'll come together for an evening of inspiration and conversation with author Brian Selznick in Hanahau'oli School’s open-air courtyard. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Register early; these tickets are expected to go quickly.

The Associated Press called Selznick “one of publishing’s most imaginative storytellers.” Selznick’s most recent bestselling novel Kaleidoscope was a New York Times Notable Children’s Book of 2021. In praising his body of work, The Washington Post said, “Brian Selznick proves to be that rare creator capable of following one masterpiece with another.”

Brian’s new immersive novel Big Tree, his most broadly reaching and ambitious work to date, is a love letter to the natural world. The story follows two tiny sycamore seeds, Louise and Merwin, as they try to save the world while searching for a safe place to grow.

The novel opens with this epigraph:

On the last day of the world

I would want to plant a tree

— “Place” by W.S. Merwin

The story began as an original idea from film legend Steven Spielberg, with guidance by Illumination Founder and CEO Chris Meledandri. It grew into Big Tree, which was released worldwide in hardcover and ebook in April 2023.

General Admission tickets are $25 each plus fees. Tickets for children age 12 and under are $12.50 plus fees.

Click here to learn more about The Merwin Conservancy’s arts and ecology series, The Green Room.

Mahalo to Anne Swayne Keir and the Keith and Judy Swayne Fund for generously supporting the 10th year of this program as a Green Room Host, and to the Hanahau‘oli School Professional Development Center for their generous support.

About Brian Selznick

Brian Selznick is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and acclaimed illustrator whose books have sold millions of copies, garnered countless awards worldwide, and been translated into more than 35 languages. His novel, Big Tree (April 4, 2023 worldwide publication), which began as an original idea from film legend Steven Spielberg, is a trailblazing adventure with nearly 300 pages of illustrations. Selznick broke open the novel form with his innovative and genre-defying thematic trilogy, beginning with the Caldecott Medal-winning and bestselling book The Invention of Hugo Cabret, adapted into Martin Scorsese's Academy Award-winning movie Hugo. He followed that with the #1 New York Times bestseller, Wonderstruck, adapted into the eponymous movie by celebrated filmmaker Todd Haynes, with a screenplay by Selznick, and the New York Times bestseller, The Marvels.

Selznick’s two most recent books for young people, Baby Monkey, Private Eye, co-written with his husband David Serlin, and Kaleidoscope, a New York Times Notable Children’s Book of 2021, were both New York Times bestsellers. He also illustrated the 20th anniversary edition covers of the Harry Potter series. His recent collaborations include a reimagined Nutcracker at the Joffrey Ballet with Christopher Wheeldon and a screenplay of the forthcoming animated version of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby with William Joyce as director.

3 IN-PERSON WORKSHOPS ON

Saturday, February 25, 2023

Sunday February 26, 2023

Saturday May 13, 2023

9:00AM-4:30PM

At Hanahau'oli School

Join us at the Hanahau’oli School Professional Development Center for a locally developed STEM workshop for early childhood educators. Natural Scientists: Children in Charge is designed for educators across the state of Hawai‘i who work with children in preschool through grade 1, and will take place over the course of three face-to-face meetings, with assignments, opportunities for observation at Hanahau’oli School to see this work in action, and coaching along the way.

Designed with a progressive approach to early childhood STEM education, the workshop will explore theories and practices that demonstrate how children learn best when teachers allow understanding to emerge from a student's play, hands-on explorations, and dynamic discussions stemming from interactions with the natural environment. Participants will learn how to maximize the initiative, questions, and observations of children to joyfully integrate STEM exploration in their early childhood classrooms. In alignment with theories that students learn best and are highly motivated when the school curriculum reflects their cultures, experiences, and perspectives, the workshop will feature a number of progressive place-based resources, strategies and experiences that will enrich your curriculum. 

Thanks to a generous grant by the Samuel N. & Mary Castle Foundation, 25 participants will be paid a $300 stipend to participate, and up to 10 educators from neighbor islands will receive an additional $750 travel stipend to cover air, hotel, and ground transportation for the meetings. Participants must be present at all three face-to-face meetings and complete all assignments to receive stipends upon completion of the program. We are seeking to have representation across the Hawaiian islands and acceptance will be offered on a first-come-first served basis after geographic location is considered.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be inspired and experience meaningful ways to engage young children in STEM learning, while being paid to learn and grow!

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

Participants will explore:

• The process for creating a social-emotional safe zone for learning in the early childhood classroom

• How to plan and teach early childhood STEM concepts, related to food sustainability

• Inquiry practices for early childhood STEM education (e.g. asking questions, observing the natural world, gathering and analyzing data, forming conclusions, and taking action)

• Place-based resources for early childhood education

• STEM as “discovery in the natural world” and how technology can be used for making thinking visible, documenting learning, and assessment

Participants will:

• Identify and define progressive and place-based approaches to early childhood STEM teaching and learning.

• Experience and apply progressive and place-based STEM teaching and learning strategies to their particular teaching contexts.

• Experience and build connections with local place-based STEM experts, locations, and resources.

• Design one or more early childhood STEM lessons that meet the needs of students in their particular teaching context. 

• Implement STEM lessons in their particular teaching context and use technology to document student growth.

• Reflect on early childhood STEM lesson implementation in a professional community of inquiry.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS

Lauren Inouye is an early childhood educator who taught at Hanahau‘oli School for 36 years. She was part of the team who pioneered multiage classrooms at the school, and helped to launch the kindergarten and first grade classroom. She is the co-author of a book chapter in the NSTA publication titled, “Inquiry: The Key to Exemplary Science” (2009) and has presented this work “Inquiry With Young Scientists: Helping Children to Investigate Their World” at NSTA national conventions in Boston, New Orleans and San Francisco and at the Early Childhood Math & Science Institute of Region IX Head Start Association in Pasadena, California. She is also a regular presenter at The Hanahau`oli Teacher Collaborative: An Institute for Interdisciplinary Curriculum Design. In her retirement, she continues to work at Hanahau’oli School substitute teaching, tutoring and supporting school initiatives. 

Carla Matsui is a K-1 Teacher at Hanahau'oli School, where she has taught Junior Kindergarten and in the multiage K-1 classrooms for the past ten years. She holds a Master's of Education in Teaching degree from The University of Hawaii at Mānoa in Education and Teaching, along with credentials in Early Childhood Education from Chaminade University. She previously taught at KCAA Preschools and in the DOE. Her role in the project will include helping to plan and teach the Natural Scientists: Children in Charge workshop.

Summer P. Maunakea, PhD is an assistant professor of Native Hawaiian and Indigenous Education and Leadership at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, College of Education. Currently, she teaches courses on curriculum leadership, place-based education, sustainability, interdisciplinary science and social studies grounded in an indigenous perspective. As part of the Kokua Hawaiʻi Foundation’s ʻĀINA In Schools team, she instructs professional development courses that prepare educators, parents, and community members to teach from the ʻāina, utilizing the ʻĀINA In Schools Curriculum. Summer is a lifelong learner of intergenerational approaches to the holistic well-being of people and the natural environment. Her role in the project will include connecting educators to the transformative community organizations and partners that aim to support Hawaiʻi educators.

Robert G. Peters, EdD served as Hanahau`oli Head of School from 1982 to 2013.  He received a Doctorate in Education from the University of Massachusetts, with a concentration in Foundations of Education and Curriculum Design.  Currently he serves as Chair of the Hawaii State Early Learning Board and is President of the Samuel N. & Mary Castle Foundation Board of Trustees.  Peters has taught graduate curriculum courses for the University of Hawaii and in the UH/HAIS Masters Degree Program in Private School Leadership.  He is the primary instructor in an annual summer institute titled The Hanahau`oli Teacher Collaborative: An Institute for Interdisciplinary Curriculum Design. Dr. Peters has served on a number of local and national boards and is currently a member of the State Advisory Council for the federal Preschool Development Grant and an accreditation trainer for HAIS.

Mollie Taylor is a JK Teacher at Hanahau'oli School. She holds a Master's degree from The University of Hawaii at Manoa in Curriculum Studies for the ages Pre K-3. She also holds a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Mollie attended Hanaha'oli School as a child and enjoys the full circle process of continuing her learning here now as a teacher. Her role in the project will include helping to plan and teach the Natural Scientists: Children in Charge workshop.

HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawai`i: Literacy in the Digital Age

Date:  Friday, April 28, 2023

Time: 4:30-6:00PM

Location: Hanahau‘oli School Professional Development Center, 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96822

Cost: Free!

If traditional literacy means the ability to read and write effectively, then digital literacy means the ability to communicate and create digitally. In our emerging digital world, a new medium of exchange has developed: online engagement. Effectively engaging online requires a myriad of skills that we strive to foster in school – effective written communication or storytelling. Just as we anticipate that the traditional communication skills we teach children as part of our established curriculum will translate to a broader skill set, so will their ability to engage with people effectively online. Likewise, just as we do not need to establish a separate curriculum or class for “digital literacy,” we can incorporate updated 21st century communication skills such as visual storytelling across our established curricular models.

The revised Bloom’s Taxonomy suggests that creation is at the highest order of learning. With new technologies, students have the ability to create dynamic, multimedia content. By combining these tools with sophisticated topics, we engage students in new and creative ways.

Join us at this public talk to hear from a panel of our HIKI NŌ teachers, educational experts, student journalists, and visual storytellers. They will share examples of the integration of new and old literacies to perpetuate our island tradition of storytelling, deepen learning, increase student engagement, enable authentic assessment, and better prepare our haumana for college, career, and life – regardless of what profession they choose to explore. Also, learn how you can use HIKI NŌ resources and partner with HIKI NŌ to enhance learning opportunities for your students and school community. 

About HIKI NŌ & the Panelists: 

HIKI NŌ is the first and only weekly student news show with a statewide network of schools. Under their teachers' guidance, students from over 100 public, private and charter schools from across the islands share stories from their communities to Hawaiʻi and the world. 

To learn more and view episodes of HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawai‘i, visit www.pbshawaii.org/programs/hiki-no

Robert Pennybacker is a 4th generation Korean American, grew up in Honolulu, and is an honors graduate from the USC School of Cinematic Arts. In his forty-year career in Hawaii's broadcast industry, Robert has written approximately 25 television documentaries, and has held leadership positions at KGMB, KHON, and PBS Hawaii, where he is currently V.P. of Learning Initiatives. Robert has been the executive producer of the station's HIKI NO student digital storytelling network since its inception in 2011.

Brent Keane grew up on the windward side of Oahu. His passion for media and design began at Kalāheo High School where he was introduced to various aspects of media production in the Communication Arts program. From there he went on to earn a degree in Visual Communications from Collins College in Tempe, AZ. After college, he started a company specializing in database driven websites as the Art Director, and synthesized his passion for photography, design, and technical skills by developing a boutique Photo Booth Service. More recently he moved into the world of video production and television, doing everything from master control and video production to being general manager at a small, local station. All this has led him to be a part of the PBS Hawaii HIKI NŌ team where he looks forward to inspiring and preparing the next generation to succeed in a field he has zealously pursued.

Matt Lorin is currently HIKI NŌ Education Coordinator.  He is a distinguished servant leader with extensive local, state, national and international service. He is recognized for expertise in educational equity, family and community engagement, youth development, and animal-human bond. He has extensive experience engaging and mobilizing families, employees & communities, leading organizations, building alliances and ‘earning’ movements. He has served with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, Emerson Collective, The Learning Coalition (TLC), and Hawai’i FIDO Service Dogs. He currently advises HIKI NŌ, teaches the art of entrepreneurship at Punahou School and Island Pacific Academy (IPA).

Amy Wada grew up in Honolulu and graduated from the Master of Education in Teaching (MEdT) program at UH.  This is her fifth year teaching 4th grade at Waikiki Elementary.  HIKI NO was brought to Waikiki through the innovation and guidance of Principal Bonnie Tabor and Dr. Toby Yos, a specialist in Philosophy for Children (p4c) at UH.  This is the school's 3rd year partnering with HIKI NO to amplify student voices beyond the four walls of the classroom.

Jason Marvel is in his 3rd year as a 5th grade teacher at Waikiki Elementary, after attending UH’s MEdT program. He previously worked as a documentary cameraman in the film and television industry. Before that, he completed the documentary program at the International Center of Photography in New York City. And before that, he received his undergraduate degree in East Asian Studies from USC. He has enjoyed applying his background in storytelling and cinematography to his language arts and social studies curriculum to support the students in bringing their stories and understanding to life.   

Isaiah Matsunaga is an 8th grader currently attending Iolani School. He is actively involved with Iolan's Track and Field team and also participates in the intermediate band, where he's already had the chance to participate in several performances. This past summer, he was selected to represent Kaimuki Middle School at the National Youth Leadership Forum in Berkeley where he had the opportunity to participate and gain experience with what college life on campus and in the dorms would be like. He is also currently active in Boy Scout's and during his free time he loves to game and continues to learn how to code on his own. He has interest in Videography however his ultimate goal is to become a software engineer. While attending Waikiki Elementary, Isaiah participated in the Hiki Nō Experience. He was recognized and awarded a Student Voice Award from Mental Health America Hawaii for his Hiki Nō student reflection.

Hawaiʻi Social Justice Educators Community: A Quarterly Gathering

Date: Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Location: In person in the Hanahau‘oli School Professional Development Center

Cost: Free

The Hanahau‘oli School Professional Development Center invites you to a series of hosted events focused on social justice education in Hawai‘i. If you are:

• in a role supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, or belonging at school;

• on a committee exploring such issues;

• teaching social justice content in your classes;

• engaged in advocacy or activism around social justice education; or

• interested in such topics…

We invite you to join us for quarterly conversation and networking in a loosely facilitated format, where we will share and explore together the successes and challenges of social justice education in schools in Hawai‘i. 

A component of a new five-year Social Justice Education in Hawaii Project offered by Hanahau‘oli School and the University of Hawai’i at Manoa College of Education, these informal gatherings are offered at no cost. Light refreshments will be served. 

Health & Safety Measures:

- Masks and social distancing are now optional while visiting our campus.

- A brief online health questionnaire will be sent to participants on the morning of the event and must be completed and submitted prior to arriving on campus.

Teaching About Reproductive Justice In Our Schools

Date: Saturday April 15, 2023

Time: 9:00am-4:00pm

Location: Hanahau'oli School Professional Development Center, 1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu HI 96822

Cost: $200 Registration scholarships available! Inquire here. Additionally, all neighbor island educators are eligible for a $200 travel stipend upon completion of the program.

In this workshop, we will address how to navigate educating young people about sexual and reproductive health care following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. We will offer historical and current issues relating to contraception and abortion care and access in the U.S., locally, and throughout the Pacific. The loss of legal access to abortion care has had immediate and devastating effects in many areas and has particularly affected already marginalized populations including Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous peoples. Many states that now prohibit or severely limit access to abortion care also limit sex education in their K–12 schools and do not provide comprehensive, medically accurate, or evidence-based education. What are some implications of denying access to reproductive health care and to sex education? Join us in this important discussion to engage in meaningful work towards social justice. 

Lunch will be provided.

About the Facilitators:

Lisa M. Vallin, PhD, MA works as a lecturer in the Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Department at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa where she teaches various courses in sexuality studies. Her research focuses on pedagogical practices as they apply to the sex education classroom. She is passionate about sexuality studies and strives to improve the health and wellness of sexual life. She is also active in the community, consulting, and teaching sex education in K–12 settings. 

Shandhini Raidoo, MD, MPH is an assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine and a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. She provides comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care, including abortion and contraception services, and teaches medical students, residents, and fellows. She is passionate about adolescent health and sex education and is engaged in research and community-based efforts to improve the sexual health and well-being of young people.