"Students will make more of an attempt to learn if they feel that the teacher cares for them, respects them, and wants to teach them."

Hometown

Waipahu, Hawaiʻi

Department

Curriculum Studies

Related Degrees

• MEd, Curriculum Studies: National Board Certification Teacher Leader

What drew you to the Aloha Kumu* program?
Dr. Vail Matsumoto encouraged me to obtain my master’s through this program because it leads to National Board Certification for teachers. I also liked the fact that the same teachers are taking the same classes together, which builds camaraderie.

What is your current position?
I am currently a math teacher at Waipahu High School and have been there for 21 years.

What is your philosophy of teaching?
My philosophy is based on respect; it goes both ways. The student respects the teacher, and the teacher respects the student. Students will make more of an attempt to learn if they feel that the teacher cares for them, respects them, and wants to teach them. I try to be strict but fair and consistent.

Describe your road to becoming an educator.
I first obtained my bachelor’s degree in psychology, hoping to be a child psychologist. After a short stint at the Salvation Army, I wasn’t sure of my career path. That is when a friend/mentor of mine suggested teaching. I took 2 1/2 years to get my professional diploma and started at Waipahu High School, which is my alma mater. I can now say that I am teaching my former student’s children!

*The Aloha Kumu Cohort is made up of teachers in Nānākuli, Waiʻanae, Kapolei, Waipahu, and Honolulu schools. The program is based on a Hawaiian perspective of health, well-being, relationships, and education. The focus is on community-based education and National Board Certification. Please contact Dr. Kimo Cashman at kcashman@hawaii.edu for more information.