“I plan to continue teaching until I retire, and I would love to spend my entire career at Waialua Elementary—hopefully just like my mom!”

Hometown

Mililani, Oʻahu

Department

Educational Foundations

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How did you become interested in the field of education?
Education has always been a big part of my life. Both of my parents are educators, so I grew up seeing firsthand the impact teachers can have on their students and communities. Their passion for education inspired me to follow in their footsteps and become an educator myself.

Where do you currently work?
I currently teach fourth grade at Waialua Elementary School.

How is the beginning of school going so far in your new classroom?
The beginning of the school year has been amazing! I absolutely love my class and feel very fortunate to be part of the Waialua community, which feels like a second family to me. I actually had the opportunity to substitute for many of the students in my class when they were in second grade in my mom’s classroom. Because of that, I already had a connection with many of my students and some of their families before becoming their teacher. It has made the transition into my own classroom especially meaningful.

What has been your favorite moment so far this school year?
One of my favorite moments so far has been hosting PE with all of the fourth-grade and second-grade students. It has been so much fun, especially because I get to work alongside my mom. Being able to share the experience of teaching with her has been really special.

How has the COE program impacted or benefited your career path?
The College of Education program at UH has taught me so much and has helped me continue to grow as an educator. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have been given through UH. I also want to give a huge shoutout to UH Athletics for supporting me financially throughout college and helping make it possible for me to pursue my Master’s degree in education. I am very thankful for the support that allowed me to continue my education and pursue my goals.

What are your future plans?
I plan to continue teaching until I retire, and I would love to spend my entire career at Waialua Elementary—hopefully just like my mom! Being part of the Waialua community means so much to me, and I hope to continue making a positive impact on the students and families here for many years to come.

Anything else you would like to include?
I would love to give a huge shoutout to all of my fellow teachers, educational assistants, and everyone who works in education. Education takes a village, and I am so grateful for all of the people who work behind the scenes and alongside teachers to support our students. I am proud to be part of such an incredible community of educators.