“My hope is always to support the unique needs of and provide all students with materials that will genuinely spur their interests and enhance their learning experiences.”

Hometown

Kailua, HI

Departments

School of Teacher Education - Elementary; Special Education

Related Degrees

• BEd, Exceptional Students & Elementary Education

Congratulations on being a runner-up in the first COE Classroom Makeover Contest! What does this award mean to you?
I am incredibly grateful and honored to be named a runner-up for the Classroom Makeover contest. This recognition means so much because it directly translates into resources for my students. My hope is always to support the unique needs of and provide all students with materials that will genuinely spur their interests and enhance their learning experiences. Whether it’s through supplies found at Fisher Hawaiʻi to design engaging lessons or simply enriching our classroom environment, this award affirms the importance of investing in the endless potential of our haumana and validates the hard work we do every day to make a difference in their lives.

Where do you work?
I am currently working as a first-grade general education teacher at Kapunahala Elementary School in Kāneʻohe. I partner closely with our school’s first and second-grade special education teacher, Ms. Mai Sack (also a former COE/ESEE program graduate), to support the diverse needs of all learners in our classrooms. This collaboration allows us to differentiate instruction effectively, conduct data-driven assessments, and implement personalized learning strategies for students with and without IEPs.

How did you become interested in the field of education? Special education?
My interest in working with children began early through roles such as becoming an afterschool care leader, a part-time teacher for art and locomotor activities, and teaching K–5 physical education. A prerequisite class during my freshman year—originally intended for a degree in kinesiology—entirely shifted my perspective. One session focused on outdoor education and the profound benefits of utilizing each child’s individual learning styles. This concept completely changed how I viewed working with youth and inspired me to change my focus to education. As I was taking my final prerequisite classes and applying to cohorts, I had the privilege of studying abroad in London. Taking classes with Dr. Elizabeth Brook Chapman de Sousa and exploring schools in London cemented my love for the field of education and showed me the endless possibilities within teaching.

How has the COE program impacted or benefited your career path?
The UH Mānoa College of Education program, and specifically the ESEE program, has been foundational to my career. I was initially drawn to the program after speaking with Dr. Janet Kim, who highlighted its strong focus on inclusive practices. I had the privilege of learning from professors who genuinely cared about preparing us to show up for our students in every way we can. The program didn’t just teach us what to teach, but how to ensure that all students have a high-quality, inclusive experience within our classrooms—a philosophy I carry into my classroom every day as I partner with various individuals within my school.

Is there anyone in particular who inspired you to pursue a career in education?
As mentioned before, my initial career path was set toward kinesiology, but an influential prerequisite class that highlighted individual learning styles and outdoor education completely redirected me toward teaching. That experience was the foundational spark. However, the continued passion and dedication I bring to the classroom are deeply influenced by my family, the educators I have had the privilege of watching teach, and the professors who have supported me on this journey. My stepmother is an educator, and her dedication to the community of haumana she supports continues to inspire me to do the same for the students at my school. This collective guidance pushes how I teach every day.

What is your philosophy of teaching?
I believe that our teaching philosophy really changes and grows the more experience we gain, but the following are crucial pieces of my teaching philosophy that I will always carry with me. I believe a classroom must first be a safe and respectful space where every student feels seen, heard, and valued enough to take risks and make mistakes. It must be inclusive, ensuring that all students—regardless of ability or background—have equitable access to the curriculum and the specific support they need to thrive. Finally, I hold high expectations for every learner. By pairing unwavering belief in their potential with the necessary scaffolding, I empower students to rise to the challenge, develop independence, and become confident, lifelong learners.

What will you do with your Classroom Makeover prize ($100 Fisher Hawaiʻi gift card)?
I am excited to dedicate the Fisher Hawaiʻi gift card to enhancing the hands-on learning experience in my first-grade classroom, particularly for reading instruction. My philosophy centers on providing an inclusive environment with high expectations, and tactile materials are crucial for first graders to grasp foundational literacy skills. These resources will allow me to meet the diverse needs of all my students in a fun, engaging, and meaningful way.