"Through this experience, I have met many amazing friends and mentors who have helped me grow as an educator."

Hometown

Halawa, HI

Department

School of Teacher Education - Elementary

Related Degrees

• BEd, Elementary Education

How did you become interested in the field of education?
I knew from a young age I wanted to be a teacher. The field of education gives me a chance to learn more about myself, education content, and my community.

Where are you student teaching?
I am at Wai‘anae Elementary School.

How has the COE program impacted or benefited your career path?
Through this experience, I have met many amazing friends and mentors who have helped me grow as an educator. The support I have received has made me sure of pursuing an education career.

What is your most memorable experience from being a part of the Ka Malu O Kaiona* cohort?
I took lead in coordinating a lot of aspects of our community advocacy project. We painted some of the staircases at Wai‘anae Elementary School. I loved being able to work with my other cohort members and form relationships with other professionals in the community. Since my cohort is placed out on the Wai‘anae coast, it was nice to contribute to this community.

What are your future visions and goals?
I plan to continue teaching and get a master’s degree in either counseling or education. Other than that, I just want to enjoy what the present moment has to offer and perfect my craft as an educator.

Anything else you would like to include about your student teaching placement on the Wai‘anae Coast?
I actually did not select the Wai‘anae Coast for my initial placement, but I’m so glad I was placed in there. I love the kids on the west side. They have made me feel welcomed and loved. They have made a difference in my life, and I hope to continue making a difference in theirs.

*Ka Malu O Kaiona is a K-6 elementary cohort in the School of Teacher Education Elementary Program coordinated by Dr. Rosela Balinbin Santos. Based in Wai‘anae Coast partner schools with the goal of recruiting future teachers for and from Wai‘anae Coast communities, the program focuses on place-based learning, culturally relevant pedagogy, and community advocacy. Spring 2022 marks the second cohort of graduates from the Ka Malu O Kaiona.