On March 21, 2018, the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa College of Education (COE) had its second annual COE Day at the Capitol in conjunction with Education Week. More than 30 COE faculty, staff, students, and alumni gathered at the Hawai‛i State Capitol to showcase programs, celebrate achievements, and build relationships with legislative staff and community stakeholders.
In addition to highlights of the college’s award-winning programs, global research, and community impact, this year’s event featured the recognition of three outstanding COE mentor teachers as well as Miss Hawai‛i USA 2018.
Senator Michelle N. Kidani honored the outstanding mentor teachers before an audience in the Senate Gallery: Ben Boltz (MEdT, School of Teacher Education) from Waipahu High School, Susan Nakama (MEd, Curriculum Studies) from Kalei‘ōpu‘u Elementary School, and Joni Wong (MEd, Special Education) from Pearl Harbor Elementary School. Senator Stanley Chang honored Julianne Chu, the current Miss Hawai‛i, who earned her BEd in Elementary Education.
“We were pleased to take part in Education Week at the Capitol and engage in conversations with legislators and other attendees about the importance of teacher education and the diverse impact that the COE has across the state,” said Jessica Miranda, COE Director of Assessment, Accreditation, and Accountability. “We look forward to future opportunities to engage with our Hawai‛i legislators.”
The event continues to be well received with support and attendance from numerous senators, representatives, committee chairs, and legislative aides. Plans for next year’s third annual COE Day at the Capitol are underway.
