“The Hoapili pathway really opened doors for me by providing the classes I needed and being almost free, enabling me to go from part-time to full-time student.”

Hometown

Hāna, Maui

Department

School of Teacher Education - Secondary

What COE program were you a part of?

I earned my MEd in Secondary Education in Social Studies (Hawaiian Immersion) and was part of the Hoapili Pathway and BAM program.

Why did you decide to pursue an education degree? 

I guess I would be considered “untraditional” because I returned to school later on in life. After I graduated high school, I attended Southern Oregon University in Ashland, Oregon, majoring in environmental science. After only two years, I returned home due to financial difficulties and a family emergency. Shortly after moving home, I got pregnant and started a family. I put school on hold, but I had faith that I would return to school and finish what I started and get my BA. When I enrolled my daughter in Pūnana Leo and volunteerd there, I felt a spark, that maybe teaching in my language is something I can do. I began taking ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi classes through Maui Community College and found my path through the hoapili pathway and the BAM program. I guess you could say that ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi and the keiki influenced me to pursue an education degree.

Briefly describe your road to college.

I went to college right out of high school, but didnʻt finish. Years later, after becoming a mom, I was finally ready to finish what I started. My path looked different, but my goal was still the same, to earn a bachelorʻs degree. Fortunately, all of my classes were offered online, so I could still be there for my kids, work and go to school. The Hoapili pathway really opened doors for me by providing the classes I needed and being almost free, enabling me to go from part-time to full-time student.

After meeting with a counselor from UH Mānoa, I could see myself earning a bachelorʻs degree in Hawaiian studies. Then she mentioned the BAM (Bachelorʻs and Masterʻs) program. I never even dreamt of earning a masterʻs degree or a teaching license, but it was all lining up, and I believe this is what destiny looks like. I never imagined that I would do all of that, earn a teaching license, and become a Kumu Kaiapuni, but anything is possible when you grab the opportunities in front of you and trust that Akua and your kupuna are guiding you.

What is your philosophy of teaching?

My philosophy of teaching is building good relationships with my students and making learning fun and relevant. When students trust their teacher, have fun while learning and can relate to the content being taught, they understand what they are learning and they can apply it to their own lives, bringing it full circle. Learning is more than just memorizing facts and completing assignments, it’s about creating meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of what they are learning and how it applies in real life.

Any advice for others who are juggling work, family, and school?

My advice to anyone who is juggling work, family, and school is remember your why. In the hard times, in crunch times, and deadlines, remember your reason why. Why you are doing this. There will always be hard times, but “this too shall pass.” Itʻs only hard for a little while, until you figure it out, then its pau. If you need help, reach out to your professor, a good friend, or your family. There is no shame in asking for help.

What are your future plans?

In the near future, I plan on teaching at Kula Kaiapuni o Kekaulike and taking some classes on the side to keep learning and growing my mind. One day I hope to return to Hāna and become a Kumu Kaiapuni at my alma mater and give back to my community who raised me.

Anything else you would like to share?

As an “untraditional” student, I want to say there is no shame or wrong in going back to school later in life. In fact, learning and education hits a little different when youʻre older; I feel you appreciate it more. Anytime is the right time to educate yourself. Just do it! You wonʻt regret it!

Johrae was featured in a Maui News article titled Ka‘ana Mana‘o: Spring commencement honors journeys of perseverance.