Life at KS

Bernice Pauahi Bishop’s desire to create educational opportunities in perpetuity to improve the capability and well-being of people of Hawaiian ancestry is something that resonates deeply with all Kamehameha Schools employees. Our workforce is committed to and passionate about doing our best work to fulfill this mission at every level every day.

“I am reminded daily of my obligation to reflect the strengths and intelligence of our kūpuna, and more importantly, supporting our haumāna to walk in their footsteps.”

JAY-R KAAWA
Head of Summer and Extended Learning, Maui Campus

“KS offers a unique opportunity to both learn about and contribute to a thriving Hawaiian culture. I'm humbled and proud to get to be a part of this ‘ohana.”

ZAC SCHAFER
Multimedia Designer, Ho‘okahua

“Working for Kamehameha Schools has allowed me to work in Hawai‘i, for Hawai‘i, while raising a family.

I love seeing how technology plays a big part of the mission and vision of Ke Ali‘i Pauahi.”

JAMES MANIBOG
Manager, TDS - Operations

“A large part of what attracted me to Kamehameha Schools is the feeling of ‘ohana and community, its passion, commitment, and sense of shared responsibility to perpetuate Princess Pauahi’s legacy. Additionally, I value the organization’s continued investment in the health and well-being of its students, faculty, and staff—empowering everyone to reach their full potential.”

NATALIE ARRELL
Director, Philanthropy

Our values bring us together

More than a job: The KS Community

KS culture: It's a kākou effort

ʻŌlelo Kahua

E ola ka ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i! The language lives!

One of the goals in our strategic plan is to normalize ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i at KS. As part of that goal, KS introduced ‘Ōlelo Kahua, or Hawaiian Language Foundation classes, to staff in 2015. Those foundational classes were designed to teach staff useful and practical Hawaiian phrases, how to introduce themselves in Hawaiian, and basic pronunciation and vocabulary. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, ‘Ōlelo Kahua is now offered on Wednesdays, alternating between online and in-person formats. These sessions serve as a platform for staff to engage with colleagues and kumu in ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i, fostering an understanding of language, culture, and the rich history of our land and people. ‘Ōlelo Kahua presents a professional and cultural development opportunity for staff and underscores Kamehameha Schools’ dedication to its identity as a high-performing Native Hawaiian institution.

Morning Wāhie

Kamehameha Schools has many beloved and time-honored traditions which hold a special place in our hearts. Among these is Wāhie, an optional gathering where the KS ‘ohana comes together to share uplifting music, inspirational mana‘o (thoughts), and prayer. Traditionally held each morning across all KS work locations, Wāhie is now accessible in both in-person and virtual formats, ensuring its continuity and inclusivity.

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Legacy of a Princess

Nurture the child and the lāhui thrives. Kamehameha Schools founder Ke Ali‘i Bernice Pauahi Bishop cared deeply for her people, the ʻāina of her birth, and her culture. Learn more about her enduring act of aloha and the legacy which is Kamehameha Schools.