The 2025 Early Childhood Education Conference on Kaua‘i, themed “I ka wā ma mua, I ka wā ma hope”, encouraged participants to “let us learn from the past to perpetuate our traditions and culture, so that our island’s keiki can thrive.”
Hosted at Kauaʻi Community College, the annual event brought together more than 100 passionate educators dedicated to teaching the island’s littlest learners. KS Preschools kumu from both Kaumakani and Kapaʻa preschools focused on promoting the integration of Hawaiian culture-based education into all classrooms, strengthening the foundation of early learning through ʻike kupuna.
Kumu Bernadette Costa and Skye Espino shared ʻike Hawaiʻi and made poi parfaits with conference goers.
Kumu Bernadette Costa and Skye Espino shared ʻike Hawaiʻi and made poi parfaits with conference goers.
At three breakout sessions, KSP kumu shared foundational steps in creating a curriculum grounded in Hawaiian culture, innovative strategies and fun hands-on activities to ensure that Indigenous knowledge is a vital part of keiki learning experiences.
Erika Sakamoto, Toni Gonsalves and Keiko Francisco from Kaumakani Preschool shared insights from their combined 54 years of teaching experience, detailing their journey in designing an HCBE curriculum and supportive activities tailored for preschoolers.
“Ipu to Kula to Hula ,” presented by Kumu April Taguiam, Tina Taniguchi, and Mali Roden, shared the inspiring journey of growing ipu at tKapa‘a Preschool, and turning them into ipu heke ‘ole. Kumu Mali used seeds grown from their previous kula location in Anahola, nurturing them with intention. Of 20 seeds planted, five thrived and were later transformed into ipu instruments with guidance from Kumu April’s hālau workshop and the help of haumāna.
Anna Peters, KSP Kaua‘i region hope po‘o kumu, added, “The workshops contribute to our kumu’s growth, and the opportunity to connect with vendors and resources means we can bring new knowledge and support back to our kula and ʻohana. It’s inspiring to see how these experiences ripple out, strengthening our classrooms, as well as the ʻohana and communities we serve.”
While some KSP kumu initially felt nervous about leading breakout sessions, they embraced the opportunity, recognizing their role in perpetuating E Ola! learning outcomes. By engaging and inspiring fellow educators, they contribute to a movement that ensures Hawaiian culture is actively lived and celebrated.
Kauaʻi kumu create paper mache island models.
Kauaʻi kumu create paper mache island models.
“I like the feedback, seeing everyone enjoy creating and sparking new ideas of ways to engage keiki,” Toni Gonsalves said after her session.
Through their leadership, Kaua‘i’s kumu are shaping a future where Hawaiian culture remains a vibrant, integral part of early childhood education – one that honors the past while empowering the next generation.
Kauaʻi kumu Keiko Francisco, Erika Sakamoto and Toni Gonsalves presented HCBE curriculum building and interactive activities.
Kauaʻi kumu Keiko Francisco, Erika Sakamoto and Toni Gonsalves presented HCBE curriculum building and interactive activities.
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ks preschools,early education,employee ʻohana,our employee ʻohana,kauai
CATEGORIES
Kaipuolono Article, Regions, Kaua’i and Ni’ihau, Themes, Culture, Community, Employee ‘Ohana, Ka ʻohana Kamehameha, KS Announcements, Newsroom, Preschools, Community Education, Community Events, KS Kaiāulu, Oiwi Leaders, Preschools
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