Apr. 7, 2025

During a class huakaʻi to Lahaina in February, Kamehameha Schools Maui junior Kahoa Kapuaʻala scooped dirt away with her hands to make way for a young ʻaʻaliʻi to be planted in the soil of Kuʻia. 

“Being able to contribute and feel more connected to the land is something that I’m very proud of,” Kapuaʻala said. “After we leave today, I’m going to feel accomplished knowing that I helped not only restore the land but also contributed to the revitalization of our culture and planted native species – some that are very sacred and scarce.” 

“It’s just been a really fun experience.” 

Kapuaʻala was one of about 15 haumāna and three kumu who made the first school trip out to Kuʻia to kākoʻo the ongoing reforestation and conservation work being done by KS’ ʻĀina Pauahi team working alongside kaiāulu. Haumāna from grades 9-12 planted about 100 wiliwili and aʻaliʻi plants on a site named Ka Malu, whose meanings include: the shade, the shelter or the protection.