July 8, 2026
Get to know the Kamehameha Schools kumu who are inspiring haumāna and helping shape the future of our lāhui.
What inspired you to become a kumu at KS?
In 2008, I was drawn to Kamehameha Schools as a preschool kumu because it aligned with what I believe about how keiki should be nurtured and guided in their learning, with a strong focus on the whole child. That still shapes how I support my papa mālaaʻo haumāna and carry out my kuleana in the classroom today.
Tell us about a time you saw your haumāna use what they’ve learned to make a difference. What did that mean to you?
This year, after introducing the Building Thinking Classroom approach, I noticed a shift in my classroom. My haumāna began independently helping each other. They explained their thinking, encouraged one another, and worked through challenges without waiting for my help.
They are having fun, staying engaged, taking risks, and using what they’re learning to problem solve. They are supporting one another and making a difference in our classroom. More haumāna are feeling confident to share their thinking and be part of the learning. It means a lot to me because it shows they’re not just learning content; they’re learning to listen to one another, internalize their own thoughts as well as accept different ideas, and work together to build understanding.
What is something your haumāna have taught you about yourself?
My haumāna have taught me, and continue to teach me, that I am evolving as a kumu. They’ve helped me recognize an internal shift in how I see my role. I’m learning to step back and let their thinking lead.
Where do you see Pauahi’s legacy most in your work?
I see Pauahi’s legacy most in my interactions with haumāna, ʻohana, and hoa kumu. In my classroom, I strive to create a space where haumāna feel safe, valued, capable, and begin to understand their ʻōiwi identity. I stay connected with ʻohana and build trust. I also work alongside my peers, so we can learn from each other and grow as ‘ōiwi-serving kumu.
Shout out a fellow kumu who empowers their students every day!
It’s impossible to choose just one person. Shout out to all my hoa kumu who show up every day and mālama our keiki. We get to be kumu here at Kamehameha Schools Hawaiʻi, and it truly is a blessing!