Aug. 27, 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?
A big inspiration in my life has been my mom, who has been a kumu at Kamehameha Schools for over 30 years. Watching her dedication, energy, and love for teaching deeply influenced me. I wouldn’t have the desire or momentum to do what I do today without her example. Seeing the joy she found in teaching and the impact she made on her haumāna inspired me to become the kumu I am today.
I was raised with six siblings, so growing up I was always surrounded by children and helped care for my younger sisters. Those experiences taught me responsibility, patience, and the importance of community. Later, when I had keiki of my own, I wanted a career that allowed me to be present for them and home when they were. Becoming a kumu fit that need.
Throughout my education journey, I have been a single māmā raising four keikikāne. Being their māmā has always and continues to motivate me to grow, lead with purpose, and raise them with strong values. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to teaching, giving back, and leading by example for both my keiki and my haumāna.
Tell us about a time you saw your haumāna use what they’ve learned to make a difference. What did that mean to you?
I am reminded of how much my haumāna have grown since the beginning of the school year as I see them practice aloha, mālama, and kuleana. The keiki show kindness, help one another, and take responsibility for caring for their classroom.
What stood out most was when families shared that their keiki were using the same values at home — reminding siblings to be kind, helping with chores, and talking about caring for their ʻohana and environment. Seeing the keiki carry these lessons beyond the classroom showed me that the learning was meaningful and lasting. It affirmed for me that even at a young age, keiki can understand and live out important values, making a positive difference within their ‘ohana and our lāhui.
What is something your haumāna have taught you about yourself?
My haumāna have taught me the importance of slowing down and being fully present. Through their curiosity, honesty, and openness, they remind me to see the world with fresh eyes and to find meaning in the simple moments. They have shown me that learning does not always look the same for every keiki, and that patience, flexibility, and listening are essential parts of being an effective kumu.
My haumāna have also taught me to lead with aloha. In their natural ability to care for one another, forgive quickly, and try again, I am reminded daily of the power of kindness and grace. Their actions reaffirm my belief that when keiki feel safe, valued, and loved, they are capable of incredible growth. These lessons continue to shape me both as a kumu and as a māmā.
Where do you see Pauahi’s legacy most in your work?
I see Pauahi’s legacy most clearly in the opportunities I have each day to nurture our youngest learners with intention and care. In my work, that legacy shows up in creating a learning environment rooted in aloha, mālama, and kuleana — where keiki feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are.
Shout out a fellow kumu who empowers their students every day!
A special mahalo to my mom, Annette Kaʻapana, whose 30+ years as a kumu at KS continue to inspire me daily through her passion, energy, and love for teaching.
Mahalo to my teaching team, Macey Mokuhāliʻi and Caitlin Poe, for their teamwork, support, and dedication to our haumāna. A heartfelt shout out to Christie Zimmer, a teaching partner who always encouraged me and pushed me to grow into the kumu I am today.
And mahalo to my hope poʻo kumu, Peggy Kalalau, for her continued guidance and support as I stepped into this new role. I am grateful to be surrounded by such inspiring educators.