September 27, 2024 was a special day for our school community as we held our second Lā ʻOhana of the year. The purpose of this event was to give mākua and ʻohana the opportunity to experience firsthand what their haumana are working on during their Aloha ʻĀina Education days. Each grade level participated in different hands-on activities that align with their curriculum and the ʻāina they mālama. Here’s a glimpse of the day’s highlights:
Papa Nowelo (Grade 12)
Our senior haumana shared their manaʻo about their senior projects, offering a look into the incredible work they have been doing. Following the presentations, mākua and haumana participated in outdoor activities, further connecting with one another through play and practice.
Papa Loʻi (Grade 11)
Mākua and ʻohana spent the morning immersed in the loʻi space at 'Aihualama, learning about the work their haumana are doing to mālama this sacred area. Together, we explored the land, deepened our connection to ʻāina, and gained a better understanding of the loʻi system that nourishes both body and soul.
Papa Hana Noʻeau (Grade 10)
This session was an introduction for mākua and ʻohana to the Aloha ʻĀina Education process for the Hana Noʻeau students. Participants engaged in gathering and preparing kūkaʻa hala and learned about the ongoing efforts to identify and mitigate the presence of Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles on campus, a crucial part of mālama ʻāina.
Papa Waʻa (Grade 9)
Mākua joined their haumana in activities centered around waʻa culture at KVA. Short lines were brought by haumana, and mākua were invited to experience the canoe themselves, learning about the skills and values that are instilled during Aloha ʻĀina Education.
Papa Ko Kula Uka (Grade 8)
This class focused on planting new life into the ʻāina, where mākua and ʻohana worked alongside haumana to cultivate and mālama what will soon grow and sustain future generations.
Papa Ko Kula Kai (Grade 7)
Mākua had the opportunity to visit Aunty Mahealani’s hale to learn the process of making an umu. This traditional cooking method is a deep part of our culture and a great way for ʻohana to bond while learning together.
Papa Ahupuaʻa (Grade 6)
This group met at FECH (Family Education Center Hawaiʻi), where mākua and haumana explored different aspects of the ahupuaʻa system, engaging in hands-on learning that ties together culture, environment, and community.
This Lā ʻOhana was a powerful reminder of the importance of ʻohana and the collective effort required to mālama ʻāina and perpetuate our culture. We look forward to seeing how these shared experiences continue to strengthen our community. Mahalo nui to all who attended!
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