Hawaiian Studies Program philosophy

DOE Hawaii Hawaiian Studies Info

The knowledge of our Kūpuna is the guiding light that directs our purpose in support of Hawaiian Education. Hawaiian education perpetuates the skills, knowledge, values and practices of the native people of Hawaiʻi and their innovations and resilient response to adapt to an ever-changing world. Hawaiian education leads to the development of a cultural lens that preserves core Hawaiian perspectives. Hawaiian education goes beyond content learning as it also includes internalizing and putting into practice the teachings of our Kūpuna.

Knowledge, skills and practices that are an integral part of Hawaiian education include, but are not limited to:

• Ka mālama ʻāina — knowledge and stewardship of the land, ocean, and sky

• Ka moʻolelo Hawaiʻi — knowledge and usage of the language, legends, stories, and arts

• Ka nohona — knowledge and practice of Hawaiian culture and way of life

• Ka ‘ike kūpuna — knowledge and consideration of history, origins, genealogy and governance of Hawaiʻi

Core Hawaiian perspectives in teaching and learning include, but are not limited to:

• Ka pilina — recognizing and honoring relationships and inter-connections

• Ka mahalo — displaying gratitude and appreciation

• Ke aloha — showing compassion and kindness