DELTON KEKAHUNA | EMPOWERING QUALITY EDUCATION
In 2007, graduating from Wai‘anae High School, Delton Kekahuna never imagined his journey would lead him to come full circle. Unsure of his next steps after high school, he began working at WHS as a paraprofessional teacher (PPT). As a PPT, an educational worker who is not licensed to teach, he worked one-on-one with students as part of their IEP (Individual Education Program) and performed other supportive duties in the classroom. After several years, he became an Educational Assistant (EA) fulfilling the role of a teacher’s aide. “Mr. K”, as he is affectionately known by his students, is currently a long-term substitute teacher. Through the years, he has created pilina with his students and colleagues, and participated with INPEACE’s Ka Lama Educational Academy.
He realized that he wanted to make a difference on the teacher turnover rate because he witnessed firsthand the negative impacts that frequent and continual teacher turnover has on students and schools.
His once unsure and independent mindset has grown into an ‘ohana spirit that solidified his decision to become a teacher because of the reciprocal bonds he makes with students and colleagues.
This inspired him to maintain his own educational journey, being the first in his family to attend college, attaining his Associates in Arts degree and now attending UH-West O‘ahu’s Bachelors in Secondary Education program with a minor in Special Education.
He believes his experience as a PPT, EA, and long-term substitute has encompassed aspects for him to become a well-versed teacher. With the encouragement of other teachers and INPEACE staff, he believes he’s surpassed the most difficult hurdles. Long-term he would like to achieve a Doctorate degree and eventually develop a college scholarship fund for students who may not have the highest GPA’s, but whose passion for learning is boundless.
