In the ever-changing landscape of education, two schools, Barber’s Point Elementary and Nānākuli High & Intermediate, are pioneering transformative change in collaboration with INPEACE through their innovative Community Schools initiatives. These strategic approaches aim to cultivate a “Greater Together” mindset, harnessing the strengths and resources within their respective communities to empower students, families, and staff.

Chasity Cabral, a first-time mom, first learned about the Hiʻilei program while attending Kaulele’s Kapa Exhibit at Ka Makana Aliʻi. She stumbled upon a brochure that outlined the program’s offerings, and it piqued her interest. As a new mother, Chasity ardently sought guidance on her child’s learning and development. She longed for a supportive community where she could freely ask questions, gain insight into her child’s development, and find support for her growing ʻohana.

As a Mākaha Elementary sixth grader, Kealapono Samson participated in the Eō afterschool program at Waiʻanae Elementary School. Eō offers a free culture and place-based afterschool program where students learn and develop culturally grounded leadership skills. In the self-exploration unit, he researched his moʻokūʻauhau (genealogy) and learned how to share his hoʻolauna (introduction) in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi.

Kamahaʻo Kaai, a dedicated Kumu at Pūnana Leo o Waiʻanae and mother of two young children, embarked on her journey with Hoʻāla in June 2021. Her introduction to the program came through the glowing recommendation of another parent whom Hoʻāla had previously assisted. At the time, Kamahaʻo had two pressing concerns: the search for suitable childcare placement for her youngest, who was just ten months old, and the need for financial aid options.