The INPEACE Early Literacy Institute (ELI), an initiative which intertwines Hawaiian culture with the vital mission of nurturing early literacy. The program spans several locations across the islands, including Hilo, Waiʻanae, Nānākuli, Kapolei, and the island of Kauai. This program, deeply rooted in evidence-based practices, embraces the concept of “shared literacy” to cultivate children’s language skills through inclusive learning methods.
At its essence, ELI reaches into various educational settings, from family childcare to home visiting programs, center-based preschools, and family child interaction learning initiatives. With dual aims, the program strives to fortify the foundational language and literacy abilities of Hawai’i’s youngest learners while actively involving families in fostering language and literacy development at home.
Central to ELI’s philosophy lies the elevation of oral language skills, guided by a culturally enriched curriculum inspired by the Doors to Discovery approach. Teachers and families receive an abundance of resources, including books highlighting Hawaiian and Indigenous cultures, complemented by corresponding materials and Hawaiian implements, enriching instructional content.
Embedded within the program’s framework are continuous support mechanisms. Educators partake in monthly professional development sessions facilitated by Dr. Colleen Whittingham, engage in mentor coaching, and join quarterly professional learning communities. Additionally, families are invited to virtual family literacy and cultural education nights, featuring esteemed educator Dr. Kū Kahakalau discussing the Mauli Framework.
Through active engagement and reflective practices, educators continue to craft innovative strategies, ensuring sustained growth and development in early literacy education across Hawai’i.
