Welcome to the 2025 Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa Complex Area Summit! We are thrilled to host the 8th Annual KKP CA Summit at Keaʻau High School Campus, where we’ll come together to inspire, learn, and grow as a collective body.
This year, we are honored to announce our keynote speaker, Nainoa Thompson, Master Navigator and President of the Polynesian Voyaging Society. Nainoa is a true embodiment of achieving excellence with intention, leading the way for the Hōkūleʻa crew as they prepare for the transformative Moananuiākea Voyage—a bold, four-year circumnavigation of the Pacific.
In addition to Nainoa’s powerful address, we’re excited to offer a variety of breakout sessions featuring dynamic speakers and topics from national, state, and local community agencies, as well as our own Complex Area and school educators. Together, we’ll explore innovative ideas and actionable strategies to support our students, schools, and communities. Let’s make this summit a time of connection, growth, and shared purpose as we continue to thrive together. Mohala I ka wai ka maka o ka pua - Flowers thrive where there is water, as thriving people are found where living conditions are good. #KKPCA_Thrives
(20 PARTICIPANTS ONLY DUE TO SUPPLIES) This hands-on workshop will help participants (teachers, professionals, administrators, etc.) explore ways to support students and families using a multi-sensory approach—engaging smell, taste, touch, and sound. Participants will learn to create immersive learning experiences grounded in Hawaiian language and culture, focusing on the celestial world of the heavens and stars.
Lisa Letoto-Ohata (NPN UHM Program Assistant) has been working for Nā Pua Noʻeau for nearly 15 years and is passionate with working with our Native Hawaiian keiki and wants to see them succeed.
Kinohi Gomes (NPN UHM Director) has been working for Nā Pua Noʻeau for over 25 years and is passionate and committed to creating opportunities for Native Hawaiian ʻohana and keiki of all ages.
Christopher Warsh (NPN UHM Support Specialist) is the latest Nā Pua No‘eau team member with expertise in detailed program coordination for keiki and 'ohana and using multimedia as a means for program documentation.
Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST
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Join the Kea’au High School Science Department for this hands-on experiential workshop to learn how to use the Claim, Evidence, Reasoning (CER) framework to get your students thinking like a scientists! CERs can be used in all grade levels and science disciplines. Participants will be familiarized with the CER process and then have a chance to try it out themselves by rotating through stations with examples appropriate for both elementary and/or secondary.
Discover how the DiSC personality assessment can revolutionize your communication skills and leadership effectiveness. This interactive session will delve into the four primary DiSC styles - Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness - and explore how they shape our communication behaviors. Join us for a transformative session that will equip you with the tools to improve your communication skills, enhance your leadership abilities, and create a more positive and productive learning environment.
Educational Specialist, HIDOE Office of Talent Management - Leadership Institute
Gina is a dedicated educator with over two decades of experience in the Department. She is passionate about fostering student success and empowering teachers through professional development. With a strong focus on data-driven instruction and curriculum development, Gina has successfully... Read More →
about Gina is a dedicated educator with over two decades of experience in the Department. She is passionate about fostering student success and empowering teachers through professional development. With a strong focus on data-driven instruction and curriculum development, Gina has successfully supported numerous school improvement initiatives and most recently served as the ESSER State Lead for Responsive Capacity Building. She is committed to building strong relationships with students, parents, and staff to create positive and inclusive learning environments.
In an increasingly digital world, bridging technology with Hawaiian Culture-Based Education (HCBE) is key to fostering excellence in learning. This presentation highlights how Waihona.net—a collaborative repository of ʻIke Hawaiʻi—and advanced AI tools like Magic School, ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Copilot can empower educators to create and share culturally rooted resources aligned with Nā Hopena Aʻo (HĀ). By streamlining lesson planning, enhancing personalized learning, and supporting ʻike kūpuna, these tools equip kumu (teachers) to embody and model the values of belonging, responsibility, excellence, aloha, total well-being, and Hawaiʻi for their haumāna (students). Participants will leave with actionable strategies to use these tools in ways that honor ʻike Hawaiʻi while addressing modern educational challenges, ensuring every kumu is equipped to foster a culturally responsive classroom. Join us to discover how technology can enhance HĀ-centered practices and support teachers in elevating Hawaiian identity and community well-being.
Dr. Kanoe Wilson is a dedicated educator, cultural practitioner, and Senior Project Manager at Kamehameha Schools. With a Doctorate in Education from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, her expertise lies in Hawaiian Culture-Based Education (HCBE), ʻŌiwi leadership, and integrating... Read More →
Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST
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In this session, you will learn about the Hawaiian educational philosophy, Kumu Honua Mauli Ola, and simple strategies to increase Hawaiian language use in your classroom and at your school. Kumu Kini Kaawa will share how these strategies are performed at Pāhoa High and Intermediate School and their impact on the overall well-being of the school community.
Pāhoa High and Intermediate School, Hui Hawaiʻi Moaniani Lehua
Aloha mai, ʻo Kini Kaawa koʻu inoa. He kama na ke ahupuaʻa ʻo Kailua, Koʻolaupoko, Oʻahu. He pukana na ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻo Ānuenue a me Ka Hakaʻula ʻo Keʻelikōlani. He kumu Hawaiʻi e aʻo ana i ka papa ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, papa hula, a me ka papa hana noʻeau Hawaiʻi... Read More →
Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST
H-205
General Education Teachers; Participants will learn how to implement accommodations found in 504 plans and IEPs appropriately and in an individualized manner. It will probe participants to think deeply about the support to which students are entitled.
Arianna Henry is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist who serves 4 schools in the KKP Complex Area. She is committed to advocating for students' needs and making sure that school is a welcoming and supportive place for students with diverse brains and diverse needs.
Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST
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Pamela Moniz-Pena has been a Licensed Behavior Analyst for KKPCA SBBH for the last 2 years. Previously, she was a Behavioral Health Specialist for 14 years working both on the Big Island and Oahu. Pamela works with classroom teachers and school teams on prevention skills, focusing... Read More →
Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST
H-106
In this session, you'll discover how NotebookLM, an innovative AI-powered tool, can revolutionize your workflow and boost productivity. Explore core functions that allow you to seamlessly integrate diverse sources into your notebooks, and learn how to master its advanced features for greater efficiency and impact. Through hands-on activities, you'll build notebooks designed for different purposes, gaining the skills and confidence to leverage NotebookLM to streamline your processes and empower you to confidently add a powerful new AI tool to your toolbelt.
Educational Specialist, HIDOE Office of Curriculum and Instructional Design
Shane is a passionate advocate for leveraging technology to transform learning. With nearly two decades of experience in Hawaii's education system, he has a proven track record of driving successful technology initiatives at all levels. As a Technology Integration Specialist for the... Read More →
Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST
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Hui! Do you have students eager to enter the workforce and earn a livable wage after graduation without going into debt?
Join our union and industry expert panelists for informative sessions for educators. These panels will provide valuable insights on guiding students and those interested in union apprenticeship programs to a pathway to employment.
Our panelists will walk through the essential steps for students to begin working and how to apply for and enter apprenticeship programs. They will highlight how these programs help develop skilled workers and offer a debt-free path while earning a livable wage. Some may obtain industry-specific certifications.
Educators will gain the knowledge and tools to better support students in navigating to good jobs and great opportunities! We hope you join us!
Simón Miera
TalkingPoints Senior Partner Success Manager
Teacher for 15 years and School/District Admin for 3 years
Working in Ed Tech around Family Engagement and Formative Assessment for over 5 years
Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST
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This session, "Tinkering with Purpose: Building SEL Skills through STEM Integration," is designed for teachers of all grade levels. Participants will explore how hands-on STEM activities can be intentionally crafted to enhance Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) skills, such as collaboration, problem-solving, resilience, and empathy. Through engaging examples and interactive discussion, attendees will learn practical strategies for integrating SEL with STEM in ways that support student growth, curiosity, and interpersonal skills. By the end of the session, educators will have a toolkit of ideas to inspire purposeful "tinkering" in their classrooms.
Olga Kalashnikova is a preschool teacher at Naalehu Elementary School, where she brings learning to life through hands-on activities that spark creativity and curiosity in her students. With a background in social sciences and performing arts from the University of California, Berkeley... Read More →
(20 PARTICIPANTS ONLY DUE TO SUPPLIES) This hands-on workshop will help participants (teachers, professionals, administrators, etc.) explore ways to support students and families using a multi-sensory approach—engaging smell, taste, touch, and sound. Participants will learn to create immersive learning experiences grounded in Hawaiian language and culture, focusing on the celestial world of the heavens and stars.
Lisa Letoto-Ohata (NPN UHM Program Assistant) has been working for Nā Pua Noʻeau for nearly 15 years and is passionate with working with our Native Hawaiian keiki and wants to see them succeed.
Kinohi Gomes (NPN UHM Director) has been working for Nā Pua Noʻeau for over 25 years and is passionate and committed to creating opportunities for Native Hawaiian ʻohana and keiki of all ages.
Christopher Warsh (NPN UHM Support Specialist) is the latest Nā Pua No‘eau team member with expertise in detailed program coordination for keiki and 'ohana and using multimedia as a means for program documentation.
Friday January 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am HST
G-109
In this session, you will learn about the Hawaiian educational philosophy, Kumu Honua Mauli Ola, and simple strategies to increase Hawaiian language use in your classroom and at your school. Kumu Kini Kaawa will share how these strategies are performed at Pāhoa High and Intermediate School and their impact on the overall well-being of the school community.
Pāhoa High and Intermediate School, Hui Hawaiʻi Moaniani Lehua
Aloha mai, ʻo Kini Kaawa koʻu inoa. He kama na ke ahupuaʻa ʻo Kailua, Koʻolaupoko, Oʻahu. He pukana na ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻo Ānuenue a me Ka Hakaʻula ʻo Keʻelikōlani. He kumu Hawaiʻi e aʻo ana i ka papa ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, papa hula, a me ka papa hana noʻeau Hawaiʻi... Read More →
Friday January 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am HST
H-205
General Education Teachers; Participants will learn how to implement accommodations found in 504 plans and IEP's appropriately and in an individualized manner. It will probe participants to think deeply about the supports to which students are entitled.
Arianna Henry is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist who serves 4 schools in the KKP Complex Area. She is committed to advocating for students' needs and making sure that school is a welcoming and supportive place for students with diverse brains and diverse needs.
Friday January 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am HST
G-108
Pamela Moniz-Pena has been a Licensed Behavior Analyst for KKPCA SBBH for the last 2 years. Previously, she was a Behavioral Health Specialist for 14 years working both on the Big Island and Oahu. Pamela works with classroom teachers and school teams on prevention skills, focusing... Read More →
Friday January 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am HST
H-106
In this session, you'll discover how NotebookLM, an innovative AI-powered tool, can revolutionize your workflow and boost productivity. Explore core functions that allow you to seamlessly integrate diverse sources into your notebooks, and learn how to master its advanced features for greater efficiency and impact. Through hands-on activities, you'll build notebooks designed for different purposes, gaining the skills and confidence to leverage NotebookLM to streamline your processes and empower you to confidently add a powerful new AI tool to your toolbelt.
Educational Specialist, HIDOE Office of Curriculum and Instructional Design
Shane is a passionate advocate for leveraging technology to transform learning. With nearly two decades of experience in Hawaii's education system, he has a proven track record of driving successful technology initiatives at all levels. As a Technology Integration Specialist for the... Read More →
Friday January 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am HST
G-104
Hui! Do you have students eager to enter the workforce and earn a livable wage after graduation without going into debt?
Join our union and industry expert panelists for informative sessions for educators. These panels will provide valuable insights on guiding students and those interested in union apprenticeship programs to a pathway to employment.
Our panelists will walk through the essential steps for students to begin working and how to apply for and enter apprenticeship programs. They will highlight how these programs help develop skilled workers and offer a debt-free path while earning a livable wage. Some may obtain industry-specific certifications.
Educators will gain the knowledge and tools to better support students in navigating to good jobs and great opportunities! We hope you join us!
We will be providing a brief introduction to Sources of Strength.
In this interactive session, we will explore how to empower a well world through:
- Strengths-Based Storytelling: Sharing personal narratives to inspire and uplift. - Strategic Messaging: Crafting impactful messages that resonate with diverse audiences. - Relational Connection and Play: Building strong bonds through fun and engaging activities.
Each of us brings unique strengths and experiences to the table. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive community.
School Renewal Specialist, Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa Complex Area
Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Christopher Ho attended the Las Vegas Academy of Performing Arts studying Orchestra and Choir. After finishing High School he started his career in the Food and Beverage industry and stayed there for 15 years. In 2001, he started attending UNLV... Read More →
Simón Miera
TalkingPoints Senior Partner Success Manager
Teacher for 15 years and School/District Admin for 3 years
Working in Ed Tech around Family Engagement and Formative Assessment for over 5 years
Friday January 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am HST
G-105
All teachers and instructional leaders; Participants will delve into the multifaceted concept of student engagement. We will explore the interplay of student, content, and teacher and key components of engagement, including behavioral, cognitive, and emotional engagement. By understanding these layers, educators can align strategies to create more engaging and effective learning environments.
Test Development Specialist, HIDOE - Assessment Section
Tyler is a passionate education leader who served for over a decade in middle school ELA and Social Studies classrooms and education nonprofits before joining the HIDOE Assessment Section in June 2023. Currently, he oversees HIDOE's Educator Leader Assessment Collaborative (ELAC... Read More →
Friday January 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am HST
E-113
(20 PARTICIPANTS ONLY DUE TO SUPPLIES) This hands-on workshop will help participants (teachers, professionals, administrators, etc.) explore ways to support students and families using a multi-sensory approach—engaging smell, taste, touch, and sound. Participants will learn to create immersive learning experiences grounded in Hawaiian language and culture, focusing on the celestial world of the heavens and stars.
Lisa Letoto-Ohata (NPN UHM Program Assistant) has been working for Nā Pua Noʻeau for nearly 15 years and is passionate with working with our Native Hawaiian keiki and wants to see them succeed.
Kinohi Gomes (NPN UHM Director) has been working for Nā Pua Noʻeau for over 25 years and is passionate and committed to creating opportunities for Native Hawaiian ʻohana and keiki of all ages.
Christopher Warsh (NPN UHM Support Specialist) is the latest Nā Pua No‘eau team member with expertise in detailed program coordination for keiki and 'ohana and using multimedia as a means for program documentation.
Complex Area Resource Teacher, Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa Complex Area
Aloha! My name is Kristin, and I serve as the Social Emotional Resource Teacher for the KKP Complex Area. I work closely with school teams to develop and implement comprehensive social-emotional learning (SEL) opportunities for both students and staff. I am deeply passionate about... Read More →
In this professional development session, participants will learn how to identify student intervention needs, select evidence-based interventions aligned with those needs, set ambitious goals using a RtI framework, and match appropriate data collection strategies to intervention targets. Additionally, they will explore how to use the Panorama platform's intervention tab to effectively track and manage intervention data.
Alec Marentic is a school psychologist supporting the Pāhoa complex. He has background knowledge and graduate training in implementing academic interventions, data tracking, and progress monitoring. He is a state delegate to the National Association of School Psychologists and past... Read More →
General Education Teachers; Participants will learn how to implement accommodations found in 504 plans and IEP's appropriately and in an individualized manner. It will probe participants to think deeply about the supports to which students are entitled.
Arianna Henry is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist who serves 4 schools in the KKP Complex Area. She is committed to advocating for students' needs and making sure that school is a welcoming and supportive place for students with diverse brains and diverse needs.
In this session, you'll discover how NotebookLM, an innovative AI-powered tool, can revolutionize your workflow and boost productivity. Explore core functions that allow you to seamlessly integrate diverse sources into your notebooks, and learn how to master its advanced features for greater efficiency and impact. Through hands-on activities, you'll build notebooks designed for different purposes, gaining the skills and confidence to leverage NotebookLM to streamline your processes and empower you to confidently add a powerful new AI tool to your toolbelt.
Educational Specialist, HIDOE Office of Curriculum and Instructional Design
Shane is a passionate advocate for leveraging technology to transform learning. With nearly two decades of experience in Hawaii's education system, he has a proven track record of driving successful technology initiatives at all levels. As a Technology Integration Specialist for the... Read More →
What does it mean for our students to be GLOBALLY COMPETITIVE, LOCALLY COMMITTED? Come and hear from local union leaders about opportunities within their respective fields and hear about what the requirements are within those pathways. Are our students prepared?
Hui! Do you have students eager to enter the workforce and earn a livable wage after graduation without going into debt?
Join our union and industry expert panelists for informative sessions for educators. These panels will provide valuable insights on guiding students and those interested in union apprenticeship programs to a pathway to employment.
Our panelists will walk through the essential steps for students to begin working and how to apply for and enter apprenticeship programs. They will highlight how these programs help develop skilled workers and offer a debt-free path while earning a livable wage. Some may obtain industry-specific certifications.
Educators will gain the knowledge and tools to better support students in navigating to good jobs and great opportunities! We hope you join us!
Participants will explore how language is purposeful and patterned to its particular genre and aimed at comprehension and communication. Audience: K-12 educators
Cherrish, Pinky, and Robin are KKP educators supporting Multilingual Learners in their respective school and complex area roles. These dedicated multilingual educators have a passion for creating positive and supportive classrooms that build strong relationships with students, promote active engagement, and create a safe and welcoming space for all learners. Together, they have many years of experience fostering inclusive and engaging learning environments.
We will be providing a brief introduction to Sources of Strength.
In this interactive session, we will explore how to empower a well world through:
- Strengths-Based Storytelling: Sharing personal narratives to inspire and uplift. - Strategic Messaging: Crafting impactful messages that resonate with diverse audiences. - Relational Connection and Play: Building strong bonds through fun and engaging activities.
Each of us brings unique strengths and experiences to the table. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive community.
School Renewal Specialist, Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa Complex Area
Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Christopher Ho attended the Las Vegas Academy of Performing Arts studying Orchestra and Choir. After finishing High School he started his career in the Food and Beverage industry and stayed there for 15 years. In 2001, he started attending UNLV... Read More →
Simón Miera
TalkingPoints Senior Partner Success Manager
Teacher for 15 years and School/District Admin for 3 years
Working in Ed Tech around Family Engagement and Formative Assessment for over 5 years
Aloha, my name is Margarette Solano. I am a School Psychologist for KKPCA SBBH. I moved from New Jersey to Hawai'i to complete my graduate internship in 2023. Upon completion, I obtained my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in children/adolescents, in addition... Read More →
