In 2008, I agreed to go on a blind date with a kindergarten teacher at Wai'alae School. Eventually, that date turned into a marriage and that teacher became the dean of students of Wai'alae School. As our relationship grew, so did my relationship with Wai'alae.
Although my husband is now at another school, in the years he was a Wai'alae teacher and in administration, I attended many school events like Halloween, Fun Fair, May Day and Curriculum Nights. I was welcomed and treated like 'ohana by the students, teachers, staff and Wai'alae families. I can remember one event, when we brought our 2-year old son who ran into the middle of the yard. In the craziness, I watched a group of Wai'alae students look after my son, not knowing who his parents were, just that he was at Wai'alae. They made sure he got up when he tripped and tried to include him in their play.
I thought to myself, this is what they teach at Wai'alae School: the importance of academics, but also social-emotional learning and how to contribute positively in our society.
Over the last few years, I have had the opportunity to observe and work closely with Wai'alae’s administration. The teachers and staff truly believe in its mission to educate the whole child. This is something that I appreciate as a mother and a community member. So, when my husband left Wai'alae, we both wanted to remain connected to this school we had bonded with so deeply. I have been honored to serve on the Wai'alae School Foundation's board of directors, and am currently the board president.
Being a charter school allows Wai'alae School to create their own curriculum and environment for learning, and most importantly, its own community. And we all know just how special Wai'alae's community is. Thank you for allowing me to continue to be a part it.
-Lee Higa-Okamoto, president, Wai'alae School Foundation