Hoʻākea Hilo
On December 16, 2025, Keonepoko Elementary hosted Hoʻākea Hoʻonui: Mauka to Makai. Third, fifth, and sixth graders from Keonepoko and Pāhoa rotated through stations led by local community organizations.
Keonepoko Elementary School came alive on December 16, 2025 for Hoʻākea Hoʻonui: Mauka to Makai, a hands-on learning experience built to inspire curiosity, connection, and kuleana to ʻāina and community. Third, fifth, and sixth grade haumāna from Keonepoko and Pāhoa Elementary joined in for the day.
Students rotated through stations hosted by local community organizations dedicated to nurturing the next generation of wayfinders, leaders, and aloha ʻāina stewards. Along the way, haumāna explored new interests, got a glimpse of possible future career pathways, and strengthened the confidence, leadership, and navigator mindset that will guide them as stewards of their island home.
Mahalo to the Hawaiʻi Department of Education, the County of Hawaiʻi, the Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa Complex Area, and Mālama ʻĀina Foundation, whose support and sponsorship made the day possible.