On February 26, 2024, the Nā Pono No Nā ‘Ohana Program visited WLC to learn about canoe and medicinal plants. Aunty Ilima Ho-Lastimosa, Community Coordinator and native to Waimānalo, shared the uses of ‘olena, niu, ulu, kukui, mamaki, and many other canoe and la’au plants with the families. The keiki used their senses to kilo (observe) the environment.  They gathered ‘olena (turmeric) and kukui, got to feel the prickly outer skin of a soursop, and held millipedes as they dug in the lepo (dirt). Program participant Makoa McCallister’s makuahine (mother) shared, “I liked finding the different color ‘olena with my son.” The families supported outdoor learning by encouraging keiki to be free, explore, and investigate. It was a great day to be outdoors!

Written by: Cheri Richards

In a dedicated effort to deepen their connection to ʻāina and foster a profound understanding of their local environment, students at Mālama Honua recently have been working on their Uka and Wai Projects. This endeavor delves into the intricate web of Hawaiian flora and fauna found in the uka (upland) regions, as well as examines our critical resource of wai (water), emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts.

The projects tasked students with researching an aspect of wai or illustrating and researching a chosen animal or plant that is native to the upland areas of Hawaiʻi. These comprehensive presentations cover various aspects, including conservation of resources, fun facts, habitat, etc. The initiative not only showcases the students’ creativity but also highlights their dedication to learning about and preserving the biodiversity and ecosystems that make Hawaiʻi unique.

Kahea (Mālama Honua 4th grader) highlighted that only 3% of the world’s water is suitable for drinking, calling attention to the critical role water plays in sustaining life. Willa shared traditional wisdom, stating, “Our kupuna would save water in their ʻipu for access to fresh water during droughts.” Reese added, “Drought is likely in lower climates with less rain,” emphasizing the vulnerability of certain regions to water scarcity. 

Aryana, a participating second grade student, shared insights into the Uka project’s significance, “Our Uka Project is about different plants and animals that live in uka. It is important because many of our plants and animals in Hawaiʻi are endangered.” This sentiment echoes the broader awareness among the students about the fragile state of the local ecosystem. Kauʻi, emphasized the urgency of the conservation message, “It is our kuleana to mālama the birds that are endangered. We have invasive animals and plants that are ruining our ecosystem.” This acknowledgment underscores the students’ commitment to preserving the delicate balance of Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems.

These projects not only serve as a platform for students to showcase their research skills but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between the environment and the community. The Mālama Honua students are not merely learning about plants and animals; they are cultivating pilina with ʻāina, acknowledging their responsibility as stewards of the land. This project encourages students to see the interconnectedness of land, sea, and sky. Through their dedication to understanding the ʻāina and its inhabitants, they are actively engaging in the preservation and mālama of Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems. It is evident that Mālama Honua students are not just acquiring knowledge; these students are taking meaningful steps towards a more sustainable and harmonious future for our islands.

Written by Cassidy Cox