Scholarships
HEA Scholarships for Current & Aspiring Educators
The mission of the Hawaii Education Association Scholarship Fund is to support the educational endeavors of Hawaii educators, HEA members, and their dependents to shape their future to reach their full potential.
HEA offers a slate of scholarships for public school teachers, administrators, educational assistants, student teachers, college students, and graduating high school seniors. These scholarships assist current and future teachers with professional development and achieving college degrees. HEA has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars to hundreds of scholarship recipients in the teaching profession. Our goal is to help you become the best that you can be.
In-Service Public School Educators
Scholarship Amount: $2,000
For tenured and/or permanent Hawaii State Department of Education pre-K – 12 teachers, school administrators, or educational assistants, HEA offers scholarships to support study or training.
Ronald K. Toma Professional Learning
Scholarship Amount: Varies
For tenured Hawaii State Department of Education pre-K – 12 teachers and school administrators, HEA offers scholarships to support those pursuing enrichment opportunities and professional learning.
Student Teachers
Scholarship Amount: $2,000
For student teachers intending to teach in the Hawaii State Department of Education, HEA and the family of Helen McKay have established a Student Teacher Scholarship to minimize the need for employment during the student teaching semester.
HEA Richard Keakahiwa/Wilhelmina Luna Scholarship
Scholarship Amount: $2,000
For full-time undergraduate students majoring in education and intending to teach in a Hawaii public school, HEA is pleased to offer the HEA Richard Keakahiwa/Wilhelmina Luna Scholarship to assist with college.
Continuing College Students
Scholarship Amount: $1,000
HEA offers college scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a career in education.
Graduating High School Seniors
Scholarship Amount: $2,000
HEA offers college scholarships for graduating high school seniors who will enroll in any two-year or four-year accredited institution of higher learning.
HEA Carol H. Yoneshige Undergraduate College Students
Scholarship Amount: $3,000
For full-time undergraduate students majoring in education in their 2nd or 3rd year, intending to teach in a Hawaii public school, elementary or secondary level.
HSTA-Retired/HEA Professional Development Grant
Scholarship Amount: $2,000
For HSTA members in good standing and have been HSTA members for at least one year, have a Baccalaureate degree, and have a commitment to continue in the field of public education.
HEA/HSTA-Retired Susan Hagiwara Special Education Teacher Micro Grant
Scholarship Amount: Varies
HEA/HSTA-Retired is offering grants up to $500 each that will be deducted by priority applications until the $8,000 threshold is atttained.
2026-27 Scholarship Recipients
Congratulations to our 2026-27 HEA scholarship recipients. These exceptional current and future teachers showcased exemplary skills, drive and dedication to achieve their professional goals and pursue excellence in their careers.
2026-27 In-Service Public School Educator Scholarship
Lauren Collier
Kaneohe Elementary School Lauren Collier is a special education teacher at Kāneʻohe Elementary School and a statewide leader dedicated to advancing inclusive education for Hawaiʻi’s students. With more than a decade of experience in special education, Lauren serves as president of the Hawaiʻi Chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children while mentoring educators and leading initiatives that strengthen equitable practices across the state. Her scholarship will help offset the cost of pursuing a doctor of education degree in educational leadership at the University of Southern California, where she is studying instructional change with a focus on educational equity and inclusive systems. Through her research and leadership, Lauren is committed to improving instructional decision-making, supporting fellow educators, and ensuring students with disabilities have access to high-quality, culturally responsive learning opportunities throughout Hawaiʻi’s public schools.
2026-27 In-Service Public School Educator Scholarship
Eleonor Simonette Ines
Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School Eleonor Simonette Ines is an English Language Arts teacher and team lead at Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School. She focuses on strengthening student-centered learning and instructional leadership in Hawaiʻi’s public schools. Currently pursuing a master of education in curriculum studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Eleonor combines her classroom experience with research in progressive pedagogy, culturally responsive teaching, and Philosophy for Children to better serve her students and colleagues. Her scholarship will help offset the cost of graduate tuition, allowing her to continue her studies while balancing the financial responsibility of supporting her family. Passionate about educational equity and teacher leadership, Eleonor looks forward to applying her advanced learning to curriculum development, mentoring fellow educators, and creating meaningful, culturally grounded learning experiences that help all students thrive.
2026-27 Ronald K. Toma Professional Learning Scholarship
MaliaLee Akutagawa
Molokai High School MaliaLee Akutagawa is a veteran educator at Moloka‘i High School who has dedicated more than 20 years to helping students succeed. With a bachelor of science degree from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, MaliaLee is committed to continuously strengthening her teaching practice to meet the needs of all learners, particularly English learners. Her grant will help cover graduate coursework through the University of Massachusetts Global as she pursues specialized TESOL training focused on Writing Across the Disciplines. MaliaLee aims to improve writing instruction and ensure English learners have equitable opportunities to succeed across all subjects. She looks forward to sharing her new knowledge with colleagues through professional learning communities, school leadership teams, and mentoring opportunities to strengthen instruction throughout the Moloka‘i school community.
2026-27 Ronald K. Toma Professional Learning Scholarship
Stephanie Keseday
Maui Waena Intermediate School Stephanie Keseday is a special education teacher at Maui Waena Intermediate School who is dedicated to helping diverse learners succeed through engaging, accessible science instruction. She holds a bachelor of science degree in special education from Miami University and a master of science in curriculum and instruction from Western Governors University. Her grant will help fund coursework at Idaho University as she works toward earning a middle school science certification, strengthening her knowledge of next generation science standards and inquiry-based learning. Stephanie is passionate about making complex scientific concepts meaningful and accessible for all learners, particularly students with disabilities. She looks forward to applying her new knowledge to create high-interest, inclusive science lessons that inspire curiosity and achievement in her classroom.
2026-27 Ronald K. Toma Professional Learning Scholarship
Arica Lynn
Lahainaluna High School Arica Lynn is a biology teacher at Lahainaluna High School who is pursuing professional learning through the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa's Sustainability and Resilience Education program. A dedicated educator since 2013, Arica is passionate about integrating place-based education, Indigenous knowledge, and sustainability into her science curriculum to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders. Her grant will help cover tuition for the yearlong program, equipping her with new knowledge in climate science, eco-literacies, and culturally grounded sustainability practices that she will bring back to her classroom and school community. Deeply rooted in the recovery and future of Lahaina, she hopes to help students reconnect with the region’s rich cultural and ecological history while exploring innovative solutions for community resilience and food sustainability. Through her studies, Arica plans to develop interdisciplinary lessons, collaborate with fellow educators, and empower students to help build a stronger, more sustainable future for Lahaina.
2026-27 Ronald K. Toma Professional Learning Scholarship
Joy Paul
Holualoa Elementary School Joy Paul is a dedicated third-grade teacher at Holualoa Elementary School who is passionate about helping all students become confident, successful readers. With more than a decade of teaching experience and a strong background in literacy instruction, Joy continually seeks opportunities to strengthen her practice and better serve students with diverse learning needs. Her grant will help fund the Institute for Multi-Sensory Education (IMSE) Dyslexia Specialist Practicum and certification exam, allowing her to earn a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist credential and expand her expertise in evidence-based reading instruction and interventions. Her work directly supports school goals focused on improving literacy achievement and ensuring students receive timely, effective support. Joy has already seen positive results through her practicum experience and is committed to applying these strategies to help more students overcome reading challenges. A leader within her school community, she also serves in several educator leadership roles and looks forward to sharing her knowledge with colleagues to strengthen literacy instruction and student outcomes across her school.
2026-27 Ronald K. Toma Professional Learning Scholarship
Mari Sato
Enchanted Lake Elementary School Mari Sato is an accomplished educator and instructional leader at Enchanted Lake Elementary School, where she has served students and colleagues for more than 25 years. A National Board Certified Teacher in Literacy and the school's Academic Coach, Mari is dedicated to advancing student achievement through evidence-based instruction, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative professional learning. She holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in education from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and has been a leader in district-level initiatives focused on literacy, mathematics, and instructional improvement. Her grant will help cover the fees required to maintain her National Board Certification, ensuring she continues to strengthen her expertise in literacy instruction, instructional coaching, and student-centered learning. Passionate about empowering both students and fellow educators, Mari remains committed to fostering excellence, innovation, and continuous growth within Hawaiʻi's public schools.
2025-26 Ronald K. Toma Professional Learning Scholarship
Nolan Yamaki
Ernest Bowen deSilva Elementary School Nolan Yamaki is a veteran educator at Ernest Bowen deSilva Elementary School in Hilo, where he has dedicated nearly two decades to teaching and supporting student achievement. With more than 25 years of experience in education and advanced degrees in elementary education and reading instruction from the University of Northern Colorado, Nolan is committed to continuously refining his craft to meet the evolving needs of students. His grant will help cover tuition, airfare, lodging, and transportation to attend the Hawaiʻi Writing Project's Advanced Invitational Summer Institute and Young Writers Camp, where he will strengthen his expertise in writing instruction. Recognizing writing is a key focus area for his school, Nolan is striving to help students develop the skills needed to communicate effectively and think critically. Beyond the classroom, he is an active community leader and mentor who looks forward to sharing new strategies and insights with fellow educators, helping to advance teaching and learning throughout his school community.
2026-27 Ronald K. Toma Professional Learning Scholarship
Rain Yong
Ka Waihona o ka Na'auao Public Charter School Rain Yong is dedicated to being a kumu kaiapuni (Hawaiian language immersion teacher) at Ka Waihona o ka Naʻauao and is committed to fostering academic success, cultural identity, and lifelong learning among her haumana (students). A graduate of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa with a background in Hawaiian language, Hawaiian studies, and Kaiapuni education, Rain has served students across multiple Hawaiian immersion schools and continues to be an active leader within the education community. Her grant will support conference registration, travel, lodging, and college coursework, allowing her to participate in professional learning opportunities such as ELEVATE Your Classroom, Get Your Teach On, and University of Hawai‘i courses that strengthen culturally grounded teaching practices and support for diverse learners. Guided by her school's mission and a deep commitment to the revitalization of ōlelo Hawaiʻi, Rain strives to build learning environments where students feel connected, confident, and empowered. She is passionate about sharing new knowledge with fellow educators and contributing to the collective growth of Hawaiʻi's educational community.
2026-27 Student Teacher Scholarship sponsored by the Helen MacKay Memorial
2026-27 Continuing College Scholarship
2026-27 Richard Keakahiwa/Wilhelmina Luna Scholarship
Chaeyoon Cho
University of Hawaii-West Oahu Chaeyoon Cho, an aspiring elementary educator at the University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu who is dedicated to creating inclusive classrooms where every child feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. Building on her background in psychology and early childhood education, Chaeyoon has gained extensive hands-on experience as a student teacher at Kalihi Waena Elementary School. Her scholarship will help cover tuition and other school-related expenses. When Chaeyoon moved to Hawai‘i as a child, she could not speak or understand English, but a teacher gave her confidence and made her feel capable. This inspired her to become a teacher. As a first-generation college student, Chaeyoon is passionate about supporting children and hopes to inspire confidence, belonging, and lifelong learning in every student.
2026-27 Student Teacher Scholarship sponsored by the Helen MacKay Memorial
Taylee Yamamoto
Kauai Community College
2026-27 Continuing College Scholarship
Carissa Miyamoto
Columbia University Carissa Miyamoto is a music teacher at Mililani ʻIke Elementary School who is dedicated to creating meaningful, high-quality music experiences for Hawaiʻi's students. A graduate of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa with a bachelor's degree in music education, Carissa continues to refine her teaching through advanced training in Orff, Kodály, Suzuki, and other music education methodologies while remaining an active performer and youth symphony conductor. Her scholarship will help offset the cost of pursuing a master of arts in music education through Columbia University's Teachers College, allowing her to bring new instructional strategies and innovative approaches back to her classroom. Passionate about lifelong learning, Carissa is committed to inspiring a love of music while ensuring every student has access to engaging, enriching, and joyful musical experiences.
2026-27 Carol H. Yoneshige in memory of Faith C. Ai
Erin Rodrigues
Grand Canyon University Erin Rodrigues, an educational assistant at Makawao Elementary School and pursuing a bachelor of science degree in elementary education at Grand Canyon University, with plans to become a licensed elementary teacher in Hawaiʻi. Her scholarship will help offset the cost of earning her teaching degree, allowing her to continue balancing college coursework while working full-time in the classroom. Erin has nearly a decade of experience supporting students and is dedicated to creating inclusive, supportive learning environments where every child feels valued and capable of success. Her passion for teaching is rooted in helping students build confidence in themselves and their abilities. Her goal is to serve Hawaiʻi’s children by fostering classrooms where all learners can thrive and reach their full potential.
2026-27 Graduating High School Seniors Scholarship
Sydnie Melemai
Daugher of HEA member Scott Melemai
Kalani High School Sydnie Melemai, graduated from Kalani High School this year, plans to use engineering and sustainability to create innovative solutions for Hawaiʻi’s future. As captain of her school’s FIRST Robotics Competition team, a leader in STEM outreach, and founder of programs that inspire younger students, Sydnie has combined technical expertise with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and community service. Her scholarship will help offset the cost of pursuing an engineering degree with a focus on sustainability, allowing her to continue developing technologies that address Hawaiʻi’s most pressing challenges, from renewable energy to food security. Guided by a strong sense of kuleana, Sydnie is committed to designing solutions that honor Hawaiʻi’s people, culture, and environment while inspiring the next generation of innovators.
2026-27 Graduating High School Seniors Scholarship
Micah Ynigues
Pearl City High School Micah Ynigues graduated from Pearl City High School and looks forward to pursuing a career in digital design and business. Through digital design coursework, college-level classes, and a graphic design internship with PD Technologies Hawaiʻi, Micah has developed creative and technical skills while building a portfolio that reflects his interest in branding, marketing, and visual communication. He will use his scholarship to attend the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where he plans to continue his studies in business or digital design while expanding his professional experience. A dedicated student leader and athlete, Micah has served as captain of his high school soccer and crosscountry teams and is committed to using design to help businesses and organizations connect with their communities in meaningful ways.
2026-27 Teaching As A Career (TAAC) Club/Education Pathway High School Seniors Scholarship, jointly sponsored by Pi Lambda Theta-Beta Zeta Hawaii Chapter
Layden Balisacan
James Campbell High School Layden Balisacan graduated from James Campbell High School, where he was an active member of the school’s Career and Technical Education Pathway, FCCLA, and Educators Rising. Passionate about working with children and advocating for student well-being, Layden has gained valuable hands-on experience through kindergarten internships, early college coursework, leadership projects, and community service. His scholarship will help offset the cost of pursuing a degree in education, allowing him to focus on preparing for a career as a teacher and returning to Hawaiʻi to serve future generations of students. Inspired by the impact educators have on students’ confidence and sense of belonging, Layden is committed to creating supportive, inclusive classrooms where every child feels heard, valued, and empowered to succeed.
2026-27 Teaching As A Career (TAAC) Club/Education Pathway High School Seniors Scholarship, jointly sponsored by Pi Lambda Theta-Beta Zeta Hawaii Chapter
Adora Cobb
Mililani High School Adora Cobb graduated from Mililani High School and participated in the Teaching as a Profession (TAAP) pathway. Her goal is to be a secondary English teacher. Over the past four years in the education pathway, she has gained valuable classroom experience through lesson planning, teaching, classroom observations, and mentoring students across elementary, middle, and high school settings. Her scholarship will help offset the cost of attending the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where she plans to pursue a degree in education with a focus on secondary English. Adora is committed to creating inclusive classrooms where every student feels they belong and enjoys learning. She looks forward to using her classroom experience and passion for education to inspire the next generation of students.