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Stories About Hawaii Educators

Watch and read stories about the life-changing impact of local teachers and professors.

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#MyAwesomeTeacher

Our teachers are great sources of encouragement, inspiration, and positive life transformations. Many of us have had a teacher who made a major impact on our lives or helped us to simply do better.

Here, HEA showcases testimonials about amazing teachers to highlight the importance of our local educators. These stories were collected and featured throughout our website, newsletter, and social media in 2021 as part of our 100th anniversary celebration.

Community Testimonials

We are honored to share these memories from our community about the impact of Hawaii educators on their students’ lives.

“Mrs. Bertha Shinagawa at Waimea Canyon Elementary school was gracious about my mistakes and taught me grace and forgiveness . That lesson impacted me and the way I teach my students.”

Eve (Nishikawa) Guzman

In honor of Mrs. Bertha Shinagawa

Waimea Canyon Elementary School

“At Leeward Community College, Dr. Christina Keaulana always helped me in any way, shape or form. If it wasn’t for her, I probably would not have wanted to become the special educator I am today.”

Kellie Ann Padello

In honor of Dr. Christina Keaulana

Leeward Community College

“Mrs. Rachel Day Henke made U.S. history at Roosevelt High School interesting, fun and come alive for me. Her class started me on the path to becoming a social studies teacher!”

George Butterfield

In honor of Mrs. Rachel Day Henke

Roosevelt High School

“Mr. Burton Tomita at St. Louis School first introduced me to the fundamentals of computer science, sparking my passion and leading me to pursue my current career.”

Les Kwock

In honor of Mr. Burton Tomita

St. Louis School