Kaua’i resident Taylee Yamamoto said she has always felt called to be a teacher. Throughout her life, she has been inspired by teachers who made learning feel meaningful, encouraging, and fun. Their impact showed her the powerful influence of a good teacher, and this inspired her to be that same kind teacher.

She has always taken her calling very seriously. “I have discovered a lot of joy working with keiki through my volunteer experience as an assistant kids coach at my local CrossFit gym, which has helped me build patience, confidence, and a stronger connection with children,” Taylee said.

After attending Kaua’i Community College and completing her student teaching at Kekaha Elementary School, she is now pursuing a degree in elementary education at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, with support from an HEA Student Teacher scholarship.

“I want to help create a classroom where students feel supported, capable, and excited to learn,” Taylee wrote in her scholarship application. “I hope to contribute to the teaching profession by being a caring, dedicated, and encouraging teacher who helps students grow both academically and personally.”