Papa ‘Ekolu went on a huaka’i today to observe different goods and services being sold at our Hilo Farmers’ Market. In addition, the students practiced being smart consumers as they purchased items for a tasting party/pilina building activity that was held back at school in the afternoon. The haumana learned that you can make your money stretch a long way if you think and make smart decisions based on costs and benefits.

Mahalo parents for joining us on this fun and educational trip to downtown Hilo!

Yesterday Papa ‘Ekolu haumana participated in a simulation for their Social Studies unit on homelessness. Students were placed into different ‘ohana and situations. They were faced with the challenge of making decisions and choices on shelter, daily necessities and food packages for their family. Each ‘ohana had a limited budget to work with.

This simulation taught the students that choices/decisions they make affect their lives and that the expenses for living are quite high. They learned that it is important to be responsible citizens and to spend their money wisely, or else they may find themselves homeless or at-risk for being homeless.

Santa’s Elves from 3A and 3B went on a trip to Target this week to shop for a Big Island family in need.  Each group of four students had a task to accomplish…  Buy all the items on their shopping list with the budget that was given to them.  Using the skills taught in math, students made estimations to make decisions on what to buy and how much to buy.  A myriad of goods were bought, including items such as a toaster oven, crock pot, vacuum cleaner and many other household goods.  Of course we couldn’t forget the kids in the family, so the children shopped for toys and clothes as well.  What a wonderful way to spread Christmas joy to a family that lost their home due to a fire two months ago!  Our keiki gave generously and worked hard to get the basic necessities for their “adopted” family.  They truly know how to live and show aloha!