In our study of Hilo we read the mo`olelo of how Hilo got its name.  We learned how hilo means to twist and that using the Ti-leaf was a way to twist.  We were so fortunate to have `Anakala Kawika and Ka`imi from our groundskeeping division come into the classroom and share their `ike on the ti-leaf plant.  They showed us how to målama the plant, pick it and even propagate it.  We concluded our lesson by working in pairs and practiced “hilo-ing” the leaves.  It was such a great afternoon.  Mahalo nui e Uncle Kawika and Uncle Ka`imi.

Yes!!!!  We were overjoyed today!!  We were visited by our1:1 iPad project team:  Ms. Richardson, Ms. Cordeiro, Uncle Kyle, Mrs. Iaea-Honda, and our new Technology teacher, Ms. Galang.  They rolled out and gave us our iPads today.  We began with some basic review of expectations.  In addition, we had to play and explore new and old apps.  In first grade we definitely use the iPad on multiple levels.  Here is to new learning, sharing and thinking for all of us!!!

In the writing process, the exciting time comes when we are able to share our published piece.  The Author’s Chair provides our keiki an opportunity to take pride in their writing and to share what they have written.  The goal is to get keiki to feel comfortable with the thoughts that they have put on paper.  Here are a few photos of haumåna that have been to the Author’s Chair.

I hope that everyone had a nice long Labor Day Weekend!  Mahalo nui to all the `ohana that were able to attend our Open House last week Thursday. The turn-out was greatly appreciated.  We were able to go over our first grade curriculum and expectations, have conversations and explore our keikis classroom.  But most importantly we got to begin creating positive pilina with one another.  For those who were unable to attend and may have some questions, please contact me and I will be more than happy to have a conversation with you.  Have a great week.  BTW- the keiki love their messages you wrote them and the video we created.

As part of instilling pride, kuleana and work ethics, every Friday (or last school day of the week) our keiki do a general clean up of our lumi papa.  We spend about 10 minutes wiping down our tables, cleaning out and organizing our desks and toolboxes, taking our plants outside, straightening up our bookshelves and math toys, and making sure our `ohana area is looking good. Hope everyone had a great weekend!!!

Our keiki have been learning the oli/mele, E Ala E.  It talks about how we will awake and rise, we will work hard, go deep and reach for the highest.  Click the video to listen to our keiki.

Keiki explore our Math centers.  In first grade we continue to value the time that young children can learn through play.  Following large and small group instruction children will have independent work.  In addition, math centers will be part of our daily math time.

Our papa 1 is represented by the mea kanu `uala.  Here our keiki share their mana`o and connection to the sweet potato.  Click on the picture to see what they have shared.

Please welcome Kumu Wai to Papa 1B.  As a grade level we will be working together  to holomua (move forward) and guide your keiki to new learning, growth and experiences.  Please click on the photo below to read more about our new Kumu.  I am very excited to have her as my new teaching partner.