Uncle Sonny Keakealani (Photo courtesy of Julia Cumes)

MEDIA RELEASE

“Time is of the essence” is a phrase most have heard before and can be applicable in many contexts. Waimea Middle School’s (WMS) Ike Hawaii Program, in partnership with Paniolo Preservation Society (PPS) and the Waimea Education Hui, will feature three classes in the month of September that take that phrase to heart.

Kupuna, paniolo and founding member of PPS, Sonny Keakealani, will share the vast knowledge he holds of Hawaiian terms used by the paniolo reflecting his connection from the mountain to the sea.

Topics will highlight hua olelo, or words and phrases, used to describe storied places, place names, lifestyle and traditions.

Each class will be opened with hai moolelo (stories) tied to Waimea, shared by Kuulei Keakealani. The art of storytelling is a gift and skill instilled in Kuulei by her kupuna.

Those who participate in this class will be asked to make a personal commitment to utilize the Hawaiian terms shared at each class so the ike (knowledge) of today will continue tomorrow…and beyond.

Classes are 4-5:15 p.m. Sept. 4, Sept. 11 and Sept. 25 at Waimea’s historic Pukalani Stables.

For further information or to register, contact Pua Case at pua_case@notes.k12.hi.us or call 938-5550.

WMS’ Ike Hawaii program works closely with core curriculum teachers to provide place-based lessons focused on rigor, relevance and relationships that connect culture to curriculum and tradition to technology.

PPS’ mission is to preserve and perpetuate Hawaii’s unique ranching heritage, practices and traditions. This includes sharing all aspects with present and future generations through educational events and activities as well as honoring those who continue to “live” the paniolo life.

Waimea Education Hui is an informal network of mostly Waimea-North Hawaii schools – public, public charter and private – as well as community organizations and individuals that have joined together to create and share culturally relevant lessons and experiences that nurture a “sense of place and identity” for the next generation to arm them with the skills, values and cultural understanding to become thoughtful leaders and stewards of the land and Hawaii’s natural resources in years to come.