School: Nānāikapono Elementary School
Grade Level: Grades 3-6
Teacher: Bryson Matsushima and Alexis (Lexi) Prei
Driving Question: How do we, as lifelong learners, continue to live our lives to the best and healthiest of ways?
What did the students DO?
This energetic running group has embraced a healthy lifestyle by committing to regular stretching, exercise, and running during every PALS session. From one-mile timed runs to outdoor games like soccer, kickball, and relay races, haumāna (students) have been building endurance, strength, and teamwork. They have participated in community events such as the Nānākuli High and Intermediate School Turkey Run, the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Jingle Run, and the Keiki Great Aloha Run, while also designing and mapping out their very own school FUN Run route. Despite challenges with attendance, the group’s dedication to health and wellness remains strong.
- Consistent Training and Running: Haumāna run a one-mile route on campus during every PALS session, timing themselves and striving to beat their personal records. They also stretch and hydrate to maintain healthy running practices.
- Engaging Outdoor Activities: Alongside running, the group enjoys outdoor games such as kickball, flag football, soccer, and relay races, which help build stamina and promote teamwork.
- Community and School Event Participation: The group has proudly participated in the Nānākuli High and Intermediate School Turkey Run, the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Jingle Run, and the Keiki Great Aloha Run, showcasing their dedication to physical fitness and community engagement.
- FUN Run Planning and Preparation: Haumāna used a measuring wheel to map a one-mile route around their school campus for their own FUN Run event. Although the March date was canceled due to low participation, they plan to reschedule for May.
- Resilience Despite Challenges: Attendance has decreased to four committed haumāna due to other sports and home responsibilities, but the group continues to thrive with the encouragement and support of their kumu (teachers).
This running group demonstrates how physical wellness, commitment, and teamwork can strengthen both the body and the spirit. Through consistent training, participation in community events, and resilience in the face of challenges, these haumāna exemplify the values of perseverance, self-discipline, and aloha ʻāina (love and care for the land) for personal and collective health.
