School: Nānāikapono Elementary School
Grade Level: Grades 5-6
Teacher: Bryson Matsushima and Keala Nunuha
Driving Question: How do we, as leaders, educate and encourage others in our community, so that we can inspire active and healthy lifestyles?
What did the students DO?
The Living Pono PALS group at Nānāikapono Elementary School has flourished this quarter through activities that build physical endurance, coordination, sportsmanship, and kuleana (responsibility) for one’s own health. Students explored different forms of exercise, researched a sport of their choice, and practiced sharing that knowledge with others—all grounded in a commitment to mālama kino (caring for the body) and laulima (working together). With high energy and enthusiasm, the group also enjoyed time outdoors, collaborated with other PALS groups, and actively participated in community health events.
- Skill Development: Students engaged in drills and fitness routines each PALS day, focusing on agility, strength, coordination, and confidence-building. These daily activities laid the foundation for stronger bodies and minds.
- Research Projects: Each haumāna selected a sport—ranging from Zumba to baseball—to research and present to the group. This peer-led learning fostered leadership and public speaking skills while honoring the value of kaʻana ʻike (sharing knowledge).
- Community Engagement: Living Pono partnered with the Girls Club for weekly huakaʻi (excursions) to run in the community, reinforcing connections to ʻāina while promoting physical endurance. These Thursday runs created space for reflection, breath, and movement outdoors.
- Health Education: Regular conversations about healthy eating introduced terms like ʻai pono and emphasized the importance of balanced meals, hydration, and sleep. Students shared what they learned with their ʻohana, strengthening the home-school connection.
- Event Participation: The group proudly joined the Keiki Great Aloha Run and the Rainbow Run, with students and their families participating together. These events celebrated wellness and reminded students that they are part of a wider, active community.
The Living Pono group has cultivated a culture of health, resilience, and shared learning. Students took ownership of their wellness journeys, expanded their understanding of various sports, and inspired one another to stay active and eat well. Through collaboration and real-world applications—like running events and research presentations—they developed essential life skills rooted in aloha, kuleana, and lokahi (unity). These experiences help them build healthy habits and strong relationships, ensuring that the value of living pono extends beyond the program and into their homes and futures.
