By Shelli Kim, KS Preschools Poʻo Kula (Head of School)
One hundred and forty years ago, Ke Aliʻi Bernice Pauahi Pākī Bishop envisioned a future where her people would thrive, guided by education. Through her legacy, Kamehameha Schools (KS) was established, creating a foundation for nurturing ʻŌiwi leaders who would carry forward the values and wisdom of our kūpuna. Today, that vision lives on at Kamehameha Schools Preschools (KS Preschools), where at the tender age of three, keiki begin their journey of discovery, growth, and cultural connection.
Enrolling your child in preschool is one of the most impactful decisions you can make to support their growth and future success. During these formative years, a child’s brain absorbs knowledge and develops essential skills at an extraordinary pace. KS Preschools caters to our littlest learners by providing nurturing environments in 30 locations across the pae ʻāina where keiki build a strong academic and cultural foundation.
E Ola! Thrives at KS Preschools
KS Preschools are guided by the E Ola! learning outcomes, which foster the development of well-rounded ʻŌiwi leaders. These outcomes emphasize ʻike kūpuna (ancestral knowledge), pilina (relationships), and ʻike kūʻokoʻā (independent thinking). By integrating Hawaiian values and culture, keiki develop kuleana and aloha ʻāina (love for the land), preparing them to thrive in an ever-changing world.
“The intentional foundation of Hawaiian culture helps keiki develop a strong sense of ʻŌiwi identity and pride,” said Waiʻaleʻale Arroyo, KS vice president of Hiʻialo. “They learn not only who they are, but also their kuleana to community and ʻāina, preparing them to be the next generation of ʻŌiwi leaders.”
At KS Preschools, keiki experience indoor and outdoor learning connected to culture, use technology as a learning tool, and are deeply grounded in Hawaiian identity and Christian values.
A Strong Cultural Foundation
At KS Preschools, Hawaiian culture is the foundation for teaching key academic readiness skills, such as reading, writing, counting, and observing. For example, keiki learn math concepts through activities in the māla (garden), measuring growth and understanding cycles of life, all while deepening their connection to ʻāina. This ensures that keiki are not only academically prepared but also grounded in their cultural identity as they transition to kindergarten.
Every day, kumu create an environment centered around our core values of aloha, mālama, and kuleana, nurturing kupuohi (thriving growth) in each keiki. As both educators and innovators, kumu play a vital role in shaping the learning experience, blending traditional Hawaiian practices with modern teaching methods to inspire and engage each keiki.
From the moment keiki step into the classroom, they are immersed in a space that honors and perpetuates the language, values, and practices of their kūpuna.
Caring for the Whole Child
The KS preschools’ world-class Hawaiian culture-based educational experience includes teaching academic concepts as well as addressing the social, emotional, and physical wellbeing of each keiki. Safe and supportive relationships with kumu and peers build confidence and resilience. Hawaiian values like mālama are woven into daily life, encouraging keiki to care for themselves, others, and their surroundings.
Partnering with ʻOhana
Mākua (parents) are every keiki’s first teacher. When that keiki comes to a KS preschool, it becomes a partnership between school and ʻohana to ensure success. Families are actively engaged in their keiki’s learning journey through regular communication and opportunities to participate in classroom activities. By partnering with ʻohana, KS preschools strengthen the bond between home and school, creating a lasting support system for keiki.
Throughout the school year, KS preschools host ʻohana activities at kula and in the community. For example, Nānākuli Preschool joined a local community celebration of Lā Kūʻokoʻa (Hawaiian Independence Day) and invited ʻohana to participate in a day of community engagement and cultural learning. We have also had ʻohana share their expertise at kula and at their farm for a loʻi project. Such events deepen ʻohana and keiki connections to Hawaiian history and strengthen the bond between home, school, and community.
ʻOhana Day is a cherished tradition, where families come together to engage in their keiki’s learning environment. While Lā Kūpuna provides an opportunity for grandparents to share special time with moʻopuna, bridging generations and reinforcing the value of intergenerational learning.
“We have thoroughly enjoyed our two years at Kamehameha Preschool. Our keiki’s kumu have been such a blessing to our ʻohana and we are forever grateful to them. They did an excellent job of preparing our daughter for kindergarten while also incorporating culturally based learning, as well as doing an amazing job of caring for their social and emotional development.” – KS Preschools ʻohana survey
“I love the focus on Hawaiian culture and use of Hawaiian language, how respectful and supportive their kumu are, the connection to place, development of kuleana and opportunities to develop a connection to environment and community. ” – KS Preschools ʻohana survey
Enrollment Open Now till Jan. 31
If you are seeking an educational experience that nurtures your keiki’s mind, body, and spirit while grounding them in the traditions of our kūpuna, KS Preschools invites you to apply at ksbe.edu/preschools by Jan. 31, 2025.
Kamehameha Schools gives preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry to the extent permitted by law. This policy reflects our commitment to Ke Aliʻi Pauahi’s vision of creating educational opportunities for her people.
