At ʻAha Kumu 2008, a professional development conference for HLIP teachers, discussion ensued around the need to clearly articulate the goals and philosophies that are common to all kaiapuni schools, without prescribing any one schools' approach to Hawaiian language medium education. As a result, a work group was convened to revisit, update and redraft the Hawaiian Language Immersion Program Guide, which became the Foundational & Administrative Framework for Kaiapuni Education (FAFKE).
Guiding philosophies
Vision Statement: He oia mau nō ka pono o ka lāhui kanaka i ka naʻauao Hawaiʻi.
Based on a quote from Joseph Mokuohai Poepoe, a highly revered Hawaiian scholar, the vision statement above has many meanings, therefore the writers of the program guide chose not to translate it. The important thing to understand is that the vision strives for a state in which all people can benefit from Hawaiian education.
Ka Papahana Kaiapuni mission is to provide a culturally rich and dynamic learning environment, perpetuating excellence through Hawaiian language, culture, and history, empowering students to self-determine community and familial stewardship.
Our mission statement is constructed to create space for different visions of success. Success does not need to be determined by money or status, it is determined by the student himself/herself, and through fulfillment of ancestral responsibilities.
The following priorities show guidelines for decision-making surrounding kaiapuni education.
Strategic priorities
- Place the Hawaiian language, culture and knowledge at the center of Ka Papahana Kaiapuni education, administration and operation
- Include all stakeholders and community supporters as active, collaborate participants in educational, administrative and operational decision-making.
- Direct all educational resources to meet Ka Papahana Kaiapuni vision.
- Improve KPK content, curriculum and instruction through informed, research-based practices using qualitative and/or quantitative data.
- Increase the responsiveness of the Department of Education and all stakeholders to provide relevant administrative and operational supports to maximize student learning.
Kaiapuni lens
The kaiapuni lens is a virtual lens through which the kaiapuni community views the world. This lens is developed through the elements of the outer circle in the figure at right. The result of a successful incorporation of the outer circle elements in Hawaiian language immersion education is a well-grounded inner circle. It means a deeper understanding and relationship to ʻike kūpuna and oneself.
