$3 million donation supports teacher-led projects

#PublicSchoolProud

• Despite the many challenges brought on by the pandemic, so many of my colleagues in the Department operated outside of their comfort zones, rallied to learn new methods and technology, and supported each other, students and parents throughout this journey. My son’s teachers and administrators created a positive experience and developed relationships both online and inperson. Everyone worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the students' experience as awesome and safe as possible. I am #PublicSchoolProud of my colleagues and extend my deepest appreciation and gratitude to all teachers, administrators and staff for their dedication, resiliency and heart.

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  »Jade Takehiro is a budget specialist in the Office of Fiscal Services. Jade is also a Hilo High School alumni and parent of an eighth grader at Niu Valley Middle School.

   

• Both my children attend Waikīkī Elementary and we couldn't be happier. The school leadership and staff handled COVID remarkably, and my kids remained engaged throughout distance learning last school year because their teachers worked as a team, were simply marvelous educators, and communicated with us families so well. I can't say enough about what the great communication meant to us — the teachers reached out, made themselves available, and talked to us like true partners. It allowed us to see what an excellent school it is. I am honored to be able to support our schools from the State Office level. We are definitely #PublicSchoolProud.

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»Wimmie Wong Lui is a budget specialist with the Office of Fiscal Services, and a grateful parent of two children who attend Waikīkī Elementary.