Pilina Lepo Momona

• This summer, 22 educators from across Hawaiʻi Island embarked on Pilina Lepo Momona, a new professional development course exploring the deep connections between healthy soils, thriving communities, and place-based education. Representing grade levels from pre-kindergarten through high school and disciplines ranging from Hawaiian studies to STEAM, participants traveled together on huakaʻi to Nāmoku in Hāmākua, Ulu Mau Puanui in Kohala, Laupaʻi Ke Ola in Kona, and Mahina Ōhāhā in Puna.

  At each site, farmers and practitioners shared how both traditional and introduced agricultural practices are helping restore soil health after decades of degradation, demonstrating that fertile soils are the foundation of abundant food systems and resilient communities. Through these experiences, educators built relationships with one another, deepened their understanding of ʻike Hawaiʻi, and explored how local stories and landscapes can enrich classroom learning.

  With the huakaʻi now complete, participants are turning inspiration into action by designing or adapting lessons that center ʻike Hawaiʻi while aligning with Hawaiʻi Department of Education content standards. Each lesson will connect students to the science, history, culture, and stewardship of the living soils beneath their feet, helping young people understand that caring for ʻāina begins with understanding the systems that sustain it.

  By weaving these place-based perspectives into classrooms across the island, teachers are cultivating meaningful learning experiences that are as relevant as they are rigorous. We look forward to seeing these lessons take root and inspire the next generation to care for Hawaiʻi's soils—and the communities they nourish.