Holualoa school celebrates community and mentorship on field day

Holualoa Elementary School offered a shining example of what’s right, as they hosted a spectacular Halloween Field Day that brought together students, teachers, parents, and community partners in a celebration of health, wellness, and mentorship. This event, made possible through the collaboration of the Holualoa PTO, Project No Ke Ola Pono O Na Keiki (program director Joel Matsunaga), and Konawaena High School student volunteers, showcased the power of community and the positive impact of mentorship. Konawaena students led activities such as the Skeleton Puzzle Relay, Candy Bar Relay, and Witches Brew, stepping into leadership roles that fostered fun, engagement, and cross-generational learning. Their mentorship enriched the experience for younger students, who beamed with excitement as they participated in the games. The field day also marked the official launch of the “Each One Teach One” initiative, led by Director of Secondary Programs for the project, Dan Curran. This program is designed to build meaningful mentorship connections between high school and elementary students, emphasizing Hawaiian values like ohana and kuleana. By leading activities, sharing their expertise, and serving as role models, high school students develop leadership and communication skills, while younger students benefit from positive role models and an active, healthy day of learning and play . Supporting these efforts was the recent acquisition of a project van, funded through a federal earmark grant secured with the help of Senators Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono. This essential resource enables Project No Ke Ola Pono O Na Keiki to continue organizing impactful events throughout the West Hawai’i Complex Area, reinforcing a network of community-focused education that benefits all involved. The success of the Holualoa Halloween Field Day is a testament to what can be achieved when schools, families, and communities come together. The Holualoa PTO, Project No Ke Ola Pono O NaKeiki, and the dedicated Konawaena High School students have set a powerful example, and their efforts promise an even brighter future for our keiki. Up next: a color run this spring that’s sure to keep the spirit of community and wellness thriving.