Kalihi Uka Elementary School’s kindergarten teacher Kristy Inamasu received the 2024–25 Milken Educator Award in January 2025. The honor, often called the “Oscar of teaching,” includes a $25,000 unrestricted cash prize. Inamasu was the only Hawaii recipient that academic year, making the recognition especially significant for the school community.

Q1. How does Kalihi Uka help students learn about their own safety limits?

Ans. Safety lessons show students how to tell the difference between safe and unsafe situations and how to ask trusted adults at school for help.

Q2. How does the school help students learn how to organize their notes early on?

Ans. Teachers show students how to use simple headings and spacing to make sure their notes are clear and easy to review.

Q3. What routines help students keep the shared seating areas in the classroom in order?

Ans. Students learn how to set up chairs, keep walkways clear, and put chairs back in place after group activities.

Q4. How does Kalihi Uka start the conversation about how different people live in the community?

Ans. Lessons help students learn about and respect the differences in their school community by getting them to share their traditions and experiences.

Q5. How does the school help students get ready for tests by getting their materials ready?

Ans. Teachers go over checklists with students so they know how to get their desks, papers, and pencils ready for testing.