Whether you’re interested in learning more about teaching in Hawai`i, have questions about our districts and schools, are wondering about island living, or would like help as you navigate the application process, HIDOE’s Ambassadors are here to offer you their wealth of knowledge, resources and support.
Luke Kahawai
- Island: Kauai
- District: Kauai
- Position: Physical Education (PE)
Kauai is a small community and it's that family atmosphere that makes working on Kauai so great.
CJ Ancheta
- Island: Maui
- District: Maui
- Position: Math Teacher
The students are unique being that they come from diverse ethnic and language groups. I enjoy getting to know them by learning more about their cultural traditions, language, and values.
Monica Weida
- Island: Oahu
- District: Leeward
- Position: Third Grade
My students have the biggest hearts. They root for each other through all they do. I have taught in other states and Hawaii's students are the best!!
Jerico Jaramillo
- Island: Lanai
- District: Maui
- Position: English Teacher
Lanai is characterized by a tranquil pace, a harmonious blend of cultural richness, and a deep connection with nature. The island’s small population fosters a strong sense of community where aloha spirit thrives.
Rosey-Maruko Asher
- Island: Oahu
- District: Leeward
- Position: Elementary Teacher
The Hawaii Department of Education’s greatest strength is the people within
Jen Evans
- Island: Oahu
- District: Honolulu
- Position: 3rd Grade
I enjoy that these young students have such caring hearts. My students have all found ways to give back to the community in unique ways.
Brad Kusunoki
- Island: Oahu
- District: Central
- Position: School Counselor
Diversity, every student is different in many ways and each brings a different perspective to the school.
Clint Labrador
- Island: Molokai
- District: Maui
- Position: 5th and 6th grade Special Education Teacher
I think the Hawaii Dept. of Education's greatest strength is the sense of Aloha.
Jennifer Rikert
- Island: Maui
- District: Maui
- Position: Full Release Special Education Mentor and Autism Team RT
The autonomy that each school has is empowering and it brings an individual culture to each school.
Amy Pankowski
- Island: Hawai‘i
- District: Hawai‘i
- Position: 3rd Grade Special Education/Inclusion
Our biggest strength is our resilience and helping nature. We are known for the Lava.
Kristal Blacksmith
- Island: Hawai‘i
- District: Hawai‘i
- Position: Middle School Science
Our school is known to be small and personalized, we make sure our students get what they need.
Adrean Floro
- Island: Hawai‘i
- District: Hawai‘i
- Position: Student Services Coordinator & RTI Lead
The greatest strength of the HIDOE is the awareness of the Hawaiian culture and acceptance of diversity.