Anti-Bullying Campaign Celebrates Anniversary

Department of Education photo.

Nā Wai Ola Public Charter School in Mountain View placed first in the elementary division of the statewide E Ola Pono campaign, an initiative that encourages youth to promote peace, pono and respect in their schools and communities. Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, the campaign was created as a cultural response to bullying in Hawai‘i’s schools.

Nā Wai Ola Public Charter School won for its māla (garden) program, which teaches students how to grow food, medicines and plants with aloha and respect.

“This campaign is an excellent example of showcasing student voice and leadership,” said Superintendent Christina Kishimoto. “Congratulations to the winning schools and all of the entrants who put a lot of thought and time into these projects that promote positivity within our schools and communities.”

A total of six schools received recognition and monetary awards for their campaigns. Winners are as follows:

Elementary Division

First Place: Nā Wai Ola Public Charter School, Mountain View, Hawai’i

Second Place: Aliʻiolani Elementary School, Honolulu, Oʻahu

Middle/Intermediate Division

First Place: Ewa Makai Middle School Ewa Beach, Oʻahu

Second Place: Kailua Intermediate, Kailua, Oʻahu

High School Division

First Place (tie): Farrington High School, Honolulu, Oʻahu

First Place (tie): Hāna High & Elementary School, Hāna, Maui

For more information about the E Ola Pono campaign and this year’s winners, visit www.growingponoschools.com.