E kuhikuhi pono i na au iki a me na au nui o ka ʻike (In teaching, do it well: the small details are as important as the large ones) September 14, 2018

On September 14, 2018, ʻEleu’s Native Hawaiian Early Childhood Education Consortium Conference took place. ‘Eleu is a collective of five early childhood education agencies: ‘Aha Pūnana Leo, ALU LIKE, Inc., Institute for Native Pacific Education and Culture (INPEACE), Keiki O Ka ‘Āina Family Learning Centers (KOKA), and Partners In Development Foundation (PIDF). ‘Eleu believes by advocating together with one voice, they can ensure that the children and communities of Hawaiʻi will continue to flourish. The conference is a chance for INPEACE, KOKA, and PIDF to gather together to share their knowledge of education curriculum grounded in Native Hawaiian traditions.

Each organization conducted various breakout sessions that demonstrated their individual manaʻo (thoughts) and ʻike (knowledge) regarding various topics like cultural practices, advocacy, language and literacy, and STEAM. Although these organizations compete on many levels for funding, resources, and space, together they have a stronger unifying purpose: to serve Hawaiʻi’s keiki and families and prepare them for success.

In between the small roundtable sessions, PIDF’s own Danny Goya and Alex Santiago gave keynote addresses. Danny discussed Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and how ACEs affect brain development, health and wellness for the communities we serve, and how family engagement and culture are the keys to addressing this issue. Alex reviewed advocacy skills covered in the last consortium conference, and explained how legislative efforts are so vital in advocating for our keiki. He gave examples on how to engage caregivers and how to encourage them to become lifelong advocates.

A special mahalo to W.K. Kellogg Foundation for their support in making this conference possible!

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The W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF) was founded in 1930 as an independent, private foundation by breakfast cereal pioneer. Will Keith Kellogg, is among the largest philanthropic foundations in the United States. Guided by the belief that all children should have an equal opportunity to thrive. WKKF works with communities to create conditions for vulnerable children so they can realize their full potential in school, work, and life. The Kellogg Foundation is based in Battle Creek, Michigan, and works throughout the United States and internationally, as well as with sovereign tribes. Special emphasis is paid to priority places where there are high concentrations of poverty and where children face significant barriers to success.