Emily Mendoza
- Island: Oahu
- District: Central
- Class: Culinary Arts Teacher
- Years of Teaching: 8 years (4 years Substitute, 4 years Teacher)
- Field/Office: ʻAiea High School
- Complex Area: ʻAiea-Moanalua-Radford (AMR)
- Home Town: Rio Rancho, NM
What do you love about teaching in Hawaiʻi?
What I love the most about teaching in Hawaii are the students. Connecting with them and building relationships and seeing them grow and graduate is very fulfilling for me. I also love the professional connections that I have been able to make over the past 8 years! Some of the people I have met and worked with have helped me become the teacher that I am today!
What do you value as a strength of the Hawaiʻi Department of Education?
The Hawaii DOE is truly committed to the holistic growth of Hawaii’s keiki. By that I believe that the DOE understands the challenges that we face and is openminded and willing to try new avenues and strategies for the benefit of our children. This very event is proof that the DOE truly cares and wants to grow and build an even stronger educational platform.
What do you value as a strength of your particular school or office? What is your complex area known for?
Aiea’s biggest strength is the growth mindset that the administration and a large population of the teachers and leaders have. Aiea has transitioned into an academy school in the last 5 years and AHS follows the National Career Academy Coaltion model. This transition was not easy however the administrations ability to get the teacher populations “buy in,” helped the transition and will hopefully help the long term success of students graduating from Aiea.
What is unique/special about your school and/or community? What do you enjoy most about teaching there?
Aiea High has a unique location that was once a sugar cane plantation. Aiea is the only school in our complex that is an Academy school. The alumni and community engagement of Aiea is what really makes us unique as the Na Ali’i pride continues on and is consistently praised and celebrated in the Aiea Community.
What are 2 main challenges you face (or you feel teachers face) as an educator in Hawaiʻi?
One of my biggest personal challenges was starting as an emergency hire and working my way up to the highest pay reclassification. It was important for me to gather information and start the process so I could make my career in teaching more sustainable. Another challenge is working within the constraints of limited facility resources and budgets. Over time I have been able to adjust my curriculum to include manageable fundraising and more budget friendly lessons.
What are the qualities that make a Hawaiʻi Department of Education educator successful? Explain.
The qualities that make a Hawaii DOE educator successful to me are a clear sense of work life balance, time management skills and a growth mindset. I believe the conscious effort to leave work at work and home at home helps with continued engagement and focus. Time management skills are important because using your time wisely will help your planning and execution of student lessons. Lastly, having a growth mindset and being able to change and adapt and continue to grow as a teacher will not only make you a better teacher but also a leader in your school and community.
What words would you use to describe your students? Explain.
I would describe my students as having Aloha. Whether they would admit it or not, they are understanding, caring, empathetic and fun loving kiddos. As a teacher I openly express when I do something wrong and I truly believe that they appreciate my honesty. I have seen some of the toughest students show care and empathy in my class. Lastly, some of the most magical times in my classes have been when we are playing a game and having fun!
Free time: What are some fun activities that people can enjoy doing outside school hours on the island that you work at?
People like to spend time outdoors whether it be hiking, surfing, paddleboarding, fishing, etc. There are also nice shopping centers in Honolulu (Ala Moana Shopping Mall and International Marketplace)
Free time: What are some fun activities that you personally enjoy doing on the island or complex area/neighborhood you work in?
I like to spend time outdoors with my family. We make it to the beach on the west side of the island every Sunday. We also like to grill out at home and my children like to surf and play sports. During school breaks, my children and I explore different parts of the island (North shore, Waikiki, etc).
What’s your favorite local food on your island? -OR- Where’s your favorite place to eat on the island? Describe the food!
My family and I like to eat at STIX food hall in Waikiki. There is a small Vietnamese spot (towards the back) that my family will get the lemongrass chicken banh mi’s and I will get the vermicelli, oh and the shrimp and papaya salad is a must try. My daughter LOVES Nana’s green tea (Best Matcha on island according to her) in the same food hall.
What are some housing tips that you could recommend for teachers relocating to Hawaiʻi?
Do your research. Research pricing (rent, mortgage rates, tax rates), parking, water, electricity, internet, vehicle (Insurance, inspection, registration, gas), grocery prices and most importantly research the areas that you decide to live in (Crime, economic, demographic)
What advice would you give to a new teacher who wants to work in your complex area or for the Hawaiʻi DOE in general?
Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself first. Research the historical and cultural significance of this area and the people as it will help you better connect with the students an their families.