Erin Takamura-Luu
- Island: Oahu
- Class: First Grade Gen Ed teacher
- Years of Teaching: 17
- Field/Office: Red Hill Elementary
- Complex Area: ʻAiea-Moanalua-Radford
- Home Town: Mililani, Hawaii
- District: Central
What do you think is the Hawaii Department of Education’s greatest strength?
I think a core strength of the Hawaiʻi Department of Education is its emphasis on Nā Hopena Aʻo (HĀ). By centering Hawaiian culture and values, these learner outcomes help all students develop essential social, emotional, and cultural skills, shaping them into well-rounded individuals.
What do you think is the greatest strength about the complex area that you work in? What is your complex area known for?
The ‘Aiea, Moanalua, Radford Complex Area’s greatest strength is its deep connection to the military community. This unique relationship fosters rich cultural diversity within our schools, as the high transience of military families brings a continuous influx of new perspectives and backgrounds into our complex.
What makes your particular school or office special or distinctive?
At Red Hill Elementary School our mission is “To provide the guidance and instruction which will enable students to reach their maximum potential, empowering them to meet the challenges in our ever-changing society.” We try to bring the “Disney” feel to our school by creating “a happy place” where students can learn because if students and staff are happy then meaningful learning can occur .
What are two main challenges you face or teachers in general face as a educator in Hawaii?
The two main challenges teachers can generally face as an educator in Hawaii is the high cost of living and teacher burnout.
What are the qualities that make a Hawaii State Department of Education teacher successful?
A successful HIDOE teacher is a dedicated community member who understands that learning extends beyond the classroom. It’s about “”melting the walls”” and continuously growing as a professional, while building relationships with everyone you meet. This commitment and a spirit of aloha are what will sustain your passion for teaching.
What words would you use to describe your students?
They are my “little heroes” since most of my students are military children they show a lot of resilience. They adapt to a new environment and always continue to grow. They embrace the “Choose Love Motto” that we follow at our school which is: Courage, Forgiveness, Gratitude and Compassion in Action .
What is unique and/or special about the school you work at? What do you enjoy most about teaching there?
What’s special about my school is the incredible sense of community. The Disney mural at our entrance sets the tone—this truly is a “happy place.” It’s a positive environment where you can feel the aloha from everyone. I love seeing the staff embrace our themed dress-up days and grade-level themes, which shows our shared commitment to creating a fun and supportive atmosphere where everyone can succeed. I also enjoy our constant drive as a school to improve and connect with others. We make a point to partner with organizations like Project Search, which provides valuable experience for young adults with disabilities. It’s our school’s combination of positive school culture and community outreach that makes me proud to teach at Red Hill Elementary!
What are some fun activities that individuals enjoy doing outside school hours within the COMPLEX AREA that you represent?
Some of the fun activities that individuals enjoy doing outside of school hours are staff get togethers for hiking adventures, we try to eat at restaurants, have barbecues, beach days, and camping.
What are some fun activities that individuals enjoy doing outside school hours on the ISLAND that you work at?
Some fun activities that individuals enjoy doing outside of school hours on the Island are hiking, going to the beach, camping, surfing, driving around the island, eating at favorite local eateries, and watching Friday fireworks.
What do you enjoy most about the students you teach in Hawaii?
I enjoy the cultural diversity. We are a melting pot of different backgrounds, which enriches the learning experience for everyone.
What do YOU enjoy doing in your free time while in Hawaii?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, planning theme get-togethers , and thinking of engaging lessons for my students.
What’s YOUR favorite local food on your island? How would you describe the food?
My favorite local food on the island is a poke bowl. It’s truly Onolicious—a perfect taste of Aloha and Hawaiʻi in every bite!
What’s your favorite place to eat on your island? What kind of food is it?
My favorite place to eat is wherever I can get a good bowl of Pho. It’s my go-to meal, and I love that it’s a Vietnamese noodle soup that feels almost perfectly balanced which is not too heavy, and not too light. It’s a complete meal with something from almost all the food groups.
What are some housing tips that you could recommend for teachers relocating to Hawaii?
For teachers relocating to Hawaiʻi, the most crucial housing tips are to consider the high cost of living and the importance of location. I also recommend connecting with your future colleagues, as their personal experience with the commute can provide the best guidance.
What advice would you give to a new teacher who wants to work in your complex for the Hawaii DOE in general?
My advice to a new teacher in the Aiea, Moanalua, and Radford (AMR) complex is to fully embrace the military-connected community. Understanding the high transience of military families is key, as students may enroll and withdraw at any time during the school year. I recommend having a new student folder ready to go, and to be mindful of the incredible resilience these students possess. These “little heroes” face unique challenges, such as parent deployments. By being empathetic and patient, you can ensure that your classroom is a safe and welcoming space where they always feel a sense of aloha and belonging.