Susan Chew
- Island: Lanai
- Class: Kindergarten Teacher
- Years of Teaching: 27
- Field/Office: Lānaʻi High and Elementary School
- Complex Area: Hāna-Lahainaluna-Lānaʻi-Molokai
- Home Town: Lānaʻi City, HI
- District:
What do you love about teaching in Hawaiʻi?
Teaching in Hawaiʻi is a privilege that continually reminds me why I chose this profession. I love helping young children develop a strong sense of place by connecting their learning to the people, culture, and natural beauty that surround them each day. Watching my students grow into kind, curious learners who lead with aloha and care for their community is one of the greatest joys of teaching.
What do you value as a strength of the Hawaiʻi Department of Education?
One of the Hawaiʻi Department of Education’s greatest strengths is its commitment to educating the whole child. I value the emphasis on belonging, well-being, and meaningful learning experiences that honor each student’s identity, culture, and sense of place.
What do you value as a strength of your particular school or office? What is your complex area known for?
Lānaʻi High and Elementary School is a unique community where relationships are at the heart of everything we do. As part of the Hāna-Lahainaluna-Lānaʻi-Molokaʻi Complex Area, our school is known for its dedication to fostering a deep sense of belonging through our shared ʻohana values. Our complex area is recognized for nurturing resilience while grounding students in their identity, culture, and a profound sense of place and aloha.
What is unique/special about your school and/or community? What do you enjoy most about teaching there?
Teaching on Lānaʻi is a gift because our small island community offers a measured pace of life where relationships flourish. I love that learning extends beyond the classroom through meaningful connections with families and the community. The strong sense of belonging helps children grow with confidence, aloha, and a deep connection to their island home.
What are 2 main challenges you face (or you feel teachers face) as an educator in Hawaiʻi?
Two significant challenges educators face in Hawaiʻi are the high cost of living and limited resources, especially in rural communities. The cost of everyday necessities, such as groceries, is often higher due to shipping costs and island location. Schools may also experience delays and challenges accessing materials, supplies, and resources needed to support student learning.
What are the qualities that make a Hawaiʻi Department of Education educator successful? Explain.
Successful Hawaiʻi Department of Education educators are flexible, collaborative, and lead with aloha. They adapt to the diverse needs of their students, work closely with colleagues, families, and the community, and build strong, respectful relationships. Above all, they create safe, inclusive classrooms where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to learn and grow.
What words would you use to describe your students? Explain.
My students are loving, joyful, and eager to learn. They are willing to try new things, embrace challenges, and encourage one another with kindness and aloha. Their curiosity, resilience, and caring hearts make our classroom a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and excited to grow together.
Free time: What are some fun activities that people can enjoy doing outside school hours on the island that you work at?
On Lānaʻi, people enjoy spending time together by gathering, shopping, and dining around Dole Park, the heart of the community. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the island offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, diving, hunting, snorkeling, and beaches, all set against beautiful natural scenery.
Free time: What are some fun activities that you personally enjoy doing on the island or complex area/neighborhood you work in?
In my free time, I enjoy taking walks, visiting the library, eating out, and spending time at the beach. One of my favorite things about Lānaʻi is that it is peaceful and never feels crowded. I especially enjoy the pace of life, breathing in the clean, fresh air and taking in Lānaʻi’s quiet beauty.
What’s your favorite local food on your island? -OR- Where’s your favorite place to eat on the island? Describe the food!
One of my favorite places to eat on Lānaʻi is Blue Ginger Cafe. I especially enjoy their club sandwich, which is always fresh, hearty, and satisfying. I also love the flavorful Korean chicken from Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine. The Lānaʻi Service Station offers ʻono gourmet sandwiches with so many choices. For a special occasion, I love eating at one of the hotels for a premium experience.
What are some housing tips that you could recommend for teachers relocating to Hawaiʻi?
Relocating teachers should secure housing before moving, as arriving without a plan can quickly lead to housing insecurity. Hawaiʻi’s rental market is highly competitive, so it is important not to expect a rental to be available upon arrival. Arranging temporary lodging is a wise first step while you continue your search. Once you are on the island, building relationships with fellow teachers and school staff can be invaluable, as many affordable housing opportunities are shared through local word of mouth rather than public listings.
What advice would you give to a new teacher who wants to work in your complex area or for the Hawaiʻi DOE in general?
“Teaching on Lānaʻi requires thoughtful preparation for rural island living, as resources are limited and shipping can take several weeks. Fortunately, the community is incredibly welcoming, and fellow teachers are always willing to lend a helping hand. Embracing the island’s close-knit community and relying on the support and experience of your colleagues will help you thrive both personally and professionally. “