Whether you’re interested in learning more about teaching in Hawai`i, have questions about our districts and schools, are wondering about island living, or would like help as you navigate the application process, HIDOE’s Ambassadors are here to offer you their wealth of knowledge, resources and support.
Luke Kahawai
- Island: Kauai
- District: Kauai
- Position: Physical Education (PE)
Kauai is a small community and it's that family atmosphere that makes working on Kauai so great.
Tiffany Mattiaccio
- Island: Oahu
- District: Leeward
- Position: Third Grade Inclusion
The students in the Waianae-Nanakuli complex area possess incredible strength and perseverance. They love to formulate strong relationships with their teachers and support staff. There is a strong sense of classroom community that emulates a big family.
Monica Weida
- Island: Oahu
- District: Leeward
- Position: Third Grade
My students have the biggest hearts. They root for each other through all they do. I have taught in other states and Hawaii's students are the best!!
Lorna Baniaga-Lee
- Island: Oahu
- District: Leeward
- Position: English Teacher
From my experiences with Campbell-Kapolei Complex, they care about their teachers and their school.
Verona Holder
- Island: Oahu
- District: Central
- Position: 5th Grade General Education Teacher
My complex is known for their athletic programs and Advanced Placement courses.
Lydia Saffery
- Island: Oahu
- District: Leeward
- Position: 9th Grade English
The students here have a strong sense of community. They understand the importance of family and the need to help and seek support from others.
Jen Evans
- Island: Oahu
- District: Honolulu
- Position: 3rd Grade
I enjoy that these young students have such caring hearts. My students have all found ways to give back to the community in unique ways.
Brad Kusunoki
- Island: Oahu
- District: Central
- Position: School Counselor
Diversity, every student is different in many ways and each brings a different perspective to the school.
Clint Labrador
- Island: Molokai
- District: Maui
- Position: 5th and 6th grade Special Education Teacher
I think the Hawaii Dept. of Education's greatest strength is the sense of Aloha.
Michelle Fujie
- Island: Lanai
- District: Maui
- Position: High School Math Teacher
Aloha and Connectedness, we all share a passion and love of educating and provide opportunities for our students.
Jennifer Rikert
- Island: Maui
- District: Maui
- Position: Full Release Special Education Mentor and Autism Team RT
The autonomy that each school has is empowering and it brings an individual culture to each school.
Amy Pankowski
- Island: Hawai‘i
- District: Hawai‘i
- Position: 3rd Grade Special Education/Inclusion
Our biggest strength is our resilience and helping nature. We are known for the Lava.
Kristal Blacksmith
- Island: Hawai‘i
- District: Hawai‘i
- Position: Middle School Science
Our school is known to be small and personalized, we make sure our students get what they need.
Adrean Floro
- Island: Hawai‘i
- District: Hawai‘i
- Position: Student Services Coordinator & RTI Lead
The greatest strength of the HIDOE is the awareness of the Hawaiian culture and acceptance of diversity.