Healthy Aloha Friday

Today the class got a real treat from Miss Carla, who came back from Greenhouse Hawaii to show us how to make a healthy native Hawaiian snack. The students made some delicious sweet potato or 'Uala from scratch (already cooked of course). First they skinned and peeled the sweet potatoes. Then they mashed them in a bowl, adding coconut milk and blue agave for some flavor. Once it was prepared they served each other and we all ate some delicious sweet potato together.

Paper Making

On Thursday, we met with Miss Carla from Greenhouse Hawaii and she showed us how to make paper. Using recycled paper, grey board, as well as the pounded plant mother in laws tongue, we were able to blend together a soup of liquid paper. We then screened, decorated, and pressed the paper onto our glass window and let it dry overnight. The end result turned out quite nicely.

Hanauma Bay

Yesterday we journeyed out to Hanauma bay to explore the nature preserve and all the colorful fish that fill the bay. The students learned how important the coral reef is to the ecosystem and how essential it is to take care of it. The rich history surrounding Hanauma bay was fascinating. The bus ride back was far less interesting.

Squid Dissection & Calamari

On Tuesday the students had a tasty treat while learning the insides and outs of a squid. They discovered that the body of the squid can be 3cm-16cm and rests above its head. After dissection, Chef Blaine fried up some Calamari for everyone to enjoy. Needless to say none of the squid went to waste.

Aquarium Adventure

On Monday the class made a trip to the Aquarium on Waikiki Beach. While there we studied the marine life in all the different habitats that surround the Hawaiian waters. We also had an opportunity to observe and draw live coral reefs and distinguish invertebrates from vertebrates. The highlight of the day was watching the Hawaiian Monk seals play in there pool pens.

Papahana Kuaola

On Friday, we had a truly unique experience when we traveled to the back of Haiku Valley in Kaneohe. Uncle Mahi guided us through the Native Hawaiian plant and Lo'i farm. While exploring the stream life we were able to catch guppies and other fish. Then we were able to drink fresh spring water from a spring that Punahou's own, Kumu Ian Masterson, found back in 2006 when the restoration project first started. After getting muddy in the Lo'i we got to take a dip in the icy Haiku stream and wash off beneath the waterfalls. Overall it was a great Aloha Friday.

Recap of Week #3 & Reminders

Recap of Week #3
Mon., July 2: Kualoa Beach Park- We were so fortunate to have had an amazing opportunity to go on board the Hokulea. We got to meet 2 of the crewmembers for the upcoming voyage next year. They gave us a tour of the canoe and shared exciting stories about their upcoming voyage. We also had a chance to do canoe sailing and canoe paddling. It was a wonderful opportunity to experience these awesome vessels!

Tues., July 3: Heeia Fishpond- This was another exciting day on the ocean. We learned about how the fishpond was used long ago and what Paepae O Heeia is doing to help restore the fishpond. We felt so privileged to have been able to help them move coral that is being used to repair the sea wall. We experienced the concept of "Laulima" which means cooperation and working together.

Thurs., July 5: Native Hawaiian plant study and Rocky Hill hike. The students are doing research on Native Hawaiian and Canoe plants. We will be sharing our information and giving away seeds at the "Summer for the Aina" fair. The fair will be held this Thurs., July 12 at Bishop from 8:30-2:00 There will be displays of student work related to sustainability..

Fri., July 6: Papahana Kuaola- We ventured deep into Haiku valley to a beautiful site! There was a flowing stream and a natural spring! The water in the spring is so pure and the children had the chance to drink fresh spring water. Yum! Ask your child what they thought about the water. We also helped to weed and mound a lo'i. We were so muddy, but got to rinse off in the fresh, sparkling Haiku stream!

Reminders for Week #4

• Mon., July 9: Aquarium field trip- Shoes, snack and drink are needed.

• Tues., July 10: Squid dissection activity- We will be dissecting squid and studying the body parts. After we are done with the squid, we will be making calamari. 

          Parent help needed for this activity!      

• Wed., July 11: Hanauma Bay- Please see calendar for details.

          Parent help needed for this field trip!       

• Thurs., July 12: Workshop: Papermaking

                                  Summer for the Aina fair: Hope you have the chance to stop by!

• Fri., July 13: Workshop: Healthy Cooking