Keonepoko Elementary: Grade 1 Hawaiian Language Immersion Kumu, 65169 (2026-00849)

The Grade 1 Hawaiian Language Immersion (Kaiapuni) Teacher provides high-quality, culturally responsive instruction to students in a full-immersion Hawaiian language environment. The teacher is responsible for implementing the Hawaiian language curriculum, fostering student social-emotional growth, and supporting the academic success of all learners. The teacher actively collaborates with colleagues, families, and the community to maintain a learning environment that honors Hawaiian culture, language, and values.

Key Responsibilities:

Instruction & Curriculum:

Plan and deliver engaging Grade 1 lessons in Hawaiian language immersion that align with state and school standards. Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including students with disabilities and English language learners. Integrate Hawaiian cultural practices, values, and traditions into daily instruction.

Classroom Management & Student Development:

Create a safe, nurturing, and culturally responsive classroom environment. Implement effective classroom management strategies that promote positive student behavior and engagement. Foster students' social-emotional growth and support their cultural identity development.

Assessment & Reporting:

Conduct ongoing formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress. Maintain accurate records of student performance and communicate progress with parents/guardians regularly. Use data to inform instructional decisions and support individual student learning goals.

Collaboration & Professional Development:

Collaborate with Kaiapuni colleagues, support staff, and school leadership to ensure consistent instructional practices. Participate in professional learning communities focused on Hawaiian language instruction and effective teaching practices. Attend school, district, and community meetings as required.

Family & Community Engagement:

Foster strong partnerships with families, respecting and incorporating Hawaiian values and perspectives. Encourage parental involvement and participation in classroom and school activities. Engage with the local community to strengthen cultural connections and learning experiences.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Education, Hawaiian Language, or related field (Master's preferred). Valid Hawaii State Teaching License, preferably with Hawaiian Language Immersion certification. Fluency in ?Olelo Hawai?i (Hawaiian language) and understanding of Hawaiian cultural practices. Knowledge of Grade 1 curriculum standards and effective instructional strategies. Strong classroom management and communication skills. Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, families, and the community.

Preferred Attributes:

Experience teaching in Hawaiian language immersion or bilingual education programs. Commitment to promoting Hawaiian culture, values, and language in all aspects of instruction. Creativity and flexibility in lesson planning to support diverse learning styles.

Work Environment:

Classroom-based teaching in an elementary school setting. Active engagement with students, families, and school community members. Participation in school events and professional development opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications:

Valid Hawaiian Immersion license from the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board.

Desired Knowledge:

Fluent in the Hawaiian language. The Hawaii State Department of Education is committed to hiring highly qualified teachers in every classroom. With the exception of designated Career and Technology Education (CTE) positions, the minimum qualification to apply for a teacher, librarian or counselor position is a Bachelor's Degree. If you are hired without completing a Teacher's Education Program, you have a maximum of 3 years to obtain a valid Hawaii teaching license. You must enroll in a Program to continue employment with the Department. Within each year of employment, you must satisfactorily demonstrate active pursuit towards meeting Hawaii licensing requirements, as set forth by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board (HTSB). It is your responsibility to ensure the program you have enrolled is aligned with the teaching line you are hired in. Upon hire you will need to have a valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit. You may apply for your Hawaii teaching license on the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board Website ( https://hawaiiteacherstandardsboard.org/ ).Please visit www.teachinhawaii.org to review the eligibility requirements for all bonuses, differentials, and initial salary placement. To obtain a Hawaii Teaching License, which is required to receive any salary differentials, please apply with the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board at www.hawaiiteacherstandardsboard.org . For more information about this school, please visit their website at: https://keonepoko.k12.hi.us