KAPOLEI — Kapolei Middle School agriculture teacher Ashley Fuerst was honored today with the 2026 State Teacher of Promise award. The award is granted annually by the Milken Educators of Hawai‘i — a select group of Hawai‘i educators who have been recognized by the nationally renowned Milken Family Foundation — to a classroom teacher who demonstrates outstanding commitment and potential during their first three years with the Hawai‘i State Department of Education (HIDOE).

Fuerst, a proud graduate of both Kapolei Middle and High Schools, has made a significant impact in just her sixth semester of teaching. She was honored for her innovation in establishing the middle school’s thriving agriculture program.

She received a $4,000 cash prize sponsored by HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union for professional development during a surprise presentation at a faculty meeting Wednesday.

“Ashley’s passion for teaching and her ability to turn vision into reality truly embodies what it means to be a Teacher of Promise,” Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. “Through her leadership, students are gaining the knowledge and skills to become globally competitive while remaining locally committed in their responsibility to care for our communities and our ʻāina. To establish a dynamic agriculture program that connects learning to real-world application, sustainability and culture in meaningful ways in just her first two years of teaching is truly inspirational.”

In addition to launching the school’s agriculture program, Ashley secured more than $45,000 in grants and donations to fully fund the program’s development — including an aquaponics garden and modern agricultural systems — without cost to the school.

Her classroom emphasizes hands-on, place-based learning, where students engage directly with sustainability practices, cultural knowledge and STEM concepts. Through projects like aquaponics and tower gardens, students explore real-world applications of science and agriculture while developing a deeper connection to ʻāina-based education.

Fuerst has also cultivated strong community partnerships to expand student opportunities, working with organizations such as Koʻolau Farmers, Mālama Learning Center, KUPU, Ho’opili Ai and local agricultural partners to provide field experiences, mentorship and resources. These collaborations support student learning while connecting classroom instruction to future career pathways.

“Ashley sets herself apart through her initiative, resourcefulness and passion for creating meaningful, real-world learning opportunities for her students,” Kapolei Middle School Principal Daryl Agena said. “In a short time, she has built a high-impact agriculture program from the ground up — securing resources, cultivating partnerships and creating a lasting learning pathway rooted in sustainability and ʻāina-based education. Her work is already leaving a lasting impact on our students and school community.”

Fuerst’s commitment to professional growth further distinguishes her as an emerging leader. She has completed specialized training in ʻāina-based education, sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, consistently applying new learning to strengthen her program and expand opportunities for students.

“I just feel so absolutely shocked,” Fuerst said upon receiving the honor. “I feel so honored to be considered for something like this… I just feel like I had so much support getting to where I was, so I wish everyone along the way could be honored also.” 

Established in 2006, the Teacher of Promise award alternates annually between elementary and secondary teachers, with the state winner selected from a group of HIDOE complex area honorees.