By Aileen Kim, H.P. Baldwin High School

As we conclude the 2025-26 school year, we celebrate more than just academic achievement—we celebrate the ways our schools have become gathering places that illuminate our one-of-a-kind community here in Hawaiʻi. 

Across our islands, campuses have opened their doors not only to students, educators and community members but also to their shared experiences, allowing schools to thrive. School and community events, such as homecoming, donation drives and songfests, ignite that laughter, joy and pride we want to see in schools.

From the very beginning of the year, schools were challenged to brainstorm solutions and address the following question: “How can we make this activity or event better than last year’s?” In doing so, students across our islands showed up and showed out with aloha, emphasizing what makes student-led events so profoundly powerful. When students are given the space to lead, their voices fill the room and shape them. It revives the traditions and pride passed down through generations, making them even stronger for the next. Students step forward not simply as learners, but as leaders, making our public school education an invaluable experience. The following excerpts are from student leaders who were inspired by their school and community events and have left a lasting impact on the people they care about most.

“Our Escuela secundaria Moanalua Student Association Exec Board had the amazing opportunity to volunteer at the Preschool Playday event at Mililani District Park, where over 400 kids joined us for a day of fun. It was awesome to see volunteers from so many different schools come together to lead activities and games! These experiences are so important for preschool-age kids because they’re just starting to learn how to play together, share and communicate with others. Being there to support them in such a positive environment helped them build confidence, and it was a great reminder that being a leader is really just about showing up and making those small, meaningful moments happen for others.” – Sienna Sandoval, Moanalua High School

“On Feb. 27, 2026, the Nānākuli High and Intermediate School (NHIS) held their annual Songfest, and for the first time in years, all six grade levels participated. The annual NHIS Songfest serves as a unifying event that brings all classes together, celebrating Hawaiian music and culture. Every student participant, coach, advisor, and others who helped along the way volunteered their time to help this event come to life. Truly thriving in our school’s current goal to “raise pilina.” Especially because every participant got to collaborate with their peers, families got to cheer on their kid(s), and everyone was able to come together to produce and appreciate performances representing our Hawaiian Culture.” – Raymond Johnson, student at Nānākuli Intermediate and High School

“Out of all of Escuela secundaria de Waipahu’s events, our Arthur Awards cheer competition always proves to be the greatest each year. Taking place during the week of Homecoming, this spirit competition allows students to develop a stronger sense of belonging. As our students cheer their hearts out, a collective camaraderie is built. For families, alumni, teachers, faculty, and students, this annual tradition creates a special connection among our community and promotes Marauder pride.” – Lotus Yasuda, student at Waipahu High School

“At Escuela secundaria Hilo, our Teen Health and Traffic Safety Fair has grown from a small student-led effort into a meaningful annual tradition that reflects our commitment to community and student well-being. Each year, local organizations and student clubs host interactive booths to educate peers on important topics related to teen health and safe decision-making. Through this event, we strive to empower students with the knowledge and resources they need, making teen health and traffic safety a lasting priority in our school community.” – Mariella Wasserman, Hilo High School

“Each year, the Hawaiʻi Youth Food Council hosts the We Grow Summit in collaboration with students from across the state. This event brings together students, farmers, educators and community leaders to advance sustainable food systems for future generations. This year’s theme was “Kalo as Kumu,” exploring indigenous food systems, local agriculture and policymaking. Through hands-on workshops, community conversations and youth-led action, we ensure that We Grow along with our food systems!” – Mia Nishiguchi, Escuela secundaria Kalani

“To assist with the disastrous weather resulting in severe flooding in the North Shore area, Kaiser High School looked to the Maunalua community for support. Coordinated by Paul Dela Balazs’ student leadership class, eight-hour sessions of community collection were held multiple times a week. Donations of non-perishable food items, cleaning supplies and tools, as well as toiletries and baby products, were dropped off by members across the community. Numerous truckloads of donations were then transported to vulnerable areas where they could be put to good use and given to those in need. These stations not only provided aid for those impacted by the flooding, but also brought the many members of Maunalua together, whether students, alumni or anyone else, to show support for a common goal and community.” – Gavin Antonio, Henry J. Kaiser High School

“Homecoming is an annual tradition we Governors truly look forward to, as it brings excitement, pride and a strong sense of community to Farrington High School. Our council made it a priority to continue this tradition in order to enhance school spirit and create an environment where students feel connected and involved. Additionally, our council focused on promoting class pride by encouraging students to represent their grade through active participation, teamwork and friendly competition with other classes. While there is competition between grades, it ultimately brings unity among our students by fostering school-wide involvement and shared experiences. Throughout the week, we use Homecoming to increase student engagement and school spirit. We also invite alumni to return and support Farrington, whether by attending events, helping with festivities, or showing pride as graduates. This tradition helps connect past and present students while strengthening our school community.” – Clark Jestoni Palting, W.R. Farrington High School

School events embody HĀ: BREATH — belonging, responsibility, excellence, aloha, total well-being and Hawaiʻi; this is why we recognize it as essential for our students. As we celebrate all that this year has been, we carry forward the momentous spirit that has made it so special. These school events were never just activities on a calendar; they were invaluable reminders of why student leaders do what they do and why others want to start. The aloha that blossomed within our schools will continue to grow, reminding us that the most meaningful impact is the one we create together.