Crystal Doi

タイトル STEM Teacher Prek-6/Technology Coordinator
仕事場： カプナハラ小学校
HIDOEでの年数： 20
ポジションでの年数 8

Kapunahala Elementary STEM teacher Crystal Doi has garnered lots of national recognition and praise for her work, including being a 2026 Shell Science Award Finalist, a National University Teacher Award Finalist, and a 2022 Hawaiʻi State Finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. She is also a National STEM Certified Educator.

Q: How did you get into this field?
A: I have always been passionate about mathematics and science and fascinated by how they help us understand and improve the world around us. As technology and society continue to evolve, I believe it is essential for students to engage with relevant, real-world problems and develop the skills needed to create meaningful solutions. This belief inspired me to pursue a career in STEM education, where I can help students become critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators. Seeing students make connections between classroom learning and the challenges they encounter in everyday life continues to motivate and drive my work each day.

Q：主な職務は何ですか？
A: As the PreK–6 STEM Teacher and Technology Coordinator at Kapunahala Elementary School, my primary responsibilities include developing and implementing STEM curriculum and hands-on learning experiences for students across all grade levels. I design and facilitate quarterly STEM projects, integrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts into student learning, and support teachers in delivering engaging, standards-based instruction.

As technology coordinator, I maintain and troubleshoot campus technology resources and provide technical support for staff and schoolwide events. I also serve as the school’s videographer, documenting assemblies, performances and special events.

In addition, I am a JPO co-advisor who oversees traffic safety before and after school.

Q：この仕事で好きなところは？
A: My favorite part of my job is watching students unleash their creativity through STEM projects, take meaningful risks and work collaboratively to solve problems. It is especially rewarding to see them share ideas, learn from one another and gain confidence as they bring their innovative solutions to life.

Q：あなたのポジションで最もやりがいのあることは？
A: The hardest part of my job is knowing how much more I would like to offer my students and not always having the time, space or resources to make every idea a reality.

Q: How does your job support students?
A: Being a STEM teacher supports students by providing opportunities to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and creativity skills that are essential for success in school, careers and everyday life. Through hands-on, project-based learning experiences, students learn how to apply academic concepts to real-world challenges, make evidence-based decisions and persevere through the design and engineering process.

Q：このポジションを考えている人へのアドバイスは？
A: My advice to anyone considering a role in STEM education is to be willing to let students take the lead in their learning. Effective STEM instruction is not about having all the answers. It’s about creating opportunities for students to explore, question, design, test and discover. It is essential that students have ownership of their learning experiences and understand that mistakes are a valuable part of the learning process. Some of the most meaningful growth occurs when students learn from challenges, revise their thinking and persevere to find solutions.

Q: Fun fact about yourself?
A: I go to the gym three to four times a week. Working out is one of my favorite ways to relieve stress, recharge and stay healthy. It also helps me justify enjoying good food and drinks while maintaining a balanced lifestyle!