By Jamie Ortiz, Konawaena High School and Viane Nicole Ines, Farrington High School
When we think about the concept of a teacher, we might imagine someone guiding students through the curriculum, clad in professionalism and surrounded by chalkboards and textbooks. Yet, to define a teacher solely by their instructional role is to overlook the depth of their impact. Teachers are the architects of possibility; they cultivate curiosity, foster resilience, and shape the moral and intellectual framework of the future generation. Their influence extends far beyond academics. During the hours we spend in classrooms, educators challenge us to think critically, encourage us to lead with empathy, and model the values that anchor strong communities. In a rapidly changing world, teachers remain a steady force, nurturing growth in our knowledge, but, more importantly, our character.
Across our public schools, countless students have shared their appreciation for the educators who have shaped their lives in profound ways.
“To Ms. (Viviana) Martinez, I thank you for keeping classrooms open for Pacific and Asian Affairs Council meetings and being the liaison between our club members and opportunities in community service. You are truly deserving of the title “Complex Area Teacher of the Year.” To my Cross Country/Track coach, Shayli Nakamoto, your tenacity when dealing with my shenanigans is second to none, I am thankful that you’ve been able to recognize my potential at times that I could not. From teachers to counselors, to coaches, and the educators that shape young minds outside of school, I am eternally grateful for the opportunities that you have opened to students all over the globe.” – Jamie Ortiz, Konawaena High School
“Ms. Theresa Schubert, my previous Leadership Training teacher, had a profound impact on me. She taught me that true leadership is not defined by rigid structures, but by the ability to approach challenges with open-mindedness, empathy, and resilience. Her approach reshaped my understanding of leadership, showing me that growth comes from embracing discomfort and leading with intention.” – Viane Nicole Ines, Gov. Wallace Rider Farrington High School
“A teacher that I’d specifically like to thank is Ms. (Kristi) Higuchi-Delos Santos. She’s been my teacher for the past four years in piano class and she’s taught me way more than just piano–how to be a good person, how to live in the real world, how to adapt to changes and, of course, playing the piano. She’s really been an inspiration for me.” – Logan Riehle, Mililani High School
“Personally, my teachers have had a wholehearted impact on me – not only helping me become a better student, but also a better person. Their belief in me pushed me to believe in myself, and their lessons extended far beyond the classroom” – Alayna Kadarusman, Pāhoa Intermediate and High School
“Teachers are the torchbearers of hope, guiding the future of Hawai’i through their efforts in the classroom. Mrs. Joy Takara, Student Activities Coordinator at Waipahu High School, has tirelessly dedicated herself to creating an environment rich with school spirit. I deeply appreciate all her hard work behind the scenes to ensure every school event runs smoothly, and I am truly fortunate to have such an inspiring ‘school mom’ to learn from.” – Lotus Yasuda, Waipahu High School
“Mrs. (Divina) Plowman has always made me believe that I could do anything as long as I put my mind to it. Most of all, she believed in me :). Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!” – Angela Querubin, Kaua‘i High School
“Mrs. Keiko Sagawa-Pananganan is a tremendous inspiration to many students at Waimea High School. As a CTE Health Teacher, Health Occupations Students of America club advisor, and varsity bowling coach, Mrs. Sagawa-Pananganan continuously encourages and motivates her students to be the best people they can be in and outside the classroom, whether it’s going beyond reach for student opportunities or planning engaging, significant school and community events. We are truly grateful for the unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and the profound positive impact she has on all those around her.” – Brynn Lee Hiilei, Waimea High School
“My Student Activities Coordinator (SAC), Ms. (Michelle) “Caz” Cazimero, has turned my potential into reality. She has played a key role in my self-growth and growth as a leader since my freshman year. She makes the student body government feel like a family, and there is no SAC that could ever replace her!” – Calliah Bolosan, Waialua High & Intermediate School
“Ms. (Lenore) Kop has been an incredible teacher who constantly pushed me to my limits and helped me reach my full potential as a student. Her unwavering support encouraged me to discover new study methods and view life from a fresh perspective. I truly appreciate everything she has done for me!” – Clark Jestoni Palting, Gov. Wallace Rider Farrington High School
“Mr. (David) Tanabe, my AP U.S. History teacher, is very passionate about teaching such a rich and complex course, and it’s clear that he cares a lot for everyone and our success. He never fails to show his appreciation for us and puts in a lot of effort to make sure that we learn. He’s helped me develop a much stronger work ethic and attitude towards learning, and I aim to do my best to show that same kind of gratitude towards others.” – Gavin Antonio, Henry J. Kaiser High School
“Mr. (Adam) Skal was my AVID teacher at Aliamanu Middle School, he inspired me to learn more about the world, exploring different perspectives and getting an educated view on current events. I think without him, my passion in government and politics, and my passion in international relations/diplomacy wouldn’t have gotten this far. Very much grateful for the impact he has had on my life.” – Gregory John Cachero, Admiral Arthur W. Radford High School
“A teacher who has positively impacted me is my school’s band director, Gregg Abe, because he always leads with patience and dedication. His commitment to his students has inspired me to always work hard on our work. Mr. Abe has created a supportive and fun environment where we can grow as individuals, and I’m grateful for all the effort he puts into helping us succeed.” – Jasmine Miyake, President Theodore Roosevelt High School
“One teacher who has positively impacted me is Mrs. Nishimoto, or Aunty Patti. Aunty Patti has really made my high school experience so memorable and enjoyable. This is because she helped me get involved in school activities during my freshman year. She then introduced me to HSSC, and I have made so many friends from it and really enjoy all the people. I appreciate Aunty Patti because she helped me get out of my comfort zone and become more involved throughout high school.” – Janea Gomez, Waiākea High School
“A teacher who has positively impacted me would be my leadership teacher, Mrs. (Janine) Arisumi, because she has always been a person whom I feel comfortable sharing information with, and she always offers advice. I’ve known her for almost three years now, and she has created a very safe and comfortable environment and is always willing to help me through hard times, school, and other stuff. As well as she is always seen smiling and laughing while she makes sure that everyone feels heard, and everyone is included in conversations.” – Jennifer Nguyen, Admiral Arthur W. Radford High School
“Kumu Linda Jury is both my SAC and school mother! Not only am I a better leader because of her, but she’s also helped me love myself. I love and appreciate Kumu so much because she always tries to push our council to the best it can be.” – Joelle Angelica Evasco, Waiʻanae High School
“Justin Brown is an extraordinary teacher who pushes students to explore their integrity and interests. Mr. Brown has changed my high school experience for the better, encouraging me to pursue programs and interests I did not consider. He continually demonstrates the importance of hard work and teaches us what really matters.” – Luke Gee, Kealakehe High School
“My AVID teacher, Mrs. (Jessica) Blair, positively impacted me the most in the past few years. As a freshman, I had not been interested in leadership at all, and Mrs. Blair was the one who recommended me to Bransen, who introduced me to the Hawaiʻi State Student Council. Therefore, she was the reason I am where I am today and the reason I have been able to expand my interests so much.” – Mariella Wasserman, Hilo High School
“Kaitlyn Scheib was my chemistry teacher during my junior year, and she quickly became someone I could talk to comfortably about everything from school topics to fiber arts or random interests. I had the opportunity to learn how to make pouches and quilts, which I’m proud of. Her encouragement has continued to support me throughout my senior year as well.” – Sarah Nicole Cariaga, Lahainaluna High School
“One teacher who has positively impacted me is my leadership/SAC teacher, Mrs. (Rei) Akasaki. She makes leadership fun and something to look forward to. Even outside of leadership, she is a teacher who is hardworking and will be there to help.” – Taylor Wong, Kalani High School
“Out of my high school years, one teacher who has made an impact in my life would be my Journey to Leeward program teacher, Mr. (Jed) Uson. He gave me the motivation to continue my hard work tendencies and to strive for more as I further my education.” -Tara Oyama, Mililani High School
“Mr. (Jonathan) Oshiro is an outstanding math teacher as well as Key Club Advisor at Kaiser. He prioritizes students, remains available hours after school ends to provide study hall, and obtains over 100 service hours yearly.”– Rayden Aoki, Kaiser High School
“A teacher who made an impact on me is Mr. (Dane) Souza. He was my world history teacher in 10th grade, and he also ran the Interact Club on campus. I’ve gotten really involved with it and started helping him out a lot and eventually became the club president. His guidance and his kindness and drive really inspired me to be the same.” – Tazekiel Gaoteote, Pearl City High School
“There are a lot of teachers that I could give a shoutout to, but one would have to be Mrs. Crystal Ozaki. Primarily because she’s given me so much opportunity and given me insight into the hospitality industry and letting me see what’s available to pursue.” – Jaevyn Navarro, Kauaʻi High School
“I want to mahalo all of my kumu who have helped nurture and inspire me throughout my educational journey. I want to mahalo specifically Mrs. (Marge) Bento for always taking care of me whenever I have a function I need to get to or whenever I need kōkua in anything that I do. So mahalo to all of my kumu for their ‘ike that they instilled in me, for encouraging me to perpetuate our culture, and to be an advocate for our lāhui and our poʻe Hawai’i. Mahalo nui!” – Rose Marie Cockett, Molokai High School
“I definitely would like to thank our college and career counselor, Malia Kau. I really appreciate the fact that she is constantly on top of me to make sure that I get everything in on time. She’s really great about doing her job and helping us get to places where we want to go and actually realizing what we want to do.” – Aaliyah Gerard, 海軍上將亞瑟·拉德福德高中
“I would like to thank Mrs. Joy Nishida for always being there for me. Not only being a great math teacher, and always making sure we understand what we’re learning in class, but also being an excellent advisor for the many clubs we have on campus, and always just being a wonderful person to talk to in general.” – Sarah Ganiko, Kailua High School
“Ms. Makayla Ward, my college counselor, has done a great job guiding me through the college and career, and scholarship process. And she really helped me to put my best foot forward and develop my own motivations.” – Cameron Connery, Kealakehe High School
“Mrs. (Jessica) Patao is our English teacher. She’s just so positive and so nice to be around, and she makes a really good atmosphere for all of our students. She’s my advisor for my English 100 class, and she really helped me during that process, and trying to get everything done.” – Eden Perez, Kohala High School
“By far, one of the most impactful teachers of my life would be my AP Chemistry teacher, Mr. (Richard) Pacheco. He’s been a huge resource and honestly, one of the most inspiring and compassionate teachers that I’ve ever had. He truly understands that all students come from different backgrounds and will have different understandings of subjects. He truly takes the time to go over each and every one of the topics and break it down to different levels so that students will understand and make sure that they can comprehend the curriculum and move forward throughout their studies more confidently.” – Ciana Cooper, Maui High School
The impact our educators have extends far beyond our report cards. Their dedication shapes not only our futures but also the communities we will build, leaving a legacy that endures well beyond the classroom. To all the teachers, coaches, and mentors who guide and support us, mahalo for your unwavering dedication and the lasting difference you make in our lives.
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Jamie Ortiz is a senior at Konawaena High School and serves as the corresponding secretary for the Hawaiʻi State Student Council (HSSC). Striving to uplift student voices, he is also the class president and Pacific and Asian Affairs Council (PAAC) president. With his extracurricular activities, Jamie molds his passions of the arts and service, with a strong sense of leadership and initiative. He hopes to use his passions to build a platform for others and effectively intensify the voices of his communities.
Viane Nicole Ines is a senior at Governor W.R. Farrington High School and serves as the 2024-2025 secretary of the Hawaiʻi State Student Council (HSSC). She will be graduating this month with both her high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from Honolulu Community College, earned through Farrington’s Project Early College program. Nicole also serves as vice president of the Associated Student Body and chairperson of Farrington’s Students Speaking Out Club, the high school branch of Women Speaking Out. Her goal is to use her leadership and education to uplift others and amplify the voices of her community, creating a lasting impact through advocacy and service.
