Lepo and Roots STEAM Workshop Fosters Learning, Creativity

Lepo and Roots STEAM workshop. Contributed photo

UH CTAHR Farm to School News Release

On June 3, five dedicated educators from Molokai gathered at the Molokai Cooperative Extension Office (CTAHR) to take part in the Lepo and Roots STEAM Workshop — a hands-on, garden-based professional development experience that blended science, art, and culture in creative and meaningful ways.

The workshop introduced teachers to the vibrant possibilities of integrating gardening with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education. Participants explored natural dye-making techniques using locally sourced plants, including ʻolena (turmeric), beets, and ukiuki berries. They also learned how to make “lepo” paint, connecting them to the cultural and environmental significance of lepo (soil).

Throughout the day, educators engaged with moʻolelo (stories) about the importance of lepo, grounding the workshop in Hawaiian knowledge systems and place-based learning. They ventured into the food forest to gather natural materials for stamping and art-making. With these materials and dyes, teachers tie-dyed and stamped fabric bags and bandanas — beautiful, functional items that reflected their creativity and the lessons of the day.

Beyond the artistic creations, the workshop aimed to equip teachers with practical tools and culturally rooted resources to bring back to their classrooms. Each participant left with a collection of gardening and STEAM resources to implement with their students, further connecting children to ʻāina and innovation when school resumes.

A delicious, locally sourced lunch was provided by Na‘ike, nourishing participants as they collaborated, created, and shared ideas throughout the day. The meal, prepared with ingredients grown and harvested in Hawai‘i, reinforced the workshop’s overarching theme of sustainability and rootedness in ʻaina, reminding educators that mindful choices — from classroom lessons to the food we eat — can help cultivate a deeper connection to place and community.

The event was made possible through the collaboration with Kristina Cacpal of UH CTAHR Farm to School, Dr. Koh Ming Wei from the nonprofit Center for Getting Things Started, and Eileen Carr, a Waikiki Elementary teacher and former educator at Kualapuʻu School. Their combined expertise in education, agriculture, and cultural practice created a rich learning environment for participants.

Workshops like Lepo and Roots show how professional development can be more than just training — it can be a celebration of culture, community, and creativity that inspires both teachers and the students they serve.