MHS State Winners Head to National Educators Rising Conference

MHS Educators Rising News Release

Four talented Molokai High School (MHS) Educators Rising (EdRising) state winners departed Molokai on June 1, to showcase their skills on the national stage. Kealaula Pali, Kruz Lani, Leila Pereira and Mark Ragonton are traveling to Portland, Oregon, to compete in the 2026 Educators Rising National Conference, running from June 20–23.

The students earned their spots after a stellar performance at Hawaii’s first in-person Educators Rising State Conference and Competition, held on February 5 – 6, 2026, at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Education.

Educators Rising is a vital national program active in 42 states. It is strategically designed to eliminate the critical teacher shortage by creating clear, engaging pathways for current and recently graduated students to explore careers in education. The organization’s core mission is to inspire rising educators to become community leaders and passionate advocates for high-quality education.

About Molokai High School Educators Rising

Molokai High School’s Educators Rising chapter cultivates the next generation of local educators and community leaders. By participating in state and national competitions, MHS students gain invaluable real-world experience, networking opportunities, and professional development specifically in the field of education which can be used in other career pathways.