Molokai Kumu Develops Online Keiki Program

Ka Hale Hoaka News Release

Ka Hale Hoaka, an online Hawaiian learning school, is pleased to announce its Keiki Program.

The 16-module program is targeted to students ages 5-11 and teaches Hawaiian language, music, chant, hula, arts, and crafts. The Keiki Program is designed to be implemented into the existing distance learning curriculum of elementary schools statewide.

The Keiki Program is taught by co-founder Maile “Kumu Maile” Naehu, a Kumu, Native Hawaiian educator, performer, artist, and community organizer from the island of Molokai. Naehu has taught Hawaiian immersion for Kamehameha Schools and is a resource teacher for the DOE.

“We founded Ka Hale Hoaka as a creative way to connect keiki to the rich, timeless teachings of Hawaii, especially as schools transitioned to online curriculum,” said Naehu. “We hope these interactive lessons benefit our children in a deep and lasting manner and create a new generation of storytellers.”

The Keiki Program costs $97 and includes one year of access to video sessions with Kumu Maile, learning about Hawaiian stories, language and traditions and learning leadership values to be a positive influence in the world. It also includes Hawaiian music, song, dance, stories and chants, all to be enjoyed from the comfort of your home, at your own pace.

Students who sign up for the Keiki Program between now and Dec. 27 will have access to two live Haʻawaina Paheona (art classes) during winter break on Dec. 28 and Jan. 4. The program is also available for a monthly subscription rate of $12 per month.

To sample the Keiki Program curriculum, Ka Hale Hoaka offers a complimentary 30-minute session with Kumu Maile.

To register or for more information, visit kahalehoaka.com/trial.

People of all ages, ethnic backgrounds, and geographical locations are invited to learn with Ka Hale Hoaka, which is intended to be an engaging and approachable way to embrace Hawaiian culture. Additional Ka Hale Hoaka programs include Ke Ao Nei, a science course, and an adult learning program is expected to roll out in early 2021.

Ka Hale Hoaka is a new Hawaii-inspired learning environment that explores cultural beliefs, traditions and practices rooted in a Hawaiian perspective. Ka Hale Hoaka was founded upon the belief that ancient wisdom holds the answers to modern problems. The curriculum is based upon the Hawaiian proverb “I ka wa ma mua, i ka wa ma hope,” meaning the future is in our past. For more information, visit kahalehoaka.com.