In Hāna, Maui, a unique garden is blooming at Hāna High and Elementary School. This garden is more than just a patch of plants; it’s a vital part of the school’s daily life. It grows a variety of crops, from sweet potatoes to corn, and offers students hands-on learning experiences.
Principal Christopher Sanita describes the garden as ingrained in the school’s identity. He says, “It’s in our DNA.” For students like Puna Boy Phillips and Orama Tehiva, the garden is an essential part of their education and lifestyle. Phillips remarks, “Whenever we go hunt or fish, we get the garden for go to.”
Hāna is a remote town, with its scenic roads and one-lane bridges making it feel a world apart from Central Maui. Community outreach coordinator Hau’oli Kahaleuahi emphasizes the importance of local food. With the long distance for food to travel, learning how to grow their own sustenance becomes crucial for many families. “You don’t have too much supplies. So, you’re gonna have to use the things that you have,” explains Tehiva.
Ma Ka Hana Ka ʻIke, a program started in 2000, aims to empower students outside the traditional classroom while nurturing community ties. School garden coordinator Ryan Poe notes, “Everything is either food, medicine, flowers, or different fixtures.” Over the years, it has blossomed into an award-winning training organization for youth of all ages.
The garden operates all year round, with students, some as young as four, participating in the work. Recently, the garden earned certification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, allowing it to serve fresh, homegrown meals to students at lunchtime. This achievement has been a long time coming, with leaders pushing for it over five years.
The state of Hawaii has set an ambitious goal: by 2030, 30% of food served in public schools should come from local sources. Kahaleuahi acknowledges the challenge ahead, saying, “The systems to support that reality aren’t there yet.” Ma Ka Hana Ka ʻIke plans to collaborate with Hawaii’s Department of Education to help achieve this target.
Tehiva believes it’s essential for future generations to learn these skills. “It’s very important for our students to learn about these things. We hope to keep this going for years to come.” Gardening in Hāna isn’t just about growing food; it’s about building resilience and community, ensuring that students are prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead.
