In January, the Punahou community successfully harvested 580 pounds of high-quality kalo from the patch at The Sidney and Minnie Kosasa Community for Grades 2 – 5. This significant achievement was the result of a collaborative effort that involved many dedicated individuals. Key contributors included Physical Plant, Outdoor Education, third-grade kumu and kalo farmers Charlie Reppun ’65 and Paul Reppun ’68. Student volunteers, including third graders and Academy students, took turns during the harvesting shifts. Regardless of their age, they were all eager to dive into the mud and get to work!
The event was more than just a harvest – it provided an opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of ancient Hawaiian cultural practices and their connection to the land. This harvest also marks a milestone for the School, as it is believed to be the first time in recent history that Punahou has successfully grown and yielded enough kalo to produce poi for the Hawaiian plate, a culinary favorite at Carnival.
Photo by Kathleen Connelly