This year, Punahou’s third graders deepened their connection to Hawaiian history and
culture through a rich journey of hands-on learning and joyful tradition. Their
experiences culminated in a festive lūʻau, where the entire Class of 2034 gathered to
celebrate what they had learned.
In the days leading up to the celebration, students rolled up their sleeves to help
prepare the imu, learning the importance of community and patience through the
traditional process of kālua cooking. They also tried their hand at making haupia with
freshly grated coconut – a sticky, sweet reward for their efforts.
The learning extended beyond campus as students visited the loʻi to harvest kalo,
honoring the land and the lessons of mālama ʻāina. This year’s thriving patch yielded
over 580 pounds of kalo – enough to produce poi for the Hawaiian plate featured at
Carnival.
With music, food, and the aloha spirit, the third-grade lūʻau was a celebration to
remember – not only of the year’s learning, but of belonging, stewardship, and joy.
