Name: Sandra Fukuji
Age: 32
Position: Kindergarten teacher
Education: University of Hawaii
Pastimes: Work on photo albums, taking pictures, collecting teddy bear figurines

"If they start off with a bad experience, then they're not going to like school," she added.

Fukuji's class learns the alphabet by using students' names.

Each week, students are designated very important people and given the opportunity to share their family, hobbies, culture and favorite things.

Class lessons also include manners, responsibility and being on time. "I stress (that) things that they learn in kindergarten they'll take with them forever."

Parents said they like the monthly newsletter informing them about the lesson plans, activities and progress of each child that Fukuji distributes at the end of the month.

Jayson Pang said his son Justinian received a first-rate kindergarten experience from Fukuji. "She did a really excellent job of helping children reach their potential," he said.

Ronald Abe, principal at Aina Haina during Fukuji's three years there, said, "She's an excellent teacher. She shows a lot of enthusiasm, a lot of love and that special touch she gives to every child in her class."

Fukuji is at Kaleiopuu School this fall.

"No matter where this individual teacher goes, she'll still do very well," Abe said.