Name: Gloria Juan
Age: 42
Position: Music director, Kealakehe Intermediate School
Education: University of Hawaii-Manoa
Pastime: Tennis ("Put a racket in my hand and I go crazy.")

"She is too young yet to be considered a legend, but that's the only thing that keeps her from having that reputation," said Staton, director of the Kona Community Chorus.

When Kealakehe Intermediate Principal Bob Gentzel asked the former Kalihi girl if she would apply for the award, she said, "Of course not."

She did it anyway, to draw attention to the music program.

Like other school arts programs, music is considered "nice to have," Juan said. That means when money is tight, it may be cut.

The arts are important for teaching the "whole child," but even more important for some Kona children, she said. "There are some children who may find success only in the arts," she said.

As Kona has gone through two decades of massive growth and cultural change, local kids can still gain pride and recognition by bringing family songs from home, she said.

Juan also teaches "haole" music, prompting the children of mainland transplants to say, "My grandma sang that song."

Music also teaches responsibility. The school lends children $180 all-koa Kamaka ukuleles.

"In the 17 years I've taught this class, I've lost two," Juan said. "They realize it's a privilege to be taking this class."