Saturday, March 1, 1997
Name: Stephanie Kamakeeaina
Age: 49
Position: Teacher, Lokelani Intermediate School
Education: Chaminade University
Pastimes: Volleyball, reading
"They need to know about our islands because if we mess up, where are we going to go?" said Kamakeeaina, a teacher at Lokelani Intermediate School in Kihei.
School student activities coordinator Trisha Grimley describes Kamakeeaina as innovative and creative and willing to share her experience. "She is respected and well-liked by everyone on campus," Grimley said.
Kamakeeaina is the head of the school science department, class adviser for the seventh grade and seventh-grade songfest adviser.
The songfest, featuring Hawaiian lyrics and music, has become an annual event. "It's the best thing for the kids. It pulls them together as one," Kamakeeaina said.
About 12 years ago at age 37, she decided to go back to school to obtain a teaching degree.
She attributes her success to help from her husband, Wayne, a musician with the group Hau'ula. He assumed many family responsibilities, including rearing her then-infant son, Keala.
Kamakeeaina said she was typing a paper for her literature class when she went into labor. "I gave birth to my son, came back and typed out my final paper," she said.