Kumu Wilmont Kahaialii is New Director of Hawaiian Studies

Maui Preparatory Academy is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kumu Wilmont Kahaiali'i as its new Director of Hawaiian Studies and Culture. Mr. Kahaiali'i joins the Maui Prep community as a passionate educator who brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to sharing the language, culture, history, and traditions of Hawaiʻi. The school community is truly fortunate to welcome his knowledge, enthusiasm, and aloha.

In his role, Kumu Kahaiali'i  will be directly engaging with students across all divisions. He will be teaching Hawaiian Studies to our Lower School students throughout the year, ensuring foundational cultural knowledge is instilled early. For Middle School students, he will offer quarter-based elective and X Block classes to promote deeper exploration of Hawaiian topics. Furthermore, Kumu Kahaiali'i will provide leadership for our cherished annual May Day celebration, ensuring it continues to be a vibrant and meaningful tradition for the school.

Kumu Kahaiali'i  has already begun collaborating with faculty to weave Hawaiian culture and history into the broader curriculum. He has taught 4th grade students about the profound significance of the kalo (taro) plant and is currently engaged in an ongoing collaboration with Dr. Liz Turcik's AP Human Geography class as they study cultural patterns and practices of the Hawaiian people.

Beyond the classroom, Kumu Kahaiali'i  will serve as a valuable resource and cultural advisor to our faculty, supporting teachers across all divisions in integrating Hawaiian themes into their content areas. He will also be offering workshops and classes for parents, creating opportunities for our entire Maui Prep ʻohana to learn and grow together.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome Kumu Kahaiali'i  to Maui Prep," said Ryan Kirkham, Principal. "His presence will enrich our school in countless ways, deepening our connection to the West Maui community and fostering a greater understanding of our host culture for every student and family. Please join us in extending a warm aloha to him as he begins this important and inspiring work with our community."