RiseHI launches ‘Oihana Career Explorations, exploratory curriculum supporting CTE Learning
We're thrilled to announce the launch of 'Oihana Career Explorations, an innovative program designed to open doors for our keiki by providing them with access to a diverse array of career paths and local role models.
Delivered as either teacher-led or asynchronously online, 'Oihana allows students to explore various professions at their own pace, regardless of where they live. By bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications, these courses enable students to discover different career opportunities within their community.
Why 'Oihana?
In Hawai'i, our keiki face unique challenges, including geographical isolation and economic disparities. 'Oihana addresses these issues by offering online courses that ensure all students, irrespective of their geographical or socioeconomic backgrounds, have the opportunity to explore diverse careers. This approach not only broadens their perspectives on potential career paths but also strengthens their connection to local culture and the economy.
“As a high school on the west side of Kauaʻi, our access to career resources and industry speakers can be limited. What RiseHI and their ʻOihana Career Exploration courses offer our students is an opportunity to see, hear, and be inspired by the moʻolelo of local success stories.”
Diverse Career Pathways
We're kicking off 'Oihana with nine distinct courses, each centered around a specific profession:
Pharmacy Technician: Noelle Aiono from Kaiser Permanente
Graphic Designer: Scott Na‘auao from Welcome Stranger
Entrepreneur: Tiana Gamble from Bikini Bird & Good Merch Supply
Fashion Designer: Alexis Akiona from LexBreezy Hawai'i
General Contractor: Nick Tang from Ko’olau Builders
Documentary Filmmaker: Kolby Moser from Aria Studios & Hometown Legeds
Hospital Aide: Shanadee Kekauoha from Adventist Health Castle
Commercial Driver: Alapa‘i Andrews from Take 2 Hauling
Culinary Chef: Chef Jason Peel from Nami Kaze
Each course offers an in-depth look into these professions, featuring insights from local experts who share their journeys and experiences.
Looking Ahead
Our vision extends beyond these initial nine courses. We're committed to developing a comprehensive library of at least 80 career pathway courses that align with the Hawai'i Department of Education’s 13 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways, including fields like Advanced Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Information Technology.
By aligning with these priority pathways, 'Oihana will offer students valuable insights into essential industries, preparing them for future careers that meet both personal and community needs.
Join Us on This Journey
So far we’ve partnered with these initial five schools to implement ‘Oihana into student learning:
Kapaʻa Middle School (Kauai)
Aiea High School (Oahu)
Saint Louis School (Oahu)
Maui High School (Maui)
‘Ilima Intermediate (Oahu)
“The RiseHI community provides Hawaii students access to culturally relevant curricula that directly support the Hawaii Department of Education’s commitment to ensuring that all students graduate as globally competitive and locally committed individuals.”
We're excited to embark on this journey with our community. If you're an educator interested in bringing 'Oihana to your classroom, or if you'd like to support the creation of a particular pathway, we'd love to hear from you. Together, we can empower our keiki to explore, dream, and achieve right here in Hawai'i.
For more information or to bring ʻOihana to your school, visit risehi.com/oihana or email gabe@risehi.com.
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