Navigating Success: Mālama Honua 5th Grade Portfolio Defense Story

Mālama Honua Public Charter School celebrated the achievements of its 5th graders with a series of milestone events, highlighting their journey and growth through the portfolio defense which started in March, as well as sailing training, and the Kīhei ceremony in May. These activities embody the school's commitment to cultivating the "mind of the navigator" in its students, combining academic learning with cultural and practical experiences.
The 5th-grade portfolio defense is a cornerstone of Mālama Honua's educational approach. Students present and defend their body of work, demonstrating their learning and growth. This rigorous process requires extensive research, writing, and presentation skills. Students reflect on their journey, highlighting specific experiences and how they embody the six "mind of the navigator" skills: confident cultural identity, civic responsibility, communication and collaboration, ethical problem-solving, environmental awareness, and global perspective. Not all students pass on their first attempt, but those who need to resubmit receive valuable feedback and the opportunity to improve their presentations.
In addition to the portfolio defense, students engage in hands-on sailing skills. On the day we visited, sixth graders were teaching the fifth grade class essential lessons to prepare them for their journey on the water.
At the end of the school year, Mālama Honua held a Kīhei ceremony for the 5th graders, marking the successful completion of the 5th-grade defense. These students will now participate in a 6th grade sail, 4 days and 3 nights sailing in the waters of Kaneʻohe Bay, which includes a visit to Moku o Loe (Coconut Island) Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology.
Mālama Honua's holistic approach to education, which integrates academic rigor with cultural and practical experiences, ensures that students are not only well-prepared academically but also grounded in their cultural identity and ready to contribute positively to their community.
Written and produced by Sheryl Turbeville, Communications & Services Director at the Hawaiʻi State Public Charter School Commission
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