A Kaimuki High School teacher has been named Hawaii's 2027 State Teacher of the Year, a bright spot for the school and for hands-on career education in the islands.

• Chu Hong teaches agriculture, food and natural sciences, and entrepreneurship at Kaimuki High School.
• She had no formal background in the field but built a program where students learn composting, sustainability, and running a business.
• Students grow and sell lettuce, and raise koi on campus as part of the program.
• Hong credited the school's leadership and the students, calling the award a win for the whole school rather than herself.

Outlook: The award puts a spotlight on Kaimuki High's program and will likely bring more attention and support to hands-on agriculture and business education in Hawaii schools.