Joseph O. Goodwin Elementary School, East Hartford CT
Explore Hawaii's culture and innovative adapted physical education practices to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities and develop a curriculum that not only promotes physical fitness but also celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and empathy among all students.
One specific learning experience from my fellowship was attending a physical education class in Maui where students practiced traditional Makahiki games. These ancient Hawaiian games, part of a New Year celebration, are physical activities and cultural rituals that connect students with their heritage. Another poignant experience was witnessing the resilience and spirit of the Maui community as they continued to recover from the devastating wildfires. During my visit, I saw how
I learned that I have a deep appreciation for how integrating cultural elements into education can enhance learning experiences. Observing the Makahiki games in Maui, I realized how powerful it is to incorporate cultural traditions into educational settings. It made me reflect on my own teaching practices and how I can better incorporate cultural relevance into my curriculum to make learning more engaging and meaningful for my students.
I expected to learn about educational practices in Hawaii, but I did not fully anticipate the emotional impact of witnessing the ongoing recovery from the wildfires in Lahaina. The resilience and spirit of the Maui community, and the educators' role in providing emotional support, was a profound and unexpected aspect of my visit.
From September to October 2024, I will revise the physical education curriculum to integrate culturally relevant activities, adapted physical education practices, and innovative teaching methods, including Makahiki games. In November and December 2024, I will organize professional development workshops for district Health and PE teachers, sharing insights and resources from the fellowship. Starting January 2025, I will implement the updated curriculum and gather feedback.
I will leverage my fellowship to create an authentic learning experience by incorporating Makahiki games into our curriculum. These traditional Hawaiian games will provide hands-on, culturally rich activities that engage students in physical education while fostering cultural appreciation and inclusivity. Students will actively participate in diverse, historical games, enhancing their understanding of different cultures and promoting a deeper connection to their physical education learning.
My fellowship will extend beyond the classroom by engaging families through workshops that share innovative teaching methods, collaborating with colleagues to integrate new practices school-wide, and organizing afterschool programs focused on student-led community projects. I’ll also host community events to foster partnerships between the school and local organizations, creating a broader impact on the surrounding community.
