The Maui News

Haleakala National Park is preparing to offer distance learning curriculum for Kula Kaiapuni (Hawaiian immersion schools) in the state.

The National Park Service is recruiting two teachers and a digital media intern to create new distance learning programs in ‘Olelo Hawai’i for fourth graders, thanks to the National Park Foundation’s Open Outdoors for Kids Grant Program, according to a news release Thursday.

Hawaiian immersion school teachers will receive $4,400 for 160 hours of work in the 2021-22 school year. The yearlong digital media intern will receive a living allowance of $480 per week, an education award based on their eligibility and gain real work experience in education and conservation with the National Park Service.

“We are looking forward to fostering new relationships with our Kula Kaiapuni community,” Honeygirl Duman, interpretation and education Specialist for Haleakala National Park, said in a news release. “This grant will provide students opportunities to learn about Haleakala in ‘Olelo Hawai’i and strengthen their cultural ties to this wahi pana.”

Teachers interested in applying should have teaching experience at Hawaiian immersion schools, familiarity with current curriculum standards and knowledge of virtual teaching methods. Applications are due Nov. 1. To apply, teachers should email a current resume to Bennadette_Duman@nps.gov.

Recent college graduates and students interested in the yearlong digital media internship at Haleakala National Park can apply through kupuhawaii.tfaforms.net/238. Applications are due Dec. 17.

For more information about National Park Service distance learning programs, visit nps.gov/teachers/index.htm.