Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha (KKNOK) Charter School on Kauai celebrates publishing over 400 Books in Olelo Niihau.
Students and staff at KKNOK have written and published more than 400 books in the Niihau dialect of the Hawaiian language in an effort to perpetuate the language. KKNOK is the only Hawaiian Language Immersion Niihau dialect school in the state.
Six years ago students and staff began writing and publishing books, creating a vibrant literary legacy.The school’s mission is to strengthen and perpetuate the Niihau dialect of Hawaiian among the children and youth of the Niihau community on Kauai. Poo Tumu (Principal) Tia Koerte said, “There were zero materials published in our language; a lot of it was handwritten or delivered orally.” Koerte explained that this lack of resources led them to partner with Hamline University in Minnesota to create books that would resonate with her students.
Each year, every student from preschool to 12th grade authors at least one book. Koerte and her team select a different genre and topic for students to write about each year.
Their goal is to publish one thousand books in Olelo Niihau, ensuring that the Niihau dialect continues to thrive for generations to come.
Written and produced by Sheryl Turbeville, Communications & Services Director at the Hawaiʻi State Public Charter School Commission
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