As we close out another school year at Hala Kahiki Montessori School - on the beautiful island of Lāna‘i - we pause to reflect on the journey we’ve shared with our students, families, and each other. In the quiet moments and the spirited ones, in the small milestones and big breakthroughs, this year has been filled with heart, wonder, and meaningful growth.

Montessori education is built on the belief that children are capable, curious, and deeply connected to the world around them. Over the past months, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing those qualities blossom in every child who walked through our doors. These reflections, shared by our teaching team, tell the story of a school year filled with purpose and joy.

Moments That Filled Our Hearts
It’s difficult to choose just one moment that stood out—there have been so many. One that stays with us is from the Ākulikuli Community, where children consistently showed deep empathy for one another. Without adult prompting, the children often noticed when a classmate was sad, offered comfort through a gentle hug, or stepped in to help with a task. Their actions, rooted in kindness and compassion, reminded us of the hope we have for the next generation.

In another powerful moment from our Kauna'oa Community, a teacher reflected on building a connection with a child they initially found challenging to reach. Over time, through consistency and care, that relationship transformed. “Now, all the little hugs and ‘I love you’ exchanges melt my heart,” they shared. “It reminds me that connection takes time, and sometimes the hardest wins are the sweetest.”

And then there are the moments that surprise us—like a 4-year-old counting their classmates in English, Hawaiian, and Spanish during outside time. A simple game became a reflection of cultural appreciation, linguistic growth, and playful learning all at once. These unexpected gifts are what make every day special.

A Year of Growing Independence
One of the most beautiful aspects of Montessori education is the emphasis on independence. This year, we saw that blossom in countless ways, both big and small.

From 1 and 2 year olds mastering the art of pouring water from a pitcher with barely a spill, to older children confidently preparing and cleaning up their snacks, we witnessed children take ownership of their daily routines. One teacher recalled watching a child wash their hands, prepare their snack with care, eat with calm focus, and then clean their dishes—without a single prompt. “That quiet independence was everything. It reminded me why I chose Montessori.”

Another shift we observed was in peer leadership. Children who began the year as curious observers grew into confident mentors, showing new classmates how to use materials, navigate the classroom, and handle conflict respectfully. The language we heard in the classroom evolved from teacher-led problem-solving to children using phrases like, “That’s my work” or “Stop, I don’t like that,” all on their own.

In the Kauna’oa classroom, “Walking on the Line” was introduced as a grounding, movement-based work. What started as a teacher-led activity slowly transformed. One day, the bell rang, and without any instruction, the children began the activity independently choosing calm, intentional movement to center themselves before transitioning to their next task. It was one of many quiet milestones that filled us with pride.

Breakthroughs, “Aha!” Moments, and Beloved Work
Throughout the year, we celebrated many “aha!” moments—those beautiful flashes of realization when a new skill clicks into place. One such moment came when a child, after weeks of effort with the Moveable Alphabet, finally sounded out a word. They looked up, eyes wide, and whispered, “I did it.” It was quiet, but the joy in their voice spoke volumes. We were reminded of the importance of slowing down and honoring each child’s individual pace.

We also saw a surge of interest in language work. Materials like the Waseca Towers, chalkboards, and writing paper became classroom favorites. Children proudly wrote their names, labeled objects, and shared notes with friends. The sense of ownership and pride that came from expressing themselves through writing was profound.

And then, there were the scissors. Yes—scissors! Cutting work became a hit in both our Ākulikuli and Kauna’oa communities. Give a child a pair of scissors and some paper, and suddenly, they were immersed in focus, creativity, and skill-building. These seemingly simple materials often became the most powerful tools for growth.

Lessons from the Children
As much as we strive to teach and guide our students, we are always learning from them, too.

This year, the children reminded us to slow down, to see the world with fresh eyes, and to appreciate the beauty in small things. One teacher reflected on how often the children pointed out a mo‘o sunning itself on the playground. “They’d ask, ‘Is it cold?’ ‘Where is its family?’ Their compassion and curiosity reminded me just how big their hearts are.”

We also learned, again and again, the value of patience. Children live in a different sense of time—one that’s rooted in repetition, exploration, and presence. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is slow down with them and meet them where they are.

Looking Ahead: Hopes for the New Year
As we prepare to welcome a new school year, we hold close our hopes and intentions. Some of us are focusing on strengthening our observation skills—to better understand each child’s unique path. Others are setting intentions to be gentler in our language and more purposeful in how we introduce and guide through materials.

Mostly, we’re looking forward to continuing this journey with our children—watching them become the “big kids” they so proudly aspire to be and honoring each step they take.

When asked what our classroom theme song would be this year, the answers made us smile: “Something upbeat, a little chaotic, but full of heart—like us!” Another teacher offered, “The Floor is Lava”—because some days felt exactly like that, but we always found our way through with laughter, teamwork, and joy.

We also embraced a softer, more tender anthem this year: “Just the Way You Are” by Miss Katie Sings. This gentle, heartfelt song celebrates the beauty of being loved exactly as you are—something we strive to embody every day in our classrooms. Whether a child was having a hard day or a triumphant one, this song reminded us (and them) that they are enough, just as they come.

With Gratitude
To our families: thank you for trusting us with your children. 

To our students: thank you for sharing your light, your curiosity, and your love of learning. 

And to our teaching team: thank you for showing up each day with open hearts and steady hands.

This year was a tapestry of joyful learning, quiet breakthroughs, and shared discoveries. We’re endlessly grateful to be on this journey together and can’t wait to see what next year brings.

"Of all things, love is the most potent."
Maria Montessori

About Hala Kahiki
Designed for children 18 months – 6 years, Hala Kahiki is the first and only authentic Montessori school on Lāna’i.  Under the guiding influence of specially trained teachers, children work with multi-sensorial materials to help them learn to think critically and become well-rounded global citizens.  We would love to partner with you to give your children the best-possible early childhood education; please let us know how we can help you achieve your goals for your child.