Welcome to Our ʻOhiʻa K/1st Multiage Class

Our Kindergarten and first grade multiage classroom is named ‘Ohi’a, after the endemic Hawaiian tree. This hardy tree is often referred to as the “pioneer tree” since it is the first to grow on cooled lava flows. The ‘ohi’a tree captures the unique developmental characteristics of students in Kindergarten and first grade. Students in these grades are pioneers in their education, establishing a foundation for growth.

Download WCS Curriculum Guide

Multiage learning allows children to grow at their own pace in a nurturing, community-based setting. Younger students learn from older peers, while older students gain leadership and empathy by modeling skills. Our ʻOhiʻa classroom values curiosity, kindness, and connection, with each other and the world around us.

This is a typical day for ʻOhiʻa:

• Morning Circle
  • We start our day with songs, greetings, calendar, and a mindful check-in to set a positive tone.
• Reading Circle
  • Shared stories, phonics games, and early reading strategies that support all learners.
• Math Rotations
  • Small-group, hands-on math games and centers help children build number sense, problem-solving skills, and confidence.
• Recess/Snack
  • Time to move, play, eat, and recharge.
• Language Arts (Daily 5)
  • Students rotate through independent and teacher-led literacy stations that support reading, writing, and word work.
• Recess/Lunch
  • Outdoor play followed by lunch and time to socialize and relax.
• Relaxation
  • A calm transition time with quiet activities like drawing, looking at books, puzzles, or listening to music—just a short moment to reset and recharge before afternoon learning.
• Afternoon Blocks (these vary by day and season):
  • Science/Social Studies – Explore the world through hands-on discovery, inquiry, and projects.
  • PE/Music – Move our bodies and express ourselves through rhythm, games, and song.
  • Garden/Art – Connect with nature and creativity through gardening and visual arts.
  • Chores – Practice responsibility and care for our classroom community.
  • SEL (Social Emotional Learning) – While we have designated times for social-emotional learning, it’s also woven throughout our day as we build friendships, solve problems, and care for ourselves and others.
  • Hula – Learn culture, language, and movement through traditional Hawaiian dance.
• Dismissal
  • We reflect on the day and say aloha to our friends and teachers until tomorrow.

Team ‘Ohi’a