Bytes and Pieces

in a social setting, and I have translated this into my classroom. Learning isn’t just about facts or applying knowledge; it’s also about an experience. Visitors are usually shocked at the way we learn. There is always laughter, competition, cooperation, communication and creativity in my classroom. Mentoring others (teachers) has given me a way to show them how to bring their own personality into their teaching practices as well as to explain my own.”

Southeast: Allyson DeYoung, TN Chi

Allyson is in her ninth year as principal of Middle Valley Elementary School. “I have had the unique privilege of crafting school culture which articulates core values and exemplifies what is best in producing lifelong learners. My school community collectively believes when every child is nurtured emotionally, socially, physically, and academically, they will demonstrate a passion for learning and maximize their potential toward educational excellence. As an instructional leader, I work with teachers to model those practices that would improve the teacher’s craft. One of my guiding principles is the Law of Significance which states ‘One is too small a number to achieve greatness.’”

When Allyson became principal, the school library had a limited number of books. After her students participated in The Scotty Probasco Read 20 initiative, her students are now actively engaged in reading, and the library is filled with new books. Southwest: Alohilani Okamura, HI Nu

“Ka Mana O Loko, The Power is Within. This Hawaiian proverb shapes my philosophy of teaching as it speaks to the ability of individuals to positively contribute and influence communities. Over my 25 plus years in the Hawai’i Department of Education, I have resolved that it is vital to bring the joy of engagement, the rigor of discipline and the opportunity for meaningful and relevant discourse into my classroom. As Hawaiian is my second language, acquiring the language is a commitment to lifelong learning. In learning the language and culture, it is my responsibility to give back. My give back is through teaching. Teaching Hawaiian restores culturally healthy and responsive learning environments by creating a framework that acknowledges the three piko (centers) of our spiritual connection to past, present and future in the development of the mauli (essence of life).”

Alohilani initiated the Hawaiian language program at Kalakauna Intermediate School in 1994 and the Hawaiian language program at W.R. Farrington High School in 1997. It was the first time in many years that students were given the chance to study the language as an elective course. “The program,” she said, “became an equalizing force on the campus which encouraged tolerance, acceptance and aloha in the student community.” In 2003, she founded the Hawaiian Academy at Farrington as an interdisciplinary program of study to perpetuate the Hawaiian language and culture and to increase student achievement.

Sisters Unite to “Share the Spirit” with Babati, Tanzania

Dear Sisters,

Thanks to your generosity, Project C.H.E.A.R. is well underway. The foundation of the new children’s home, MAHOCE, has been completed, and now walls are being constructed. As promised in the proposal, lemon, lime, mango, orange and tangerine trees are planted and growing. Joshua Johnston, MAHOCE field director, oversees the operation and works closely with local Babati artisans and laborers. Project C.H.E.A.R. is having a profound impact on their lives with this work opportunity. Harambee Foundation’s goal is to make a difference in the lives of the children and the community. As of October, over $45,000 had been donated to the project. Please “Share the Spirit’’ of enthusiasm and excitement that surrounds the children and community of Babati as we proceed with Project C.H.E.A.R. With your help, we are confident we will achieve our $50,000 goal by July 31, 2023.

Cam Johnston, PA Eta, State and Chapter World Understanding Chair 2021-2023

Thank You, Sisters

Dear A∆K Sisters,

I was so thrilled to receive over one hundred cards from 34 U.S. states and Canada to congratulate me on my 65 years in Alpha Delta Kappa and my 101st birthday. I am thankful for my continued good health, which allowed me to stay in my home until April first when I moved into an assisted living facility, New Mercer Commons, in Fort Collins, CO.

A∆K holds a special place in my heart, and I have wonderful memories of my dear friend Evelyn Traut and I traveling to many conferences and conventions over the years. When Evelyn passed earlier this year it was a great loss, which makes it all the sweeter to hear from all of you. Thank you all for remembering me.

Your sister,

Beulah Kennicutt