‘Aha Punana Leo

 HR Support Helps Nonprofit Perpetuate Hawaiian Language

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In Hawaiian, punana leo means “nest of voices,” which clearly illustrates the teaching philosophy of ‘Aha Punana Leo. Committed to revitalizing and perpetuating the Hawaiian language, ‘APL engages students exclusively in their native language and culture and requires active parent participation in their children’s learning experience. This vibrant nonprofit conducts its daily activities in Hawaiian—from its network of preschools to its business offices in Hilo and Honolulu.

In its 25-year history, ‘Aha Punana Leo has grown from a student population of fewer than 40 to having now educated more than 2,000 students in preschool and K-12 charter schools. The organization is active in both the native Hawaiian community and the broader multi-racial community to foster academic, social and economic progress in Hawaii. With its tremendous growth, `Aha Punana Leo recognized they needed an expert to handle the one consistent challenge they faced—administering their human resources.