At the start of the year, the 8th grade Physical Science class was confronted with three challenges. A steep, rocky, overgrown path. A polluted Marsh. A pivotal but difficult 8th grade year with all its hormonal and social upheavals. One word defined it all: CHALLENGE.
The question posed to the class was: "Is it possible to view these "challenges" as OPPORTUNITIES?" I secretly had my doubts. Could these adults-in-training take responsibility and ownership and tackle real-world problems? Was it possible to do anything about pollution levels in the Marsh? What sort of engineering feat could make that path durable, safe, and beautiful?
But first, the motive. "Miss Jackson - why are we doing this?"
Such questions are a teacher's dream. You can then excitedly explain that in the very first chapter of the Bible - before any sign of sin or serpent - God tasked the newly-formed first man with the first job. This job: To "fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion....over every living thing that moves on the earth." (Gen. 1:26-28, ESV). That to be human means to be workers and curious explorers who question and seek to understand. We were designed to build and beautify, but most importantly, to care for the creation in our own backyard. This work gives us dignity and purpose and mirrors the beauty and glory of our Creator God.
"But, do I really have to do a science fair project on the Kawainui Marsh?" Absolutely buster.
First we studied the composition and properties of water and how water is recycled through the hydrosphere. Friends from the community and State of Hawaii came to speak to us about the history of the marsh and dangers of pollution runoff. Next came the hands-on part. Half the class field tested different streams and springs for pollution levels while a second group designed and engineered various plans for the proposed path. All presented their project at science fair. And then something funny happened.
"Well class - what are your thoughts? Dare we attempt to make this idea a reality? Shall we continue this project and try to make it happen?"
A teacher knows such questions are usually formulaic - the answer will be "no" but you ask just in case. After heated internal deliberation the student's answer came back: "Yes - we want to build the path." And then I watched and marveled as boys became men and stepped up and volunteered to write a grant to the Castle Foundation. As girls became women and organized a Makahiki fundraiser that partnered with Leilani Nursery selling organic plants. Additional leadership was taken by Tanner Tamaye and Adam Hu as they organized the work crews and logistics, supervised the willing team of volunteers from grades 7-12, and helped to clear and build the mud step path.
Challenges? Yes. But also incredible opportunities.
And so, a path now exists where it didn't exist before, and boys and girls are becoming adults. Someday, maybe these adults will remember their 8th grade pollution projects and mirror God's glory and do something about it. And that is why I cried. Because last week they did take another step toward becoming men and women!
Katie Jackson
Secondary Teacher