For 20 years, Mid-Pacific’s Kūpuna Day has been a cherished tradition, honoring the profound connection between students and their grandparents, parents, and hanai ‘ohana. What began as a small gathering—where kūpuna performed for children under a shaded tarp—has blossomed into a heartfelt annual celebration, welcoming families from across the world, including as far as New Zealand and Peru.
Kūpuna Day is more than an event—it is an affirmation of belonging, a living expression of Mid-Pacific’s mission to cultivate compassionate world-ready learners through deep connections and shared experiences. “The students feel loved, cared for, and truly special in the eyes of their kūpuna,” shared Dr. Edna Hussey, Preschool and Elementary Principal. “There’s security in that relationship—an understanding that no matter what, they are valued.”
Each year, the school courtyard fills with joy as kūpuna and students gather for a warm welcome with refreshments, the sound of a bagpiper leading the children, and a touching prayer and song. The heart of the event, however, takes place in the classroom, where kūpuna and the children engage in meaningful activities, sharing stories, memories, and perspectives. This Celebration of Learning allows students to see the world through their kūpuna’s eyes, strengthening family bonds while fostering an appreciation for the generations that came before them.
Over the years, Kūpuna Day has evolved to include virtual options for families living far away or for those who can’t make it in person. Looking ahead, school leaders express confidence that Kūpuna Day will continue to evolve while remaining true to its core purpose—celebrating the bond between generations and instilling a sense of gratitude and respect in students. As one kūpuna reflected, “This day reminds us that we are not just visitors in our grandchildren’s lives—we are part of their journey, shaping who they are and who they will become.”
Kūpuna Day is a powerful reflection of Mid-Pacific’s mission—a moment where students not only recognize their place in their family’s history but also carry forward the values of love, respect, and lifelong learning that will guide them far beyond the classroom.