Leahi (Diamond Head) is one of Oahu’s most popular hikes, with its sweeping coastal views and the unique experience of walking through a volcanic crater. The trail is also filled with history, and that’s what Waikiki Elementary School students want all hikers to understand.
The school’s third, fourth, and fifth graders transformed an unused kiosk into an educational zone. A life-sized mural of Hawaii’s majestic iwa bird stands as the centerpiece, surrounded by hand-drawn illustrations of the biological diversity found at Leahi.
The kiosk greets hikers at the base of the trail.
“Our school is in this magical spot at the foot of Diamond Head; it’s part of who we are,” says Courtney Carpenter, partnerships and place-based education coordinator at Waikiki Elementary School. “Under this partnership with Hawaii State Parks, our kids were able to learn and understand their connection to the community where they’re from.”
Deep dive into Diamond Head
Each grade worked on a different element of the kiosk. One hundred third graders created the eye-catching mural of the iwa and the sign accompanying it, which encourages visitors to compare their arms’ length to the native seabird’s seven-and-a-half-foot wingspan.
Courtney Carpenter compares her arms' length to the iwa's wingspan. Photo courtesy Courtney Carpenter
“The kids learned about specific Hawaiian birds at Honolulu Zoo,” explains Carpenter. “Then they put together a slideshow on the iwa, describing the meaning of the name, mythology around the bird, and where they nest.”
Visitors can access the slideshow through a QR code on the sign. Other QR codes link to the fifth graders’ hard work. They spent a year taking weekly field trips to Leahi to learn about the geology, plants, Hawaiian culture, and military history. After coming up with topics they were most interested in, the students reached out to local experts to provide more information.
“A ranger who used to work at Diamond Head taught them about natural history. Our Hawaiian Studies teacher helped with the cultural aspect,” says Carpenter. “And Denby Fawcett, who wrote Secrets of Diamond Head: A History and Trail Guide, gave students a great historical perspective of the crater.”
QR codes link to the fifth graders' videos.
Students worked in groups to compile their thorough research into videos. Topics include how Leahi was formed, how ancient Hawaiians utilized Leahi, and the effect of invasive plants on the crater.
Artwork of native plants is also on display inside the kiosk. Fourth graders drew the different species hikers can find in the crater and the native plants that once grew there, but disappeared after invasive plants were introduced.
Artwork of the native plants of Leahi.
“Projects like this have lasting effects. It’s an opportunity for students to grow into stewards of our parks and natural resources and a way to teach others about some of what makes Hawaii special,” says Alan Carpenter, assistant administrator with State Parks division of the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Community connection
While the students’ newfound knowledge will educate visitors, it’s also made an impact on the kids.
“They’re connecting to the community where they live,” says Courtney Carpenter. “Before this project, half of them never stepped foot inside Leahi. But now, they know the cultural and historical importance of it. They know this is a special place.”
View from Diamond Head.
Exploring Hawaii
Our beautiful state is filled with hidden gems. For more fun places to visit, read below:
celebrating national park week
Explore majestic places and discover history and culture! Hawaii is home to eight national parks, including Haleakala National Park on Maui and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. We’re taking you on a tour of both parks and sharing what makes them unique.
hiking to beacons of light
Lighthouses mark dangerous, rocky coastlines and shallow waters, guiding boats and ships to safety. In Hawaii, there are 15 lighthouses associated with the U.S. Coast Guard. You can see two major ones on Oahu by taking a hike! Learn about the history of both Diamond Head and Makapuu Point.
lanai: relaxation and exercise on vacation
Take a quick trip to the gorgeous, secluded island of Lanai! Find out how it can help you relax and refresh while still staying active as you explore the untouched beauty that abounds.
plumeria paradise on oahu’s north shore
Renowned photographer Clark Little may be known for his incredible shorebreak shots, but he’s taken on a new outdoor adventure. Find out how Little Plumeria Farms is helping guests connect with the natural world through the beautiful flower closely associated with Hawaii.
