HŌ'Ā - Hawai'i Open Arts
Welcome!
HŌ‘Ā (Hawai'i Open Arts) is an ‘āina-based arts program that helps students develop emotional well-being & a sense of place through immersive arts & mālama ‘āina experiences.
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HŌ'Ā Program
Learn more about the HŌ'Ā Program’s goals, pedagogical approach, and sessions
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School Application
Learn more about the requirements for schools that wish to participate in the HŌ‘Ā program
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Our Story
Learn more about the partnerships behind the HŌ‘Ā program
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Testimonials
Hear from teachers and students about their experiences with the HŌʻĀ program.
What We’re About
The work of the HŌ‘Ā program aligns closely with the vision of Nā Hopena Aʻo (HĀ), which recognizes that education in Hawai‘i must develop the whole child by fostering belonging, responsibility, excellence, aloha, total well-being, and Hawai‘i. Through arts integration, place-based experiences, and authentic community engagement. The HŌ‘Ā program helps students build meaningful connections to culture, identity, and place while strengthening essential academic and social-emotional skills.
“As a teacher, I could not have created this experience for my students without the HŌ‘Ā Program. It enabled me to dive deeply into project-based learning and provide hands-on experiences. It gave me the opportunity to provide ‘āina -based learning to our students. I learned as an educator, and as a resident of this land. Every time we gathered to plan and share, I learned more about the ‘āina, culture, the forest, and the students. I became a better teacher.”
- 3rd Grade Teacher, Kona Moku, Hawai‘i