Educational PHILOSOPHY

We hold the Bible as the ultimate rule of faith and conscience.

And therefore utilize its principles in establishing the educational environment at Mauna Loa Preschool.

Mauna Loa Preschool provides a stimulating learning environment for growing pre-elementary children in a warm and loving Christian atmosphere. Our program is designed to help children become captivated with learning by cultivating their natural abilities.

We teach early concepts with educational materials in a supportive, hands-on environment. Individual and group development takes place by exploring and working together in a multi-age classroom where collaboration between your home and our school is encouraged.

Our lesson plans and activities are developmentally appropriate with the intention of bringing the child closer to Christ, and to fully prepare them academically, laying the groundwork for the next steps in their education.

Head Teacher

I am thrilled to reintroduce myself as Teacher Denise, and I am excited to be back in the preschool classroom! My professional journey has been quite diverse, encompassing roles as a Certified Nurses Aide (CNA), a food service professional in private academies, and, of course, as a preschool teacher. I’ve taken classes in the Early Childhood Education program at Pacific Union college for two years and am PATCH certified.

In the past, I’ve had the opportunity to work at Mauna Loa School in various capacities: as a janitor, a substitute teacher, and the Home and School leader. For those of you who have navigated multiple roles and responsibilities, you will likely resonate with my journey. Wearing many hats has given me a comprehensive view of how different roles intersect and support the overarching goal of fostering growth and learning in children.

I am particularly excited to see the growth in each child and to see the pure joy of them learning something new and valuable. I also value the relationships with parents, recognizing the importance of collaboration in each child’s developmental journey.

Spiritual and Moral

Focuses on creating an awareness and love of God, respect for creation, and encouraging good health habits and manners.

Personal and Social

Emphasizes individuality, positive self-esteem, self-control, self-discipline, and fostering personal self-identity.

Cognitive and Creative

Encourages exploration, learning, creativity, and problem-solving through developmentally appropriate activities.

Decision-Making and Problem-Solving

Provides freedom of choice within reasonable limits and encourages decision-making and problem-solving skills.

Vision

At Mauna Loa Preschool, our vision is for every child to excel in faith and learning, blending biblical truth and academic achievement to honor God and bless others, embarking on an ongoing Journey with Jesus.

Mission

The mission of Mauna Loa Preschool is to provide opportunities for children to learn about God and Jesus Christ as their Savior in a loving, caring, and intellectually stimulating environment.

Meet the STAFF

Christ-loving, Dedicated and Professionally Qualified

Staff Qualifications

All ECE teachers meet or exceed the Department of Human Services preschool education criteria for licensing in the State of Hawaii. The teachers hold a Child Development Associate Credential or equivalent, along with other required Early Childhood Education courses. The director(s), teacher(s) and teacher’s aide(s) are required to complete professional growth activities each year. All the staff have experience working with children in a supervised program and are aware of the goals and mission of MLP and the beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

What parents say

Mauna Loa Preschool has been a wonderful place for our child to learn and grow. The caring and experienced staff create a nurturing environment, and we love the focus on Christian values. Our child looks forward to going to school every day!

Ramona Alico

Your Second Ohana

Providing a balanced Christian education that promotes character development.