Question #1: What school were you teaching at before coming to Waiakea? How long have you been teaching for? 

“This is my first year as an official teacher,” Ms. Nakano stated, “but I was student taught here at Waiakea last year.” 

Question #2: Have you always been a math or high school teacher? 

“I just started teaching but I’ve been a math tutor at the resource room, UH Hilo, and UH Manoa. Honestly, I haven’t always wanted to be a teacher but teaching gives me a chance to explore my academic projects, be in Hilo with my family, have a stable career, give back to my community, and make a difference in people’s lives.” Very well spoken Ms. Nakano!

Question #3: Where did you go to school/college?

“I graduated from Waiakea High School and started my college journey at UH Hilo,” Ms. Nakano stated, “After 2 years, I transferred to UH Manoa with my bachelors in computer science and minor in mathematics.” 

Question #4: Do you have a unique approach to teaching Math? Fun games and strategies? 

“During my student teaching year, Mr. Waters and Mrs Wilburn introduced me to the building-thinking classroom model. It completely changed my perspective on teaching and I’m now following in their steps. This method utilizes our white board, making students critically think about math concepts rather than passively listen and copy what the teacher says and does,” Ms. Nakano exclaimed.

Question #5: What brought you to Waiakea High School?

“Waikea High School is near and dear to my heart! As an alumni, I loved my experience at Waiakea, and it allowed me to grow so much as a person. Our faculty, staff, and administrators are amazing and I’m so fortunate to be working here!” Aww very well said Ms. Nakano!

Question #6: In your free time, what are some of your favorite hobbies, interests, pastimes or TV shows?

“On the weekends, I love to hang out with my family, especially playing tennis. I also like to bake and watch various movies/TV shows with my family and partner,” The weekends are the best!

Question #7: What are you most looking forward to this year, and so far how are you liking your students?

“I love all of my students, each and everyone of them add so much value to our class and all of my classes have a fun energy! I’m looking forward to having fun and learning alongside my students and fellow peers. I’m also looking forward to earning my Masters in my Teaching degree in May” Way to go Ms. Nakano!

Thank you for taking the time to give us these amazing responses Ms. Nakano!