Order your school uniforms for SY2026-27!
He ʻike ʻana ia i ka pono
It is a recognizing of the right thing.
[One has seen the right thing to do and has done it.]
Deep in Thought...
Born and raised right here on the Big Island in Pāhoa, I am deeply committed to serving our island community. My educational journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UH Hilo and a Master’s degree in Education, Research, and Leadership from UH Mānoa.
Since 2005, I have had the privilege of working across the Keaʻau-Ka'ū -Pāhoa complex area in many roles—starting as an educational assistant and substitute teacher, then teaching Community-Based Instruction and Work-Based Learning at Keaʻau High School. Before stepping into school leadership, I spent four years as a District Resource Teacher for Autism, supporting students and families across the complex. Most recently, I stepped into administration as the TA Vice Principal at Ka'ū High and Pāhala Elementary School.
I am thrilled to bring this background to my role as TA Vice Principal at Kea’au Elementary School. I firmly believe in teaching the whole student, ensuring they have the tools to succeed both in school and throughout their lives.
Håfa Adai and Aloha!
My name is Ku'ulei Pablo, and I am honored to join your school as the new Temporary Assigned Vice Principal. Originally from Guam, my Chamoru roots have instilled in me the importance of community, respect, and service—values that continue to guide me as an educator and leader. I bring ten years of experience in education, including eight years as an elementary classroom teacher and two years serving as the Temporary Assigned Vice Principal at Nā‘ālehu Elementary School. I believe every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and inspired to succeed, and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with our students, families, and staff as we learn and grow together.
Si Yu'us Ma'åse' and Mahalo
Aloha Mai Kākou! Kumusta kadakayo amin!
I am absolutely thrilled to be serving as TA Vice Principal this school year. I am deeply rooted in this community. Being raised and still living in Kea’au, it is an honor to be able to give back to the community that shaped me. My educational journey also includes Waiākea High School and University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. I have been teaching since 2014 in Grades 4 and 5. I’ve held other roles such as serving as the Literacy Lead (under the Comprehensive Literacy State Development/CLSD grant) and most recently, as an academic coach for Grade 5.
Over my years in education, my core belief has remained unchanged, all students can learn and thrive when they are given the right opportunity, support, and guidance.
I am looking forward to partnering with our dedicated staff and ‘ohana to ensure every student has what they need to succeed.
School Security
I was born in Hilo, and raised in Kalapana. Growing up, all we did was farm and fish. Fishing was plentiful, but we would only gather enough to eat or share with the community. Other than that, Kalapana was one of the prime surfing spots here on the Big Island. I thought I was going to be a professional surfer, but instead I decided to serve my country. I attended Pahoa High and Elementary School and served in the Army soon after graduation. After 4 years of service, I returned home where I met my wife in 1993. We’ve been blessed with two boys age 19 and 12 presently.
My employment here at Keaʻau Elementary began in January of 2000, where I started as an adult supervisor and Part Time Teacher teaching fifth grade remedial math. In 2009, I was hired as the school security attendant when the position was created. I enjoyed working with students and the added challenge of dealing with school safety, drills, inspections, and overseeing the JPOs and Mediators, back when we had them. I've also been creating the school’s annual yearbook, starting with 1999- 2000 edition. I’ve met a lot of good people and developed good relationships with a lot of families throughout the years here at Keaʻau, which is why I've been so committed to keeping this school safe.
During my free time I like to go to the beach, catch a movie at the theaters, or spend time with my family at home. I love to cook, draw, create art, listen to music, watch Netflix, or watch football.