WAIMEA — Waimea High School teacher Branden Smith was awarded the 2024 Fall David Spalding Boynton Educational Grant of $2,000 on Thursday.
Smith’s project plan, “Engineering Environmental Ecological and Hawaiian Cultural Awareness on the West Side,” was selected for the grant because it fit the purpose and vision of the late David S. Boynton.
The vision includes awareness as it relates to conservation, protection and reservation of the unique environment of Hawaii and preference given to projects or programs involving the environment of Kauai.
The vision also includes children, who are taught to respect and nurture their environment and gain ecological literacy, and Hawaiian cultural values, such as malama, kokua, laulima, kuleana, lokahi and pono.
Integrating modern technology, such as 3D modeling, 3D printing and laser cutting, Smith’s Engineering students will be challenged to address critical problems specific to Kauai and its wilderness. The students will develop innovative solutions to local environmental issues while fostering ecological literacy and Hawaiian cultural awareness.
The David Spalding Boynton Educational Grant was established in memory of David S. Boynton and is administered by the Kokee Discovery Center Association.
Boynton was an educator, author, photographer and advocate for the protection of the environment in Hawaii, and more specifically, on Kauai. He served as the resource teacher for the Kokee Discovery Center from 1995 unyil 2007. In his position, he educated many about the natural treasures found in the native forest of our islands.
The purpose of the educational grant is to support educators and students with projects, programs and the vision that aligns with that of his life’s work.
The Kokee Discovery Center Association was incorporated in 1995 to help the Kokee Discovery Center programs by seeking funding and financial support for its educational curricula to enhance the awareness and appreciation of the native Hawaiian ecosystems.
The center is managed by the Kauai Department of Education with its continuing partnership with original founders and operational support from the Hauoli Mau Loa Foundation.
Each year, the center welcomes a variety of education based groups, including public, private and charter schools. Each year, more than 50 groups and well over 1,000 individuals experience the Kokee Discovery Center.
It has been nearly 30 years since the Kokee Discovery Center was built. KCPA recently completed much-needed improvements and upgrades of the buildings, the kitchen counters and cabinets, and upgrades of the flooring and shower stalls.
Donations and support for the center can be made to assist with continuous site maintenance and to provide a lasting educational experience to all the people who visit.
To make a tax deductible donation to support the center, please send donations to Kokee Discovery Center Association, P.O. Box 166, Lawa‘i, HI 96765 or contact at email kokeediscoverycenter@gmail.com.
