Paoakalani Hula School

In 2011, Kalani Paoakalani Hiapo received 'ūniki rites in hula from Kimo Alama Keaulana, specializing in various hula forms. Today, he serves as the esteemed kumu hula of Paoakalani Hula Hālau on O‘ahu.

 

Kalani's educational journey began as a Hawaiian Studies teacher at Kanoelani Elementary School, where he pioneered the school's first Performing Arts Program. His innovative curriculum integrated Music, Dance, and Theatre.

 

Recognized for his talents, Kalani won 1st place in the Ka ‘Umeke Ka‘eo Native Hawaiian Writing contest for three consecutive years, with publications by Leeward Community College.

 

Later, he became an Educational Program Coordinator with Kamehameha Schools, empowering native Hawaiian youth with programs focusing on their home districts.

 

Currently, Kalani is a kumu hula at Ka Waihona o ka Na'auao Public Charter School, bridging hula with academia. He's also the founder of Ho‘oulu ‘Ike, an enrichment program sharing hula's teachings, traditions, and philosophies.

 

Kalani Hiapo's warmth, humor, deep knowledge, and fearless stage presence exemplify hula's thriving legacy.