Requesting The Board Of Education And Department Of Education To Integrate The Documentary Film "waterman" Into Middle And Intermediate School Curriculum.
If adopted, HR124 could have significant implications for the curriculum taught in Hawaii's schools, aiming to strengthen students' self-perception, self-worth, and esteem through the lens of cultural appreciation and role modeling. By integrating the film, the educational system seeks to instill values of perseverance, teamwork, and aloha within students, which are foundational to Hawaiian identity. This proposed curriculum change highlights the importance of cultural relevance in education, potentially leading to more engaged and culturally aware students.
House Resolution 124 requests the Board of Education and Department of Education to integrate the documentary film 'Waterman' into the curriculum for middle and intermediate schools in Hawaii. The film showcases the life of Duke Kahanamoku, a celebrated figure in Hawaiian culture, known for his achievements in swimming and surfing, as well as his role as an ambassador of the Aloha spirit. The resolution emphasizes the need for today's youth to reconnect with their cultural heritage and values exemplified by historical figures like Kahanamoku, particularly in the context of the distractions posed by modern society including social media and substance use.
The sentiment surrounding HR124 appears to be largely positive, as evidenced by the enthusiastic reception of the documentary by legislators, community leaders, and educators. Proponents argue that this integration would provide a much-needed cultural touchstone for students, countering negative influences of contemporary distractions. However, there may also be concerns regarding implementation logistics and the balance of educational content with traditional curriculum requirements.
While the resolution is framed positively, its enactment could raise discussions about the prioritization of cultural education versus other educational content. Some educators might question the feasibility of integrating a film into the existing curriculum framework and whether sufficient resources will be available to support this initiative. Furthermore, there could be varying opinions on which values should be emphasized in schools and how best to address the needs of a diverse student population.