From Homelessness to Inspiring Educator: The Remarkable Journey of Isaiah Pule

Aloha Kākou!

We share the inspiring life story of Isaiah Pule, a remarkable individual who overcame significant challenges to become an influential teacher at Kamaile Academy.

Isaiah's journey begins in adversity, as he shares his experience of growing up in poverty, homelessness, and foster care. Despite these hardships, Isaiah's life took a transformative turn in high school when a dedicated teacher introduced him to the Polynesian Voyaging Society club, igniting his passion for his Hawaiian culture. Learning to sail with the society not only connected him with his roots but also changed the trajectory of his life.

Isaiah's pursuit of education led him to college, and after graduation he returned to Kamaile Academy as a Teach for America teacher, specializing in 4th-grade general education. He finds immense joy and fulfillment in witnessing the growth and learning of his students, reflecting on the impact of his own teachers who guided him to success.

Isaiah's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of education to break the cycle of adversity. He shares his belief that, despite facing daunting challenges, he was given a unique opportunity to learn from his life, and now he is dedicated to helping students facing similar struggles to overcome their circumstances.