SORREN LUGO
STAFF WRITER
Every summer, students involved in the summer school Marine Science program at Moanalua have the opportunity to take a trip to Molokai sponsored by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council (WestPac). WestPac is an organization that creates the fishing laws in Hawaii. The summer programs purpose is to reach out to students of Oahu and teach them about the fishing management and conservation laws in Hawaii. This past summer, eight students were given the opportunity to experience the island of Molokai, where they learned about agriculture, fishing, and the general lifestyle of the people of Molokai.
Th students stayed in Molokai for three days and four nights, giving them the opportunity to learn about the differences between good and bad fishing, how to properly cut a fish, and went to fish markets. It was very hands-on, but they also had lectures about the physical statistics of how the fishing and management of conservation affects the Hawaii. One of the students who went on the trip, senior Kanoe Anuhea was able to experience eating a fish she caught and dissected herself, which made her more grateful for the fresh fish she eats being a pescatarian.
“It made me really thankful to know that fish that I came from is fresh and healthy,” Anuhea said.
Moanalua was not the only school who participated in the program. Students from Kaiser High School, Aiea High School, Pearl City High School, and Saint Francis School were also able to take part in the trip.
Marine Science teacher, Erron Yoshioka’s involvement in a teacher education program got him into the WestPac organization. Connections with a board member of the program itself gives the students of Moanalua an opportunity that many schools don't provide. Students from other schools take part in Moanalua’s summer school Marine Science class to have an opportunity to experience what the program of WestPac offers for students.
Living on an island, we rely on the ocean as a source of life. Westpac and everyone who supports the community creating and informing rules to protect and encourage local students to get involved.
“We need to get our students aware and maybe one day take action and give interest,” said Yoshioka.
