With the new school year underway, many students are juggling emotional, financial, academic, and even physical challenges. These struggles are common, but they can become overwhelming. Because of this, the staff at Nānākuli High and Intermediate School continues to work hard to support students who are dealing with hate or acting out from their own hurt.
Hate on campus can start from many places. Teenagers often deal with jealousy, friendship issues, family problems, fear, and past trauma. When these feelings build up, some students cope by criticizing or putting down others. NHIS security guards Uncle Shane and Coach Ray, who is also the head coach of the wrestling team, see this often.
“I also feel that when you talk about hate or when a lot of people are hurt, they tend to project it on other people to make them feel better,” they said.
This is where the staff steps in. NHIS has several systems to support students in difficult moments. Ninth-grade assistant principal Joey Cruzata explained how the school responds when issues are reported.
“Each situation is investigated, parents are notified, and students are given support and guidance. Our goal is to help them learn from mistakes and make better choices,” he said.
Uncle Shane and Coach Ray added, “When someone reports bullying, we take it seriously and investigate it thoroughly.”
Support also extends to the classroom. Principal Christine Udarbe encourages teachers to help students build empathy and handle conflicts in healthier ways.
“Teachers can also use classroom discussions and activities to help students build empathy and learn how to resolve conflicts peacefully,” she said.
However, not all students feel the system is perfect. Some juniors shared that they do not always feel the staff handles situations effectively. They explained that the school sometimes involves too many outside students who are only witnesses, rather than focusing on the main people involved.
“Don’t have other people who are not the main problem involved. They think they’re getting others’ opinions, but you’re getting kids involved,” one junior said.
As the school works to improve, NHIS continues efforts to uplift students. Shine days allow staff and volunteers to hold posters at the entrance in the morning to greet students with positive messages. According to one parent, simple actions like this help students feel supported and cared for.
In the end, NHIS remains committed to addressing hate and promoting a safe campus. While the school continues to grow and work with the community, students also play a role in speaking up and standing against harmful behavior. NHIS continues to send a clear message that bullying and hate will not be accepted and that anyone struggling will be offered help, understanding, and support.
