At the Kahoʻiwai Center for Adult Teaching and Learning, student success is measured across a series of values that develop teacher disposition and set a foundation for success and achievement. The main thesis of this work argues that integrating ʻāina-centered pedagogy and Hawaiian cultural values fosters holistic student success and character development by enhancing personal growth, community responsibility, and educational achievement. Hana noʻeau as a methodology is an expression of cultural artistry that grounds research in reflection and consideration for the well-being of the students, research participants, and researcher. Research methods include moʻokiʻi (PhotoStory or Photovoice) and moʻolelo (Personal Interviews). Participant data is analyzed and captured through verse and poetry, highlighting the impact of seven values on their success as learners. These values are aloha (love), lōkahi (unity), kuleana (responsibility), kōkua (support), mahalo (gratitude), kūlia (to strive), and pono (prosperity). Research findings express the significance of culturally responsive teaching frameworks, honoring Indigenous epistemologies and offering a model for enhancing educational outcomes in educational communities. Findings are expressed through the contributions of each Kauhale value towards character development, ʻāina-centered education, and designing educational frameworks. This research contributes to educational and Indigenous academic fields and inspires and honors generations of learners to find their strengths through values, ʻāina, ʻohana, and community.

Keywords: ʻĀina, Teacher, Education, Native, Indigenous, Kānaka ʻŌiwi, Values, Moʻolelo, PhotoStory, character development, student success