Hawaiian-focused charter schools were established to nurture the well-being of Native Hawaiian children through educational models that reflect and embrace Hawaiian cultural values and practices. A foundational tenet of Hawaiian culture is that knowledge is acquired from ancestors, both living and deceased. Mo‘okū‘auhau establishes ancestral connections and defines Hawaiian identity, providing a place of belonging and a strengthened sense of self. This thesis investigates the role of mo‘okū‘auhau in shaping the identity and well-being of students at Kanu o ka ‘Āina New Century Public Charter School. Utilizing a Kanaka ‘Ōiwi research paradigm, the study explores how cultural practices embedded in the school’s curriculum, particularly those centered around mo‘okū‘auhau, contribute to students’ sense of belonging, cultural continuity, and personal resilience. Through qualitative analysis of participant narratives, this research examines the impact of these educational practices on various learner outcomes, including those defined by the Education with Aloha pedagogy, the Nā Hopena A‘o (HĀ) outcomes framework, and Kanu o ka ‘Āina’s specific learner outcomes. The findings reveal that learning mo‘okū‘auhau significantly enhances students’ cultural identity and fosters a deep connection to ‘ohana and ‘āina, which in turn supports their emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. The research highlights the importance of culturally grounded education in decolonizing learning spaces and reinforcing Indigenous knowledge systems. This thesis contributes to the broader discourse on Hawaiian culture-based education by demonstrating the long-term impact of mo‘okū‘auhau on individual and community resilience. It advocates for the broader implementation of culture-based curricula in educational systems, emphasizing the role of Indigenous methodologies in achieving holistic educational outcomes. The research underscores the value of maintaining cultural practices in modern educational contexts, offering insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers committed to supporting Indigenous education and identity development.

Keywords: mo‘okū‘auhau, Hawaiian-focused, charter school, Hawaiian culture-based education, Indigenous methodology