Ka‘a‘awa Fun Run/Walk: Big Effort Ahead For Little School

Families and supporters of Ka‘a‘awa Elementary School sign up for last year’s fundraising family fun run/walk at Kualoa Ranch. Photo from Michele Pouvave.

Tiny Ka’a’awa Elementary School is ready to rumble, or at least move swiftly, for its fourth annual Ocean Warrior 5K Family Fun Run/Walk.

Set for 8 a.m. April 27 at Kualoa Ranch (starting a the valley’s surf spot entrance), the race aims to restore the $14,000 yearly budget for the school’s parent-community networking center.

“It’s a 17-hour-a-week position that does so much more for love,” explained Michele Pouvave, who has worked in that capacity for nearly two decades at Ka’a’awa, which has 123 students. Like other PCNCs in public schools, she works long and hard to generate interest, support and activities that bring the school and its neighbors together.

“We are a small community with really nothing happening close by,” Pouvave added. “PCNC family night activities and schoolwide functions are so important. PCNCs are the heart between school, community and families.”

Entry fee is $25, and check-in starts at 7 that morning. To register, call 237-7757, email kaaawapcnc@gmail.com or visit active.com. Children must be accompanied by an adult; pets also are welcome on the run/walk, which follows a level, scenic route familiar to movie fans worldwide.

“We encourage everyone to participate,” said ranch president John Morgan. “Not only does the race feature spectacular views, it’s a great opportunity for families to come together in support of the school. With all of the recent budget cuts, it’s important for the community to do what we can to keep vital education programs in place.”