A passion for learning is not something we should need to inspire in our students; rather, it is what we must keep from being extinguished.  Human beings are by nature passionate, curious, intrigued, and will seek to connect, find patterns, and make sense of things. Learning is more effective when new information is made meaningful and linked to personal experience, prior knowledge, and what is often referred to as “real life.” There is also a direct connection between student engagement and inquiry-based learning.  When students learn how to evaluate, assess, and connect, information is transformed into knowledge.  And knowledge is only useful when it contributes to the communities in which we live.  The provision of applied educational experiences, including service learning, is imperative for the future of education, and for the development of teachers for the future.

We aspire to develop an educated citizen who:
• Acquires a depth and breadth of knowledge
• Develops the ability to communicate in multiple ways
• Learns to think critically
• Becomes acquainted with important methods of inquiry
• Secures lasting intellectual and cultural interests
• Gains self-knowledge
• Learns how to make informed judgments
• Becomes a competent and involved citizen
• Is involved on visual, verbal and auditory levels
• Understands that knowledge is essential for a responsible and fulfilling life

Thus, if the goal of our educational system is to create this “educated citizen” for a democratic society, then students must engage the community as well as their academic environments.  Manoa Partnerships will support projects that help students make a life, not just a living.