Pacifika Education

E vave taunu’u le malaga pe a tatou alo va’a fa’atasi

Our destiny is within sight when we paddle our canoe together

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Key points​

• What’s good for Pasifika students is good for all students

• Relationships are key. They provide the basis for trust

• Pasifika students have a rich culture that has many traditions. Consistently ensure that the students can bring who they are into the classroom - not just during language week

• Know the student. Know their name, where it came from, and who gave it to them. 

• The name of the student is very important. Honor it. Pronounce it correctly. If you are unsure, ask the student.

• There is a myth that Pasifika students don’t like to make eye contact. Please provide eye contact but ensure that the student knows the meaning behind it

• Pull in the ‘secure’ people you need to support the student. For example, this could be Nan

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Links to dig deeper

• Ulingaholo

• Digital Resources

• Episode 11: The student-teacher relationship is the key to success

Acknowledgments

Kathie Matamua- Interviewee

Ve Grant-Lawlor- Interviewer, host, recording, music, editing, and publishing

Corrinne Devitt- Scripting, co-host, and summary notes