Kamaile Academy Quick Build Mural Project: Updates & Next Steps

The Kamaile Academy Quick Build Mural Project is moving closer to installation! Since the project began, the planning team has worked with Kamaile Academy staff, students, community members, and local partners to create a safer, more welcoming route to school.

Following a January site visit to observe student travel patterns and traffic conditions, the team held a community listening session with school staff in March. Feedback from that session helped identify additional safety needs around Ala Akau Street, including No Left Turn signage to improve traffic flow and student safety.

Kamaile Academy selected local artist Kukui Mahoney, in collaboration with 808Urban, to lead the mural design. A Mo‘olelo Night gave students and staff the chance to share their stories and ideas directly with the artist. Their input shaped a conceptual design centered on growth, guidance, family, and the students’ journey through education.

The mural concept was presented to and approved by the Wai‘anae Neighborhood Board and the Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts (MOCA), marking an important milestone as the project moves toward installation.

The design features several meaningful elements:

• On the residential side of the street (top), kalo represents family, kūpuna, and ancestral connection, reminding the students that their kūpuna are always watching over, guiding, and supporting them.
• ʻIlima flowers symbolize the blossoming of the students, celebrating each one’s beauty, potential, growth, and light.
• On the school side of the street (bottom), the ʻiwa bird and Kaiona’s rainbow represent navigation, guidance, protection, and direction, reminding students that they never walk alone.
• A waʻa moving toward the school represents the students’ journey into learning, moving forward with purpose and the support of their school, family, and community.

The project is now entering its final planning stages. Stay tuned for mural installation dates and volunteer opportunities to help bring the design to life! Following the installation, the project team will host a Walk to School Day to celebrate the new mural and the ongoing efforts to improve safety around Kamaile Academy.

For updates about this project, contact Oʻahu HEAL Coordinator Leigh Ann Lopez at leighann@hiphi.org.