Aloha Notes: My career as a School Psychologist in Hawaii

SELF STIMULATING BEHAVIORS AT SCHOOL.  Underwear Matters.  Trust me on this.  Over the past couple years, I have had numerous teachers shyly approach me for consultation, looking for strategies on for their students who are engaging in "self-stimulation" during class, at school, and even on field-trips. In one case, just finding the appropriate pair of underwear solved the problem. Basketball shorts and no underwear was not working out so well... but once discussed, it was a trail and error and a simple fix.  Many times, the teachers biggest concern is how to discuss the problem with the parent. Sometimes the behavior is suspected but not as obvious... But it is always better to have a conversation with the parent as soon as possible. To ignore the issue can be extremely problematic and can create habits that later will be difficult to break.  I think it is important to be mindful of parents cultures when bringing up the topic with them. Initially, it'...

Aloha! As many of you know, HASP board members have been busy finding ways to promote School Psychologists throughout the state. Part of that battle is bringing awareness to the community and key members in Hawaii government. This article, found on the Civil Beat website, is a great outline of the Hawaii State Government structure. Enjoy! <3 Kels Hawaii State Government Hawaii’s governing structure has evolved from disconnected tribes to a monarchy to a republic to a U.S. territory to a state. During World War II, it was also under martial law. That evolution can be traced through a series of governing documents and key events. Constitutions The first version of Hawaii’s constitution was enacted by Kamehameha III for the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1840. It organized the government and its functions as a constitutional monarchy with a ruling king and democratic principles such as a bicameral legislature with a House of Nobles and a House of Representatives. Twelve years later, prompted b...