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Dr. Solomon from Waianae, HI is requesting instructional technology through DonorsChoose, the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.

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Hoʻōla Hana Noʻeau: Revitalizing Hawaiian Innovation Through Laser-Cut Art

Help me give my students Laser Cutter and Engraver Kit that are versatile, user-friendly machine designed for educational and creative use.

  • $861 goal

This project expired on September 7, 2025.

This project expired on September 7, 2025.

My Project

Our classroom project, "Hoʻōla Hana Noʻeau," meaning “Revitalizing Hawaiian Innovation,” combines traditional Hawaiian artistry with modern technology using a laser cutter and engraver kit. This project honors the beauty and ingenuity of our kūpuna (ancestors) by recreating and innovating traditional Hawaiian graphic motifs such as kapa designs, ʻohe kāpala (bamboo stamps), and natural patterns inspired by laʻau (plants), moana (ocean), and manu (birds).

Using the laser cutter, students will design and create custom kāpala (stamps) that reflect Hawaiian values, symbols, and patterns.

These tools will then be used in hands-on kapa making activities—printing on cloth, paper, or other natural materials—to tell personal and cultural stories. Students will learn how ancient techniques of repetition, symmetry, and symbolism can come alive through 21st-century tools.

What excites me most about this project is the way it blends culture and creativity. My students are incredibly curious, expressive, and full of imagination. They come from diverse backgrounds, and many are deeply connected to their Hawaiian identity or are eager to learn more. I love how each of them brings a unique perspective to their work—some are storytellers, others are visual thinkers, and many are proud to create with their hands.

The laser cutter is more than just a machine—it’s a portal for students to connect with Hawaiian heritage through their own lens. It empowers them to create with precision, to take pride in craftsmanship, and to see their ideas materialize in tangible, meaningful ways. It also introduces them to real-world technology used in fields like design, engineering, and entrepreneurship, broadening their future possibilities.

This project invites students to innovate while honoring tradition. It’s a journey of hoʻoulu—to grow, to inspire, and to give life to ʻike kūpuna (ancestral knowledge) in new and exciting ways.

Dr. Solomon Nanaikapono Elementary School Grades 3-5

Equity Focus

This project directly supports students at a historically underfunded school. Learn more about our Equity Focus.

This project will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

Waianae, HI View local requests

More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more

98 students impacted

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Where Your Donation Goes

Where your donation goes
Materials Cost Quantity Total
Creality 10W Laser Engraver, Falcon Pro with 3-in-1 Laser for Wood Engraving, 72W Efficient Laser Engraving Machine Fit, for Wood, Metal, Paper, Acrylic, Leather, Glass Tumbler Ring, 17" x 16" • Amazon Business $455.00 1 $455.00
Creality Honeycomb Laser Bed, Honeycomb Platform with Aluminum Panel for Laser Engraver and Cutter Machine, 19.7" * 19.7" • Amazon Business $76.47 1 $76.47
Creality Enclosure for Laser Engraver,Laser Engraving Machine Protective Cover with Eye Protection, Insulates Against Fumes and Odors for Laser Cutting Enclosure Tent • Amazon Business $56.99 1 $56.99
24 Pack 12"x12"Basswood Sheets 1/8",3mm Basswood for Laser Cutting,3mm Plywood Unfinished Wood Craft Wood for DIY Ornaments and Models Drawing Painting Engraving Wood Burning and Laser Cutting • Amazon Business $25.99 1 $25.99
Creality Falcon Extra Risers for Laser Engraver 5W, 10W, 12 Pcs Support Column Increase 6" Hight for Engraving Machine(Extra Risers) • Amazon Business $24.99 1 $24.99
ROBOTIME 6Pcs 3mm Walnut Plywood for Laser Cutting, 1/8 Plywood Crafting Wood 12"x12", Engraving and DIY Projects, Thin Walnut Boards for Wood Project and Engraving • Amazon Business $22.59 1 $22.59

Materials cost

$662.03

Vendor shipping charges

 FREE

Sales tax

 $29.13

3rd party payment processing fee

$9.93

Fulfillment labor & materials

$30.00

Total project cost

$731.09

Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms

$129.02

Total project goal

$860.11

Our team works hard to negotiate the best pricing and selections available.

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