It is an honor to receive the prestigious Presidential Award. For me, the award acknowledges the energy I have dedicated to education, and supports my belief in providing all students with relevant, hands-on learning and self-reflection. It is an avenue for me to network and share ideas with others, while appreciating all the people who have played an important role in my life. I am truly blessed to have supportive family, friends, and school community. I honor and share this award with them.

Dave Morishige Mililani, HI | K-6, Science, 2012

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Dave Morishige has taught for more than 23 years and has spent the last 7 years teaching science at Mililani Mauka Elementary School. Previously, he taught at Heeia Elementary School and Mililani Ike Elementary School. Dave teaches all students from junior kindergarten to fifth grade. His hands-on lessons help students understand concepts and meet standards. He also models lessons and works with teachers on the science curriculum. Dave partnered with university doctoral candidates to help parents and students gain a better understanding of the marine ecosystem during an annual reef walk activity, which he organizes. He arranged for guest speakers from NASA, the Hawaiian Astronomical Society, and the Hawaii Space Grant Consortium to work with the school community. He also coordinated the Hawaiian Electric Company’s Home Energy Challenge to help his school win $10,000.  He has been awarded several grants. Dave formed the school's Lego Robotics Club and the Underwater Robotics Club, both have won awards at the state level. He is a Science Club advisor.  He was a Central District Science Fair judge for the past 3 years. Dave has also served as a member of the Hawaii Science Content Panel Committee. Dave has a B.Ed., with distinction, and an M.Ed., both in elementary education, from the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. He is a certified elementary school teacher and is certified in elementary curriculum.

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