Mark Kahalekuiinaihe Pacarro ("Papa Mark")
Mark Kahalekuiinaihe Pacarro, affectionately known as "Papa Mark," is a dedicated educator, coach, and community leader from Kāneʻohe, Hawaiʻi. Born in May 1964, Mark has spent over 30 years impacting the lives of students, athletes, and the broader community with a deep commitment to preserving and sharing Hawaiian culture. His work as a Hawaiian language teacher, basketball coach, and environmental educator has earned him widespread respect as both a teacher and a mentor. Mark's career spans his time as an educator at Kamehameha Schools and the Hawaiʻi Department of Education, where he taught Hawaiian Language, Social Studies, and Malama ʻĀina (Environmental Stewardship) to high school and middle school students. With over 25 years of experience in Hawaiian language instruction, he played a pivotal role in preserving the language and passing on the cultural traditions of Hawaiʻi to future generations. As a basketball coach for over 40 years, Mark earned the prestigious Coach of the Year award in 1999. His leadership both on and off the court, emphasized teamwork, discipline, and integrity, instilling important life values in his athletes. Mark also earned a Master’s in Curriculum Design with a focus on Aloha ʻĀina Education from the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, and he continues coaching golf, guiding young athletes in both technical skills and life lessons. Mark’s passion for Hawaiian history and culture extends beyond the classroom. He has traveled to the British National Archives and Windsor Archives to study primary source documents related to the Hawaiian Kingdom, gaining valuable insights into diplomatic relationships between the Hawaiian Kingdom and the British Empire. This research has enriched his teaching, allowing him to share first-hand historical knowledge with his students. Outside of his professional work, Mark is a fisherman, kalo (taro) farmer, grandfather, and golfer. He is deeply connected to the land and passionate about sustainable farming practices. As a kalo farmer, Mark works to preserve the agricultural traditions of Hawaii, particularly the cultivation of taro, which holds deep cultural significance. He loves sharing the joy of growing food with youth, teaching them about sustainability and self-sufficiency. An avid cook, Mark enjoys preparing meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. His cooking goes beyond nourishment; it’s an opportunity to pass on the cultural traditions associated with Hawaiian cuisine. Whether teaching students how to grow food, coaching young athletes, or preparing a meal, Mark’s legacy is one of deep respect for Aloha ʻĀina, the land, and his community. Mark's impact continues to resonate through the generations, as he has left an indelible mark on the lives of those he has mentored, both in the classroom and beyond.
Mission Statement:
"I am committed to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Hawaiian culture through education, mentorship, and sustainable practices. With a focus on Hawaiian language, history, environmental stewardship (Aloha ʻĀina), and youth development, my mission is to empower the next generation to connect deeply with their cultural roots, value the land, and live with purpose. Through teaching, farming, coaching, and community engagement, I aim to inspire personal growth, responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to both cultural heritage and sustainability.”
