Damien Students Recognized in 16th Annual Clarence T.C. Ching Inspired in Hawaii Contest
Our middle school winners with their English teacher, Mrs. Pai.
(Front row: Koen, Rhythm, Aegean. Back row: Jayden, Mrs. Pai, Vielle, Caroline, and Rhayne)
Damien Memorial School is proud to celebrate our middle school students who were recognized in the 16th Annual Inspired in Hawaii Contest, sponsored by the Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation.
This year’s theme, “What Makes Hawaii Special,” invited students across the state to reflect through essays, posters, digital media, and video submissions. Mrs. Gayle Pai’s students have participated in the essay portion of this contest annually since 2014, and this year our 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Monarchs once again demonstrated excellence.
Out of more than 1,300 entrants statewide, Damien students earned an impressive seven winning placements.
Each winner received a certificate of participation, a copy of A Prophecy Fulfilled: The Story of Clarence T.C. Ching, and a monetary award:
1st Place: $200
2nd Place: $150
3rd Place: $100
6th Grade Winners
1st Place: Viella Capuz - More Than a Greeting
2nd Place: Jayden Casallo - The Unique Charm of Hawaiʻi
3rd Place: Aegean Ramos - Hawaiʻiʻs Gems of Life
7th Grade Winners
2nd Place: Koen Maika‘i - The History that Built Hawaiʻi
3rd Place: Rhythm Coloma - In the Middle of the Ocean
8th Grade Winners
2nd Place: Caroline Porras - Unique Social Customs of Hawaiʻi
3rd Place: Rhayne Amaya Ramos - Landmark Treasures of Hawaiʻi
We are incredibly proud of these students for sharing their voices and honoring what makes Hawai‘i unique and special. Their achievements reflect not only their talent and dedication, but also Damien’s commitment to nurturing thoughtful, articulate, and community-minded young leaders.
Congratulations to all of our winners!
