Kadena Elementary School receives the “Key to Okinawa” for exemplary community partnership
Kadena Elementary School is celebrating the honor of being awarded the “Key to Okinawa” by Help Oki, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families and strengthening community connections across the island. This award recognizes the long‑standing partnership built on a shared commitment to kindness, one of Kadena Elementary School’s Core Values.
Kadena Elementary School students, staff, and families have worked hand‑in‑hand with Help Oki to support a variety of community needs. Through collection drives including canned food, toy, personal hygiene, cereal, and clothing the school has contributed thousands of essential items to families across Okinawa. Each drive has displayed what it means for students to not only learn about kindness, but to practice it in meaningful ways. The KDES Student Innovators lead the charge in advertising and collecting the donations.
“Through participating in the drives, students learn the value of giving and understand how their actions can directly support others,” shared Dr. Jacqueline Winn, school counselor. “These experiences help them develop a sense of responsibility, compassion, and global citizenship.”
One of the most impactful aspects of this partnership is how it connects students living overseas to the community around them.
“Getting the award means a lot because it shows us how many people we are able to reach and provide them with the help they do not have,” said third grade student Jackson Anza.
The award from Help Oki acknowledges the collective spirit of our students, families, and staff who make kindness a lived experience within our school community.
“Receiving the Key to Okinawa is a symbol of unity between Kadena Elementary School and our Okinawan community partners,” said Dr. Jennifer Boyles, assistant principal. “We are immensely proud of earning such a distinguished recognition, and even more proud of our students, whose hands‑on service and caring hearts continue to make a difference across the island.”
