Hui for Excellence in Education, or “HE‘E,” is a statewide coalition of diverse stakeholders committed to working collaboratively to identify opportunities to improve public education in Hawai‘i. HE‘E seeks to be the focal point for community and parent engagement while serving as a public resource for educational policy.
HE‘E was formed in May 2010 by parents and community members who stood up and said “no” to school furloughs and “yes” to re-establishing education as a public priority.
He Moku, He Wa’a, He Moku
Hawai‘i’s application for the Race to the Top cited the metaphor of a canoe with paddlers working together toward education reform. The motto, “He Moku, He Wa’a, He Moku,” or “an island, a canoe; a canoe, an island” was used to suggest that educational transformation can only be accomplished collaboratively. HE‘E stands ready to support and represent parents and the greater community as paddlers in our canoe.
We invite you to join in our collaborative effort for public education transformation.
For more information, please contact Deborah Bond-Upson, Interim Director, at Director@HEEcoalition.org or use the contact form.
HE‘E is funded by The Learning Coalition..
October 23, 2025: Alice Luck Appointed as Coalition Director of the Hui for Excellence in Education!
After a comprehensive search, the Board of Directors of The Learning Coalition (TLC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Alice Luck as Coalition Director of the Hui for Excellence in Education (HEʻE), effective January 1, 2026.
Alice Luck joins HEʻE with over 12 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit and community development sector, most recently serving as President and CEO at Kauaʻi Planning and Action Alliance. In that role, she led collective impact initiatives through Keiki to Career Kauaʻi, expanded early childhood and family engagement programs, and strengthened partnerships across the island and with state agencies. Her proven record of fostering collaboration across diverse stakeholders and her deep commitment to Hawaiʻi’s public education system make her an exceptional fit to lead HEʻE into its next phase.
The Board extends its heartfelt gratitude to Deborah Bond Upson, who has served with distinction as Interim Director during this period of transition. Her steady leadership, thoughtful guidance, and commitment to collaboration provided continuity and stability as HEʻE prepared for this next chapter. “Deborah’s stewardship has been invaluable to our organization,” said Debbie Berger, TLC Board Chair. “We are deeply appreciative of her dedication and service.”
Over the coming weeks, Luck will meet with members, partners, and community stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and to continue advancing HEʻE’s mission. “I’m honored to join HEʻE and work alongside such passionate advocates for Hawaiʻi’s students,” said Luck. “Together, we will continue building bridges between families, educators, and communities to strengthen public education for all.”