3. Living in Pilina
QUADRANT 3 (ʻEKOLU)
Kuleana • Community • Stewardship
A healthy learning community is built not only through shared knowledge, but through shared responsibility. Every interaction is an opportunity to practice aloha, strengthen pilina, and contribute to an environment where everyone can learn, grow, and flourish together.
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Living in Community
Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha is a community built upon mutual respect, trust, and shared responsibility.
Every haumāna contributes to the culture of our pā through their words, actions, preparation, and willingness to care for others. The policies in this section exist not simply to provide structure, but to help create an environment where learning can thrive, and every member feels welcomed, respected, and supported.
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Communication
Our Communication Philosophy
Communication is an expression of aloha. Every conversation, email, announcement, and message contributes to the relationships that sustain our pā. Clear, timely, and respectful communication helps ensure that every haumāna and ʻohana remains informed, supported, and connected.
Communication is a shared kuleana. We ask all members of our community to read announcements carefully, respond when appropriate, and engage with kindness, honesty, and respect. Every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen the pilina that binds our school together.
Website
www.HulaManu.com serves as the official communication hub for Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha.
The website is the primary source for:
class schedules and current offerings
registration and enrollment
tuition, fees, and online payments
required forms and school policies
calendars and important announcements
school news and resources
As our school grows, additional resources and features will continue to be added.
Students and families are responsible for checking the website regularly for the most current and accurate information.
Our social media platforms exist primarily to introduce people to Hula Manu, celebrate our community, and share highlights of our journey. Whenever possible, social media directs prospective and current haumāna back to the website, where complete and official information can always be found.
Email: aloha@hulamanu.com
Email is our primary method for private or formal communication.
Please use email for:
registration questions
tuition or billing matters
absences
confidential concerns
questions requiring a detailed response
Please allow up to 48 hours for responses during regular business days. Messages sent during weekends, holidays, or scheduled school breaks will be answered as soon as practical after classes resume.
If a matter requires same-day attention, such as an unexpected absence or time-sensitive rehearsal matter, please notify Kumu through BAND.
When emailing:
communicate respectfully and clearly
include your name (and your child's name if applicable)
avoid sending duplicate messages through multiple platforms
reserve sensitive matters for private email rather than group discussions
BAND
The BAND app serves as the primary communication platform for enrolled haumāna and ʻohana.
It is used for:
weekly announcements
class reminders
rehearsal information
schedule changes
photos and class updates
quick communication within the school community
BAND is an extension of our pā hula. All communication should reflect aloha, kindness, respect, and professionalism.
Members are expected to:
check BAND regularly
keep notifications enabled whenever possible
remain respectful in all comments and messages
keep discussions related to school activities
Photos, videos, and instructional materials shared within BAND are intended for enrolled members and their ʻohana. Please do not download, repost, or distribute class materials without the Kumu's permission.
Participation in BAND is a privilege of active enrollment. Access may be suspended or removed if a member:
behaves in a disrespectful or disruptive manner
repeatedly violates school policies
is no longer actively enrolled
creates concerns regarding privacy, safety, or the well-being of the community
Whenever appropriate, concerns will first be addressed through respectful conversation before access is restricted or removed.
Newsletter
Throughout the year, Hula Manu may distribute electronic newsletters to celebrate our community and keep families informed.
Newsletters may include:
upcoming events
class reminders
rehearsal information
hōʻike updates
school news
educational articles
celebrations of our haumāna and ʻohana
Announcements shared through the newsletter are considered official school communication. Families are expected to review each issue and remain informed about information affecting their participation.
Communication & Social Media Expectations
Our communication reflects not only ourselves but also our fellow haumāna, our Kumu, and our pā hula.
Before posting photographs, videos, or other content related to Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha on social media or other public platforms, permission should be obtained from the Kumu.
This includes content from:
classes
rehearsals
workshops
huakaʻi
choreography
mele or oli
performances not yet released for public sharing
When permission is granted, we ask every haumāna to use thoughtful judgment and ensure that all posts reflect the mission, vision, core values, and spirit of our pā.
If you are uncertain whether something should be shared publicly, please ask first.
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Enrollment & Tuition
Enrollment in Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha reflects a commitment to consistent learning throughout the school year.
School Year
The primary instructional year runs from September through May, with continued classes during the summer that focus on review and reinforcement.
Attendance
Learning depends upon consistent participation.
Every class builds upon previous lessons. While occasional absences are understandable, regular attendance allows both the individual and the entire class to progress together.
If an absence is necessary, please notify Kumu as early as possible.
Tuition, Payments, Withdrawal & Refund Policy
Tuition at Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha supports more than the weekly class experience. It reflects the ongoing preparation, planning, curriculum development, studio rental, administrative costs, and continued guidance that make each student's learning possible. Tuition reserves a student's place within the pā and is not based solely on attendance.
Tuition
Tuition is a flat monthly rate of $65.00 per haumāna.
Students who enroll in Autopay receive a 10% tuition discount, reducing monthly tuition to $58.50.
Tuition rates are reviewed periodically and may be adjusted to reflect increases in operating expenses. Reasonable advance notice will be provided before any tuition change takes effect.
Registration Deposit
For the inaugural school year beginning September 3, 2026, a $25 registration deposit is required to reserve a student's place in Papa Kōlea: Foundations.
This deposit will be applied in full toward the student's September tuition and is non-transferable.
Payment Schedule
Tuition is due on the 1st day of each month.
Payments may be made securely through our website or by another approved payment method.
Students enrolled in Autopay will have tuition processed each month automatically.
Late Payments
A $15 late fee will be assessed for tuition not received by the 5th day of the month, unless prior arrangements have been approved by the Kumu.
Students enrolled in Autopay are not subject to late fees as long as payment is successfully processed.
Returned Payments
A $25 fee will be charged for any returned or declined payment, including checks or electronic transactions.
Withdrawal
If a haumāna chooses to withdraw from classes, written notification must be submitted by email before the beginning of the next billing cycle.
Tuition already paid for the current month is non-refundable once that month's classes have begun.
Failure to attend class does not constitute withdrawal or cancel future tuition obligations.
Refund Policy
Because enrollment reserves a limited space within the pā and tuition supports the ongoing operation of the school, refunds are limited.
Refunds will not be issued for:
missed classes
vacations or personal scheduling conflicts
voluntary withdrawal after the month has begun
dismissal resulting from violation of school policies or expectations
weather-related closures beyond the school's control when reasonable alternatives are provided
Exceptions may be considered only in cases of extended medical circumstances that prevent continued participation. Requests must be submitted in writing and may require supporting documentation. Any refund or tuition credit is granted solely at the discretion of the Kumu.
Autopay
Students enrolled in Autopay receive a 10% discount on monthly tuition.
Autopay may be canceled at any time before the next scheduled billing date by notifying the school through the website or by email. Cancellations submitted after billing has been processed will take effect the following month.
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Dress, Personal Appearance & Hygiene
Haumāna are encouraged to dress modestly, comfortably, and in clothing that allows for safe and unrestricted movement.
Because hula is both a physical and cultural practice, students are asked to arrive clean, prepared, and ready to learn. Out of respect for the shared learning environment, please observe the following expectations:
Hula Manu uniform should be worn in class; otherwise, wear other clean clothing suitable for movement.
Practice good personal hygiene before class.
Avoid wearing strong perfumes, colognes, or heavily scented lotions, as some members of our community may have sensitivities.
Shoes are not permitted on the dance floor. Please remove them before entering the dance space unless otherwise directed by the Kumu or facility staff.
A clean practice pāʻū and Hula Manu practice top are encouraged for Papa Kōlea and Papa ʻAlalā, and required for all other classes. Our school uniform is an expression of unity, humility, and belonging within the pā. Until a uniform is obtained, or when a uniform is not required, haumāna should wear clean, modest clothing that allows for safe and unrestricted movement. Clothing should allow instructors to observe posture, alignment, and movement while remaining respectful and appropriate for a cultural learning environment.
Hula Manu practice shirts and tank tops are available through our online shop.
Practice pāʻū may be purchased fully constructed or as a kit with sewing instructions for those who wish to make their own.
To honor traditions observed within our lineage, very dark clothing, particularly black, should not be the predominant color worn during regular classes unless specifically requested by the Kumu.
Hair should be secured away from the face, preferably in a neat bun or another secure hairstyle.
Jewelry should not be worn during class, with the exception of a simple wedding band/ring.
Fingernails should be kept at a practical length to promote safe hand movements and the use of implements.
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Caring for Our Learning Space
Our dance space is a shared place of learning. Each haumāna shares the kuleana to mālama (care for) the space by:
Entering the studio with clean feet or socks after removing shoes.
Disposing of trash properly and leaving the space cleaner than it was found.
Treating studio equipment and furnishings with care.
Cleaning up water bottles, personal belongings, and practice materials before leaving.
Helping create a welcoming environment for everyone through courtesy, respect, and aloha.
By caring for ourselves and our shared learning environment, we honor not only the physical space but also the relationships that make our pā hula a place of growth and belonging.
Studio Etiquette
Every studio becomes our learning home while we gather there.
Haumāna are asked to:
arrive on time
silence mobile devices
help maintain a clean learning environment
treat the studio and its property with care
show courtesy to other users of the facility
enter and leave with gratitude and respect
Health & Safety
The well-being of our community is a shared responsibility.
Please refrain from attending class if experiencing symptoms of illness.
Students should inform Kumu of any injuries or medical concerns that may affect participation.
Emergency contact information should remain current throughout the year.
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Representing the Pā Hula
As haumāna of Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha, we recognize that our actions reflect not only ourselves but also our kumu, our fellow haumāna, and the lineage entrusted to us.
Because hula is both an art and a cultural tradition, students are asked to exercise humility, good judgment, and kuleana when representing the pā in public.
Public Performance
Unless specifically invited or approved by Kumu, haumāna should not perform or teach hula learned through Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha in public settings.
There may be occasions when students are invited to dance at family gatherings, community events, schools, churches, or other functions. Before accepting such invitations, please speak with Kumu. Together, we can determine whether the occasion is appropriate and how best to honor both the event and the tradition being represented.
This practice is not intended to discourage sharing hula. Rather, it helps ensure that students are adequately prepared and that Hawaiian culture is represented with accuracy, respect, and integrity.
Respecting the Learning Process
The ʻike (knowledge), choreography, chants, music, and cultural teachings shared within the pā are entrusted to our haumāna through relationship and responsibility.
Unless permission has been granted by Kumu, students should not:
teach or demonstrate class material to others outside the pā
record or distribute instructional content
share choreography, chants, or other class material publicly
reproduce class instruction through workshops, performances, or online media
Some material may be freely shared, while other material may be reserved for those actively participating in class. Kumu will provide guidance whenever questions arise.
Photography, Video & Social Media (Personal Use)
We recognize that photographs and videos can be meaningful ways to celebrate learning and preserve memories. At the same time, we ask all haumāna to use discretion and aloha when sharing content publicly.
Before posting photographs, videos, or other content related to Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha on social media or other public platforms, please obtain permission from the Kumu.
This includes:
class activities
rehearsals
choreography
mele or oli
instructional moments
workshops
huakaʻi
performances not yet released for public sharing
When permission is granted, we ask that all posts:
reflect the values of aloha, haʻahaʻa, and kūpono
respect the privacy of fellow haumāna and ʻohana
portray Hawaiian culture thoughtfully and accurately
represent the pā in a positive and respectful manner
When uncertain whether something should be shared, please ask first. Thoughtful communication helps preserve the trust that exists within our learning community.
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A Shared Commitment
Joining Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha is a mutual commitment. Just as each haumāna chooses whether to continue their hula journey with our pā, the Kumu also carries the responsibility of discerning whether the pā remains the most appropriate place for a student's continued growth.
This responsibility is never exercised lightly. Every effort will first be made to offer guidance, encouragement, clarification, and opportunities for growth. Open communication and restoration are always preferred whenever possible.
At times, however, the Kumu may determine that another teacher, learning environment, or path would better serve a student's needs and goals. Likewise, if a student's words, actions, or ongoing conduct consistently conflict with the mission, vision, core values, policies, or agreements of Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha, continued enrollment may no longer be appropriate.
The Kumu also has a responsibility not only to nurture and teach, but to kiaʻi, to protect the well-being of the pā, the integrity of the lineage, and the learning environment entrusted to every haumāna.
When necessary, the Kumu may suspend or discontinue a student's participation. Such decisions will be made thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with aloha, after careful consideration of what is best for the individual, the broader school community, and the traditions we are called to steward.
We believe that every person possesses inherent worth and good intentions. When a student's journey leads elsewhere, it is not viewed as failure, but as part of life's unfolding path. We hope that every relationship formed through Hula Manu continues to be remembered with gratitude and respect.
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Photography & Media for Hula Manu
Photographs and videos may occasionally be taken to document classes, performances, or special events.
Separate media permissions are addressed through enrollment forms and may be updated at any time.
Again, we ask all members to respect the privacy of fellow haumāna by not sharing photos or videos without permission.
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Stewardship
As Nā Manu, we are called to mālama not only one another but also the places where we gather.
Simple acts of stewardship include:
leaving spaces cleaner than we found them
conserving supplies
reducing waste whenever possible
respecting the natural environments we visit
caring for borrowed equipment and implements
These practices reflect our gratitude for the people and places that make our learning possible.
Living Aloha
The success of our pā is not measured by the number of performances we present or the number of dances we learn.
It is measured by the quality of our relationships.
When we communicate honestly, fulfill our commitments, care for one another, and approach every class with humility and gratitude, we strengthen the community that makes meaningful learning possible.
Living aloha is not something we reserve for special occasions.
It is something we practice together, every time we enter the pā.