Super Students
Saturday, March 14, 1998
Name: Jenny Chee
Age: 14
School: Kamehameha Schools
Favorite subject: English
Pastimes: Hula
Future: Hawaiian studies teacher
For 14-year-old Jenny Chee, practicing hula doesn't leave her much time for other extracurricular activities. Out to make a difference
Chee spends twice a week with Ha'lau Mo'hala 'Ilima preparing for the 35th annual Merrie Monarch Festival next month. She's also part of another halau, Na Wahine Hele La'o Kaiona, which practices once a week.
"Hula is my life," said Chee, a ninth-grader at Kamehameha Schools. "You have to be totally dedicated to it."
But it's all worth it, because hula allows her to share her love for the Hawaiian culture.
Chee also does well in school. She has a 3.8 GPA and is taking honors classes in English, biology and Hawaiian culture.
Personal-health teacher Ernie Brennon, who taught Chee last semester, describes her as personable, attentive and well-liked by her peers.
"She's just a ball of energy, a real 'do-it' kind of person, very motivated and enthusiastic in and out of the classroom," Brennon said.
Chee said that after graduation she wants to attend college on the East Coast and come back home to take a few Hawaiian language courses at the University of Hawaii. Her plans are to become a Hawaiian studies teacher, helping students reach their highest potential.
"My ultimate goal is to make a difference in at least one person's life," she said.
"If I can do that, then I'll be happy."
Shirley Iida, Star-Bulletin
