Aloha Uncle Mel, Aunty Lois and the Na`au gang,

Thank you very much for challenging Danny to do the best that he can. With your guidance, knowledge and support, Danny did excellent in school and on the entrance exam. We are pleased to say that Danny will be attending Kamehameha next year for the 4th grade. 

Mahalo,
Danny and Lea Palimo`o

Thank you for preparing Taylor to take the SSAT test. Taylor is still in shock about being accepted at Punahou.  Our family and friends are totally thrilled. I am thankful with the outcome and feel that Punahou will challenge Taylor and maximize her potential. Our heartfelt mahalo for all your help in preparing Taylor for admissions into Punahou. We wish you all the best at the center. 
 
Margie Abe
Mother of Taylor (Punahou)

A haven - that is the first word that came to mind when we first walked into Na'au. To me, a haven is a safe place where one can heal and blossom in a warm and nurturing environment. The pervasive feeling is one of encouragement and support. To me, this is what sets Na'au apart from the rest. I remember Aunty Lois and Uncle Mel talking about bringing out my daughter's 'voice'. To me that meant blending academic writing with passion. I like to think of it in terms of blessing her with two gifts. The first gift is to develop the ability to put words to her thoughts and feelings in an organized and clear fashion. The second, and more precious gift, is the ability to infuse her words with life -- to transport the reader into the experience, to feel the emotions, to inspire, to move. Na'au brought out my daughter's voice and it truly is a priceless gift. It is one that will serve her well for a lifetime, in all areas of her life.

Debra Nakagaki
Mother of Kristyn Wong, `Iolani

It is hard to believe that Malia has been a student of Na’au for five years! I can sincerely say that Na’au has shaped her personal and academic development. Na’au has provided Malia with exceptional opportunities to show her creative spirit. There are many wonderful experiences that Malia has had at Na’au but one that is particularly memorable is the time that Governor Lingle read her poem “Golden” at the “Take Your Pet to Work Day”. On that day, Malia proudly brought our beloved Golden Retriever, “Reno” with her to meet the Governor. Through Na’au, Malia has won many writing and art awards, and has gained experience in public speaking. She was only in first grade when she memorized her poem and presented it in front of hundreds of people at the Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Poetry Contest. 

I am so grateful to Uncle Mel and Aunty Lois for preparing Malia for admission to private school. The atmosphere was low-key, low pressure and nurturing. I especially appreciated that the SSAT prep course focused on the whole child and was much more than drilling for a standardized test. Malia received acceptances to middle school from Iolani, Punahou and Mid Pacific Institute. She is so fortunate to be in a position to choose among these excellent private schools, thanks in large part to growing up with Na’au. Thank you Uncle Mel and Aunty Lois for bringing out the creative potential in Malia!

Barbara Brooks
Mom of Malia Brooks, Waialae School

I wanted to let you know that, just as you have had a tremendous impact on so many children's lives here in Hawai'i, you have also had a major impact on Keapolani's life. Since he worked with you and Mel at Na'au, he actually loves to write, and loves writing poetry, in particular. He also has a great deal of confidence in his own thoughts and his ability to express them through writing. He's certainly thrilled about it, and I am still pretty speechless... Truly, you have had an amazing affect on him, both with respect to his academics and his confidence. Mahalo again for being. You are truly amazing people that affect so many, so deeply. I know that Keapolani will always cherish the time that he spent at Na'au, and the impact that you have had and continue to have on him. 

Dr. Sam L. No'eau Warner for Keapolani K. Palmeira Beamer

Na'au has made a world of difference for Kellie.  It has given her the confidence to stand up in class and read her papers with confidence and when she writes, it gives her a way to express herself and to open up.  All of you there have made Na'au like a second home to her -- it has become a part of her life.  Lois, thank you and Mel for helping Kellie.

David and Erin Yamada 
Parents of Kellie, Sacred Hearts Academy

Thanks to Na‘au, our hearts are touched to see how Joy’s “voice” is expressed in meaningful ways through her artwork and writing.  We are pleased to witness her developmental expression in colorful and beautiful ways through her stories, poems, and haiku.  Na‘au is a place where students embrace their infinite potential as they become one with their inner self. 

We are grateful that there is a safe and inspiring place where Joy can blossom.  Thank you Na‘au.  We feel blessed by your work.

Niki and Laurie Libarios

Parents of Joy, The Children's House  

P.S.  I love dropping Joy off at Na‘au cause that means I can go to China town to eat some

        ono dim sum while I wait for her! – Joy’s Dad

Our family has been blessed by having Cody (age 9) attend Na`au.  He simply loves going there. This is a boy who didn't like to write.  If asked, he probably would say he still doesn't like to write but that he loves going to Na`au because he gets to use his imagination, have fun and play games. The truth is - in all that "fun," he is inspired to write poetry and stories, and think critically.  And he's enjoying reading!  In less than four months after starting Na`au,  his 3rd grade school reading test scores improved by 2 grade levels (from late 2nd grade to mid-5th grade).  His scores since have consistently continued to improve.

For me, I love how Aunty Lois, Uncle Mel, Aunty Lindsay, and everyone at Na`au conduct themselves -- the kids learn in such a respectful, loving, peaceful atmosphere.  I wish every child in Hawai`i could have such joyous learning.  Na`au is a magical place.

Leslie and Clarence Pacarro 

Parents of Cody, Haha`ione School

Na'au is a nurturing, inviting place for both student and parent.  The staff at Na'au are always gracious, accommodating, and encouraging. After only a few months at Na'au, we were surprised to learn that our son placed first in his category for the Board of Water Supply calendar contest! 

Jeanine Nakakura 
Mother of Dakota, Hongwanji Mission School

I wanted to write you to sincerely thank you and your staff for all your help in preparing Nicole for the SSAT and private school interview process this past year.  It was a long process, but your classes and guidance really helped Nicole feel confident in taking the test and going through the interviews.  Your SSAT class gave her a good understanding of the test concepts and which areas she needed to focus on.  I appreciated your follow up when Nicole needed to spend more time on her vocabulary words.  The practice essays were perfect.  Nicole was able to use what she learned at Na’au to answer the essay question for every school she applied at.  She also felt much more confident at the interview after practicing with Uncle Mel.  She was given good advice from the both of you on how to answer the essays and interview questions.  The best part of it was that both of you were so nurturing and caring throughout the entire process.  Nicole really enjoyed going to class, even if it was after a long day of other activities.

Thank you Uncle Mel and Aunty Lois!  We truly appreciate all that you do!

Carol Ono,

Mother of Nicole, Hanahou`oli/`Iolani

We wanted to write to express all of our gratitude to Na`au: Pu`uwai will be a Kamehameha student this Fall. I spoke to the admissions office at Kamehameha for a short debriefing, just to get an idea of what was the key thing that helped her. All around she did great. Grades were solid. The interviewer scored her high. Her test scores were above average, but what stood out was her essay. They were very impressed by her essay. We are thankful and blessed to have Na`au in our lives. Your interview and essay test preparation were key factors in her success. Now that Pu`uwai will be at Kamehameha with her younger sister, I just have my youngest one left. So I will be e-mailing you about a summer program for him very soon. Again, mahalo Aunty Lois and Uncle Mel for everything.

Kalau Robins

Mother of Pu`uwai, Kamehameha

We are thrilled to report that Tiana has received acceptance letters from Mid Pac, Kamehameha, Punahou, and Iolani  Thank you for the wonderful support.  I know she couldn't have done this well without the help she received from her Uncle Mel and Aunty Lois.  Her writing has improved a lot and I see her applying many
of the strategies that she has learned from Na'au in her daily studies.  I fully believe that Tiana's years at Na`au have prepared her for this great achievement.  Tiana continues to enjoy her learning time with you and our `ohana gives Na`au the credit for her private school admissions success--she wouldn't have done so well without  all that she has learned from your center.  We have until April 15th to make a decision.  What do we do now?  Mahalo nui loa, Na`au! 
 
Nalani Koch,
Mother of Tiana, St. Andrews Priory

Thanks for all you have done for my children. I am very proud of Alyssa because she has increased her verbal and reading comprehension SSAT scores to meet her goals. She has also gained a lot of self-confidence in the process. 

Kris Poentis

Mother of Alyssa and Kaitlyn, Maemae Elementary

Thank you to both Aunty Lois and Uncle Mel for your wonderful support and guidance throughout this school year.  It is evident given Brandi's comments and her work that she has benefited in so many ways from her experience at Na'au.  I love it and am happy for the fact that Brandi enjoys and looks forward to her time at Na'au.  She never gives me the impression that it's more work for her.  Na'au has provided a positive and nurturing environment in which Brandi has been encouraged to explore herself in a creative format.  Her poems have often been the impetus for discussion we've never had before, which in the end left me to learn things I never really knew about Brandi.  These discussions contributed to a closer relationship and better understanding of one another.  This is definitely a bonus that was not part of my initial expectations.  Thank you.  There are many more examples and stories to share but what they all speak to is the wonderful service Aunty Lois and Uncle Mel provide to the children and families.  Na'au is ohana and it's very evident in all that you do.

Lori Nakamoto
Mother of Brandi, Punahou School

Two wonderful news to share-- Makana was accepted at Kamehameha! We received the acceptance letter in the mail this past weekend, and amidst a lot of anticipation, Makana opened the letter, his eyes widened, and he let out a huge scream. Needless to say, Nat and I were just thrilled. 

Also, I wanted to share Makana's great writing test score. Makana took a Hawaii Department of Education Writing Assessment test back in October, in the midst of his Na'au experience, and on a scale of 1 to 5, Makana scored 5! WOW! 

This, we truly believe, is a direct reflection of your wonderful work with him--you are truly making a difference! Thank you again for teaching Makana. Our family is so grateful for what you do, and more importantly, the way you teach the kids, your kindness, your aloha. Mahalo, mahalo, mahalo!

Nat and Mary Pamatigan
Parents of Makana, Kamehameha

When we enrolled our son at Na'au a year ago, the goal was to help him get into the 7th Grade at Mid-Pacific in 2009.  With your help and support, Gavin will be attending 6th Grade at MPI this year!  Your team not only improved his writing skills, you also customized a program that helped him with the entire application/interview process for Mid-Pacific.  Thanki you so much for taking such a personal and loving approach to teaching Gavin.  We feel so fortunate to have been part of your ohana.  Na'au is a nurturing, inviting place for both student and parent.  The staff at Na'au are always gracious, accommodating, and encouraging. After only a few months at Na'au, we were surprised to learn that our son placed first in his category for the Board of Water Supply calendar contest! 

Debbie Watabayashi 
Mother of Gavin, Mid-Pacific Institute

Diane Low has made such a fantastic progress in her writing which makes her more confident since joining Na`au one year ago. We see her working on poems at home on her own as well. She has won numerous art and writing awards due to your help which include the Board of Water Supply Poster/Calendar contest as well as international awards. She recently was accepted to Punahou School as a 6th grader. Punahou School is her first-choice school, so she is very excited. 

Our son, Brandon Low, a freshman at Punahou, has also seen a great difference in his writing. His writing has greatly improved under your supervision. He concentrated predominantly in math and science prior to coming to Na`au. Now he is a persuasive writer and working on his creativity. 

Mahalo for your help for both of our children,
Barbara And Jim Low
Parents of Diane and Brandon, Punahou students

The good news--actually the great news--is that Brigitte received acceptance letters from Iolani, Kamehameha, La Pietra, and Punahou. We are deeply grateful for all that Na'au has done for our family. You have not only taught Brigitte specific skills that contributed to her success, but also personal skills in self-confidence, human value, leadership and creativity. We are fortunate to be a part of the Na'au family.

Natalie K. Oana-Russo 
Mother of Brigitte, Star of the Sea School

Great news! I just received notice that I was accepted into my first choice boarding school, The Lawrenceville School in Princeton, New Jersey. I'll miss being in Hawaii, and boarding school will be a drastic change for me. However, I just wanted to say thank you for everything. With all your support and help with my SSAT, admission interview, and application essays, I'm off to a fresh and exciting start as a Lawrentian. This is my family's dream come true. Thank you so much Aunty Lois and Uncle Mel.

Iris Pak
Lawrentian

Arthur and I don’t get to thank you enough for all that you are doing for Perry. She loves every moment she spends at Na’au and with the both of you! She recently mentioned that she’d like to study creative writing in college and may spend time with a friend (whose father is a playwright) to co-write a play this summer. This would not have been possible without your guidance, influence and love. You have provided her the tools and empowered her to believe that “she can.” 

Lisa Buto 
Mother of Perry, Hongwanji Mission School

Lisa and I want to express our sincere thanks for the good job in encouraging, inspiring, and empowering Leimana.  We are proud of her and thank you for having her as a part of Na`au.

Noel G. Trainor
General Manager, Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa
Father of Leimana, The Kamehameha Schools

We'd like to take this opportunity to thank you for your love, support, and healing, loving guidance. We are truly grateful for you! Thank you for providing Chase with a safe, loving, unconditional space to freely express himself. What a gift!

Glen and Janey Lindbo
Parents of Chase, student at Iolani School

After learning tips for the SAT writing section at Na'au, my essay score went from a 9 to a 12 (maximum score).  The overall SAT score went up a hundred points and I got a 790 (out of 800)!  Thank you Aunty Lois and Uncle Mel -- you are the best!

Mie Omori, Iolani School
Daughter of Clarice Hashimoto and Gary Omori

Sammi enjoyed the Paragraph Writing Institute.  She told me that she felt really inspired to write at Na'au.  There have been few times after the class when she would say, "Uncle Mel taught me that."  I'm so glad she had the chance to learn from you.  My intention was to give her a different experience with writing -- one that she would not get in public school.  Learning from writers boosted her excitement about writing.  I think Na'au is a great place and the inspiration begins when you enter the door -- so beautiful, calm, and relaxing.  Thanks so much for your kindness.

Joyce Larson, Teacher
Mom of Samantha Kei, Maunawili Elementary School

I just wanted to tell you that I was on the verge of tears as I read Matthew's first poem written at Na'au. "Promising", as it was titled, reflects who Matthew truly is. It was a joy to read. As I read it, Matthew looked at me grinning from ear to ear. I knew immediately that he had made some kind of connection with that part of himself that has been yearning to communicate his thoughts and feelings.

We are both so excited to be a part of your program. Thank you so much.

Kerryn Carland
Teacher, Le Jardin Academy 
and proud parent of Matthew, Voyager Charter School

Lois-Ann and Mel, you two are such a great team.  You are both individually so talented, warm and caring.  You have an oasis where students can feel secure, not threatened and where they can gain confidence with your positive teaching.

Sally Lee
Mom of Rachel, Punahou School

Lois and Mel have brought out the best in our daughter, Kristen.  Since attending Na'au, we have not only seen a great improvement in her writing skills, but she has also become a confident writer.  She used to dislike writing, but now ENJOYS it and can't wait to attend her next Na'au class.  She is able to express her inner feelings better and put it into words.  Sometimes we are really surprised at the poems she brings home for us to read.  Terrific.  Kristen told us that "Aunty Lois and Uncle Mel make writing fun!"  What a big difference in her attitude.  We love it!

Kristen was recently accepted to all the private schools she applied to (Iolani, Punahou, Mid Pacific Institute), and we know that Na'au played a big part in her success.  Now we have the pleasant job of selecting one of them!  We are truly grateful to Mel and Lois for all the love and guidance they give Kristen every week.  We also feel very fortunate to have found Na'au and to become part of your 'ohana.  We love you Lois and Mel.  You are the greatest!

Derek and Shirlene Tanabe
Parent of Kristen, Kane'ohe Elementary School

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Na'au has become an integral part of our lives and the Na'au 'ohana has enhanced our lives tremendously!  Na'au provides more than skills in language arts, math and test taking.  Na'au provides support, knowledge and a warm spirit.  Na'au has given Ashley and Lahela confidence in writing, speaking and communication in their daily lives, not just in school.  Ashley has more direction and focus, and is enjoying the honors program at Kamehameha.  Lahela is more confident and comfortable in test taking and writing.  The SSAT prep has helped Lahela in all areas of applying to private high schools.  She did so well on the SSAT, writing samples, and interviews that she has received acceptance letters from Kamehameha, Iolani, Punahou and Maryknoll.  Na'au has truly enriched the lives of the whole Williams 'ohana!

Gina M. Williams
Proud parent of Ashley (Kamehameha) and Lahela (TBA)

We are so fortunate to have Aunty Lois and Uncle Mel in our lives.  They have enriched our learning by sharing their wisdom and love.  Both of our girls enjoy their classes and look forward to each and every session.  This is what true learning is all about.

Rod and Rhonda Nagao,
Parents of Lauren and Haley, both students at Iolani School

Our prayers have been answered.  Kamri has been accepted into The Kamehameha Schools.  Thanks to all of you at Na'au, Kamri has been more confident in herself.  Na'au was a very positive component to her success.  Your oral communication class gave her the self-confidence and exposure to the interview portion of the admission test that she needed.  Her award winning poem was a positive addition to her accomplishments as well.  I thank all of you for the kindness, guidance, patience and prayers you have given to her.  We are very grateful.

Kathy Oguma
Mom of Kamri, The Kamehameha Schools

I just wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart!  My two sons, Matt and Kyle, just completed your summer Fiction Writing Institute and I could not believe the three writings that they completed in just one week time period!  It was amazing!  Their writings had me crying, laughing and just grinning ear to ear with pride!  I am amazed at how colorful and descriptive their writings were!  Thank you so much for giving them this gift!

Tina Tsubota
Parent of sons Kyle, Our Redeemer Lutheran, and Matt, Lutheran High School

Thank you for welcoming Megan to Na`au.  She thoroughly enjoys your Poetry and Paragraph Writing classes.  Megan is practically "begging" me to learn at Na`au all the time.  This is a pleasant surprise for Mom... two weeks ago, before she started your program, she had very little interest in writing.

Ryan & Liann Dung
Parents of Megan Hi`ilani, Hawaii Baptist Academy

Uncle Mel and Aunty Lois, I cannot thank you enough for making creative writing fun for my children. They now look forward to Mondays, especially Deja. Out of all the other extra curricular activities I've ever put my children through, this is by far the best investment I've made for them.

Valerie Holt-Parker,
Mom of Deray, St. Anthony;  Divon, Ma`ema`e;  & Deja, St. Theresa

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The funny thing is you would think that students would welcome not having to go to extra classes to study.  But the twins really look forward to going to Na`au.  They are sincerely disappointed that they cannot attend your classes all the time.  We consider ourselves so blessed to have found you both because they get so much more than just mere instructions.  I can't thank you enough for the impact you have made in my children's lives.We really love you guys.

Pauline & Larry Nomura
Daughters Janelle & Julianne, both students at Punahou

Dara has expressed on several occasions how she loves working with you at Na`au and that she is so comfortable in that environment.  She is showing considerable progress at school and is definitely a more confident writer.

Ada Azuma, Mother of Dara, Punahou School

Our Island Art of Rice writing competition drew a large batch of extraordinarily well-written pieces. I've judged many essay contests over the years and usually there are but a handful of potential winners in a sea of almost-but-not-quite. This competition, however, brought out the best in many writers and the majority of the essays fell into the "could be a contender" pile for re-reading and agonizing over.

Despite this stiff competition, the stack of one-page essay from Na`au students stood out from the start. I read every one at least twice, smiled at the humor in some, sighed at the emotion in others. What most impressed me was the genuine voice evident in each piece. Many student-written pieces are stiff and false, written to please rather than to express. Clearly, the teachers at Na`au have succeeded in creating a safe and stimulating place in which these students can relax and be themselves as writers. They use sensory detail, intriguing turns of phrase and colorful language and they write from their real lives.

I decided right away that I would select at least one of these for an honorable mention and that I would mention the school's work in my Art of Rice story. Courtney Lelepali's piece on her mom's fried rice stood out as well-organized, clever ("you just have to be my mom") and embellished with telling detail.

Wanda Adams
Honolulu Advertiser

I was pleasantly shocked to read the poems that my daughter wrote after only six months of writing lessons.  She has really improved on her overall writing skills.

Eddie Flores, Jr., Founder, L&L Drive Inn
Father of Ellice, Kalani High School student

MAHALO PLENTY!!!! I think there is a bright light at the end of Marisa's tunnel now.    She is much happier with your help.

Ann and Keith Shigetomi
Parents of Marisa Shigetomi, Roosevelt High School

Na`au is a wonderful venue for aspiring writers of any age or aptitude. They've made a tremendous difference for me, offering a customized writers' workshop that has lent structure, purpose, and invaluable feedback to my writing process."

Malia Mattoch McManus

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It's been truly a blessing that we found Na`au, Lois-Ann Yamanaka and Mel Spencer.  I'm a strong believer that if you can read, you can be successful in all that you do -- writing, comprehension and understanding.

This area has always been a struggle for our eighth grader.  It's been six months since she first started at Na`au and many rewards have come to her.  Her writing constantly surprises us.  Is this truly our daughter?  One of her pieces was chosen as an honorable mention in the Honolulu Advertiser's "About Rice" contest and two other writings have been submitted to the Hawaii Educator's Association writing contest.  She suddenly loves to read, much to my delight, and always has a book in her hands.

You know this is a good place for your child when she constantly asks when her next class is or wants to go an extra day.  Thank you Lois-Ann and Mel for nurturing and bringing the best out of Courtney.  The love and support you provide for all your students is truly unconditional, and I know, straight from your na'au.

 Jo Ann Lelepali
Mother of Courtney, Punahou student

Something to make your day:  Keilen just started school yesterday so last week he was a little apprehensive about starting a new grade level.  To "dilute" his fears I told him that his new teacher is really nice and understanding and our whole family is so happy to have her as your teacher. His response was, "NO ONE can be as nice as the man at Na`au!!!"  My kids really love you (Lois too)!  My children did not have a love for writing, but you and Lois infuse magic in your program because now, Kelis and Keilen yearn to come to Na`au every day.

Claire Oshita, Teacher Kaewai Elementary
Mother of Kelis and Keilen, both Hanahau'oli students

Before attending Na`au, I was having difficulties with my writing.  Although I was a bit apprehensive at first, your positive attitudes and knowledgeable guidance impacted my writing and overall I improved significantly.  With your help I was able to achieve a high score in the writing portion of the GMAT.  Thank you for all your help!

Keric Chang, Graduate Student

My progress with Lois Ann Yamanaka and Mel Spencer has been very rewarding this last year. On September 20, Bamboo Ridge Press will release their 25th Anniversary issue, in which my piece "Miss World" will be included. Also in November, Kuleana O‘iwi Press will publish Volume 3 of O‘iwi: The Native Hawaiian Journal, which includes my poem "Howl at the Womb: With Thanks to Allen Ginsberg."  With both publications
highlighting my work, I can definitely affirm that Na‘au is helping me to acquire strong writing skills and deftly nurturing my writing ability.

Lois Ann Yamanaka and Mel Spencer mentor and teach all writers of all levels. If any one is wanting to nurture their own creative writing, learn new methods of writing or work on analytical writing (like thesis papers or dissertations) this would be a warm, safe and constructive place for them to gain feedback and help with their manuscripts and papers. It is definitely an all encompassing program.

Wendie Joy Burbridge, English Teacher, Kamehameha High School 

Aloha Lois & Mel - Alec paid the most thoughtful compliment to Na`au.  As I was walking with him to class yesterday, he said, "When I grow up and have a child, I'm going to send him to this class."  I asked him if he thought that Aunty Lois would still be teaching then.  He said, "Well, maybe not, but maybe I can be the teacher!".
That's the first time I have ever heard him look to the future in this manner, and I was so pleased!!  (Alec was too!) 

Dawn Suyenaga
Mother of Alec Ho`ale`e, Hanahau'oli student

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My children have always been creative, but you have given them the gift of being able to organize and express it.  Somehow you get their 200 mile a minute minds (and mouths) to slow down, focus and stay organized.

One of my weekly highlights is to make the trek to "lower Nuuanu", past Cheep Ass Cigarettes, and a host of "fast cash" storefronts, up two flights of stairs (pant pant) to my favorite door on the island.  I love standing at your front door reading all the creative poems and stories.  I also know when I enter your "club house" I will be greeted by two excited and happy children, with works that never fail to surprise me and make me proud (although I sometimes feel that my role in this is only that of the pliant chauffeur).

Dr. Monte Elias 
Father of Sarah and Keith, both Punahou students

My older daughter started taking classes with Lois Ann Yamanaka two and a half years ago when she was a third grade homeschooler. For some reason, even though I am a professional writer -- or because I am -- writing was the one subject I could not teach her. No matter how gently I commented on her poems or essays, she felt as if I were criticizing her and would burst into tears.  At Na`au, my daughter has blossomed into both an award-winning poet who has been published in several national magazines and -- more importantly -- an insightful and articulate young person.

Her younger sister, who will start Kindergarten this fall, sees only that poetry class is "fun," and can't wait to join the class herself.

Nora Okja Keller, 
author of Comfort Woman and Fox Girl
Mother of Tae and Sun Hi, both Punahou students

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Na`au is a wonderful non-judgmental arena to expose the words you've so carefully written.  Through Lois and Mel I learned how to find my na`au when writing.  Now when I write I can feel it when I write from my head, least creative, my heart – getting better, or my na`au (gut).

But Na`au isn't gratuitous in its critique.  They aren't just a 'yes man' service.  They will just as often tell you when something doesn't work and more importantly why it doesn't and give advice on how to fix it.

I have three teenagers, one husband, two dogs and a purse manufacturing business.  Plus I'm on the other side of 50.  The thought of driving downtown at 7:30 at night to discuss my novel seemed impossible.  Now I look forward to these weekly session and the amazing friendship I've formed with two talented and incredible people. 

Mahalo Lois-Ann and Mel

Jeri Lynch, wife, mother, dog owner, purse maker

"My two sons have worked with Lois Yamanaka since 1999.  Through Lois' unique teaching style my sons have won poetry awards, developed their creative writing skills, improved their articulation in verbal and written responses, made good friends at the Na`au Center, and have fun while learning.  I also credit Lois for making a positive difference in my sons' applications to private schools with respect to writing and reading, traditionally the more challenging topics for Hawaii children to overcome.  Her impact is so great, yet she is so humble."

Marie and Mitch Imanaka
Parents of Michael and David, both Iolani students

Dear Lois-Ann and Mel, 
Here's one of parenthood's paradoxes: we often end up seeing only the worst side of our kids. We get to see the kid who says, "Just let me go on being a baby!", or the one who says, "I'll do anything to avoid being under your thumb!". The proto-human who really hears our voice, the one who says, "I really want to end up being something like my mom and dad." is rarely allowed to emerge in our presence. That's why your gift of creating a sanctuary in which the child's true spirit can blossom through writing, is so valuable both to her and to me as a parent.

My daughter, with your guidance, gave me this year the best Christmas present I've had in many a year: a poem expressing her gratitude to me for believing in her and helping her conquer her mathematics demons. The sentiments were conveyed with a force and complexity which took me by surprise: can this be the same thirteen-year-old I'm having to yell at every night because she won't pick up her clothes?? Obviously she is growing and developing in ways which necessarily take her beyond me, into territory where others such as you will need to provide her guidance and permission.

Seeing the work she produces week after week in the environment you foster allows me a glimpse into the person she is truly becoming!

Carlos A. Weber, M.D.
Hawaii Permanente Medical Group, Inc.
Father of Simone Weber, Punahou student

"At Na`au, Lois-Ann and Mel have created a nurturing environment to
learn.  They teach with compassion and humor, sensitivity and intelligence. I love coming to class, and am amazed at my progress.  Due to their encouragement, one of my poems became a short story, and now each paragraph is  developing into a chapter.  Through their excellent critiques, I have improved my writing and have more confidence in my own "voice". Thanks to Lois-Ann and Mel, I have become aware of the joy and pleasure of writing from the heart. "

Susan, Naau believer

Invisible Meaning
Na`au is like a fuzzy cream-colored pillow

creating heroic thoughts
that heal new and fresh minds, 
molding and improving
the pure thoughts of the students,

kissing the invisible
sounds in the room,

lifting the perfect
studying environment
into a risen level of a sheer
and peaceful learning experience.

Ryan Goo,  Punahou student

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How can I put into words the good works that Lois Ann and Mel do?  Their talent to read between the lines and reach beyond the written word to uncover the heart of the writer is uncanny.  At Na`au, Lois Ann and Mel cultivate the craft of writing and the art of life, where humanity thrives on the smallest details and most mundane events, which in turn, blossom into the poignant moments that either evoke tears or laughter or both.  It has been an honor being a Na`au student for the past 1-1/2 years.  I’ve looked forward to every session and have never come away without encouragement, suggestions, or inspiration to write from the inside out. 

Kiki Furuya, Teacher Nanakuli Elementary

"I would like to say that Na`au has changed my life.  I have always wanted to be a writer but never was provided with the proper direction to translate my feelings and ideas into words.  Not only has working on a potential novel rejuvenated my spirit, but it has also provided me with a means to work through negative past events.  I am so grateful to both Lois-Ann and Mel for all of their guidance and support."

Maria B. J. Chun, student

"A warm atmosphere, a place where someone can relax and have fun while writing poems--it is the perfect place in which one can write, laugh, and learn." 

David Imanaka, Iolani student

"Lois-Ann and Mel are wonderful mentors.  After spending fifteen years writing computer and science materials, I wanted to write a novel.  I come away from every class with specific techniques to improve the writing and structure of my novel, as well as the creative inspiration and emotional support to continue writing.  We laugh a lot in class, too."

Beverly Lynn Wilson, Technical Writer, Trainer, and Software Consultant