Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

The Hawaii Catholic Schools have announced the recipients of this year's Golden Pine"apple" Award. Esther Amano from Our Lady of Good Counsel School and Sister Katherine Francis Miller, SS.CC. from Sacred Hearts Academy have been recognized for their excellence in teaching and administration respectively.

Esther Amano has been named Teacher of the Year. She has served at Our Lady of Good Counsel School for over 35 years, where she is known for her dedication and impactful teaching methods that prepare students well for high school. Dr. Dale Fryxell praised her as a mentor rooted in faith and compassion during the award presentation.

Sister Katherine Francis Miller received the Administrator of the Year award. With nearly 60 years at Sacred Hearts Academy, she is celebrated for her long-standing commitment to Catholic education and service-oriented programs that inspire students beyond academic achievements.

The awards were presented last month at the Hawaii Catholic Schools Recognition Luncheon, supported by several sponsors including Benefits By Design and HiEmployment. Both winners received monetary awards totaling $1,000 each from HCS, Chaminade University, John C. and Mary Lou Brogan, a smart TV, and additional funds for staff development provided by Augustine Educational Foundation.

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