KAPOLEI — Kapolei Middle School agriculture teacher Ashley Fuerst was honored today with the 2026 State Teacher of Promise award. The award is granted annually by the Milken Educators of Hawai‘i — a select group of Hawai‘i educators who have been recognized by the nationally renowned Milken Family Foundation — to a classroom teacher who demonstrates outstanding commitment and potential during their first three years with the Hawai‘i State Department of Education (HIDOE).
Fuerst, a proud graduate of both Kapolei Middle and High Schools, has made a significant impact in just her sixth semester of teaching. She was honored for her innovation in establishing the middle school’s thriving agriculture program.
She received a $4,000 cash prize sponsored by HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union for professional development during a surprise presentation at a faculty meeting Wednesday…