Velasco Wins Hawaii Catholic School Teachers Award

Monica “Rica” Velasco, an educator at St. Joseph’s Parish School in Waipahu who spearheaded initiatives to support teachers and students through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, was named Teacher of the Year in Hawaii’s Catholic schools.

Velasco, a guidance counselor and director of technology at the school, was recognized at a May 19 luncheon by Chaminade University and Catholic Schools of Hawaii, and presented with a Golden Pineapple Trophy, a check $1,000 and $1,000 gas gift cards from Hele-Par Hawaii. The Augustine Education Foundation also awarded $1,500 to St. Joseph Parish School in recognition of Velasco’s achievement.

Velasco, who has worked at the school for seven years, said in a Chaminade statement that she was grateful and “shocked to receive this recognition, as I work alongside many innovative and exceptional teachers at St. inspire every day. I am passionate about my work and grateful for this recognition, but our team allows us to move mountains.

As a guidance counselor, Velasco was a leader in launching a social-emotional learning program at school after recognizing how the pandemic has affected students’ mental health. In her capacity as Chief Technology Officer, Velasco also organized the launch of the school’s online and hybrid learning platforms.

The Hawaii Catholic Schools Teacher of the Year Award is presented annually by Chaminade University, Hawaii Catholic Schools, and John C. and Marilou Brogan. Recipients are chosen for having demonstrated leadership within the school and the community and for being committed to the academic and spiritual development of students, according to the Chaminade statement.