Photos
2023-24 Milken Educators
Photo 15 of 69
Rory Inouye (HI '23)
Teacher, Waiakea High School | Hilo, HI
At Hilo’s Waiakea High School, teaching is a family affair for math teacher Rory Inouye: his father, mother and brother are educators. Inouye received a Milken Educator Award on April 9, 2024.
A graduate of WHS himself, Inouye brings a fresh enthusiasm to his classroom every day, so much so that it is not uncommon to see full groups of students visiting during recess or lunch. By creating a safe space for students to think critically and collaboratively, Inouye has contributed to notable increases in student proficiency on state assessments. Inouye prioritizes student-led learning, encouraging higher-order thinking and problem-solving. Valuing relevancy and real-world situations, he will often draw from math podcasts and online technologies like Desmos Classroom. Outside of the classroom, he serves on the WHS Freshman Academy, manages after-school tutoring, advises Homecoming, and led his freshmen students through a life goal-setting project presented to school and community members.
Inouye received his Bachelor of Arts in education from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 2011 and his Master of Education from the University of Hawaii at Hilo in 2013.
All photos should be credited to "Milken Family Foundation" unless otherwise noted.
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