First, tell our readers a little about yourself. How long have you been working with film? Sean Doi: I’m a Kaua‘i boy all the way. I was born and raised on Kaua‘i and am a proud graduate of Kaua‘i High
First, tell our readers a little about yourself. How long have you been working with film?
Sean Doi: I’m a Kaua‘i boy all the way. I was born and raised on Kaua‘i and am a proud graduate of Kaua‘i High School. From there, I went on to the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo and eventually graduated from UH Manoa with a degree in education.
I come from a family of educators, so I’ve always been immersed in conversations about education and the joys and challenges that go with the profession.
As for film, I was the type of guy who brought a little video camera on family vacations, but never really got into it until I had the opportunity to work on a Koloa Elementary School project a few years back. That really piqued my interest and it was at that point that I realized society was really taking a liking to short video clips.
How did the “Kauai Shining Stars in Education” program first get started?
SD: It’s always been a goal of mine to bring forth positive education news to our community given how often times we hear about the negative aspects pertaining to our educational system.
During the summer of 2012, I decided that I wanted to take my passion to fruition and approached our Complex Area Superintendent, Mr. Bill Arakaki, about the idea to create this show. He liked the concept right away, so I put together a plan and, through his support with resources, made it happen.
We’ve got a lot more in store, but we’re off to a great start.
For those who haven’t seen the series, how would you describe it?
SD: The name of the show, “Kaua‘i’s Shining Stars in Education,” says it all. It’s about “shining the light” on some of the great people, events and programs in our Kaua‘i public schools. The series is meant to inform, inspire and motivate the people of Kaua‘i, or for that matter, anyone who tunes in to the show.
It’s feel-good entertainment that the whole family can enjoy. We produce a new show every month and each show consists of a few school or district stories, along with student-produced public service announcements.
You recently released the fifth episode of the show. What kinds of stories are featured this month?
SD: Check out the fifth episode! You’ll learn about the District Science Fair held in February, where we got to talk to some of the students with their impressive projects. Next, we headed over to Hanalei Elementary, where they have a successful Peer Helper Group program that teaches and fosters positive behavior for all students. Finally, we end the show at ‘Ele‘ele Elementary where kupuna Janet Kahalekomo positively impacts the children with her aloha and passion for Hawaiian values and culture. In between those stories, you’ll see two PSAs that were produced by Chiefess Kamakahelei and Kapa‘a Middle School students.
With so many great things going on in Kaua‘i schools, how do you go about choosing your subjects each month?
SD: That’s a tough one because you are right, there are many awesome things going on in every school. As a complex area resource teacher, I get the opportunity to witness and learn about the wonderful things taking place in our district and schools. Often times, I will envision a story and approach the school. Other times, schools contact me and nominate a story that they want to feature. Furthermore, we have district events that are annual successes, so we cover those, too.
How long does it take you to produce one of the 30-minute shows? Do you have a favorite episode so far?
SD: It takes approximately 40 to 45 hours to produce each episode. This includes everything from coordinating the filming, developing the framework and interview questions, filming on-site, shuttling equipment, editing, reviewing, uploading and prepping for production. I’m very fortunate to have a great team, Elliot Lucas and Buddy Lizama, to work with. We work together very well and it really helps a lot!
As for a favorite episode, they all were great to produce and film. The principals, staff, teachers and students always impress me so much. If you’re talking about a memorable moment, I’d say that getting to taste the food the Waimea High culinary arts students prepared for us ranks high up there!
What are some of the biggest challenges of producing a show like this?
SD: Coordinating everyone’s schedule is definitely a challenge. Given that I’m also a resource teacher who works with schools on curriculum, instruction and assessment practices, I need to really be cognizant of parceling out time to film during the school day. Everything else can be done outside of the school day, but most of the filming is done on-site while school is in session.
We also have to factor in my busy camera operator and editor’s schedules as well. Most importantly, we need to ensure that the school is comfortable with the schedule and filming. With all those factors needing to be in place, you can see how a calendar and clock could be our best friend or worst enemy. It’s all worth it though, as we always do our best to find a way to make it happen.
What do you think the future has in store for the Kaua‘i Shining Stars program?
SD: Exciting things are in store for the program. We plan to expand next school year to include more stories, wider distribution of viewership, incorporating more student involvement, throwing in some creative touches and continuing to improve the product.
I encourage everyone to stay tuned in and share this show with all their family, friends, co-workers — everyone they know! We’re always looking for solid community partnerships, so if any organizations or businesses want to get involved, contact me at hawaiiclone@hotmail.com.
When not working or out shooting the upcoming episode, how do you like to spend your time?
SD: Family and friends! I enjoy spending time with my wonderful wife, Sheryll, and our precious, almost 2-year-old daughter, Savannah.
They provide such a balance for me and I can’t thank my wife enough for putting up with my constant work on the project, late at night and on weekends. Savannah has recognized the show on TV and when it comes on she says, “Daddy’s show!”
I smile and kindly correct her saying, “It’s Kaua‘i’s show.” Thank you everyone and see you on-screen or live around town.
