Laura Housman is a science teacher at Sacred Hearts Academy. While she might be prepping sheep heart dissections during the day, she’s prepping her gym bag for kickboxing. Here is a quick Q & A to get to know Housman.
Q: Why did you choose to work at sacred hearts? Did you originally plan on becoming a teacher?
A: In my undergraduate program, I majored in chemistry with the goal of going into forensics. During college, I spent a lot of time tutoring and working as a teaching assistant in lab courses, and I realized how much I enjoyed teaching. That led me to pursue my master’s degree and teaching certification at the University of Portland through the Pacific Alliance for Catholic Education (PACE) program. The program places teachers in schools along the Pacific Northwest, and I was fortunate to be placed at Sacred Hearts Academy. Although the program was only two years, I chose to stay because I really value the community here.
Q: What is your favorite part about working here, and what motivates you?
A: Sacred Hearts Academy has a very supportive and welcoming community. Teachers genuinely help one another, and I appreciate the autonomy and creativity I have in my classroom. I enjoy finding ways to help students connect with science and see its relevance. I also love teaching at an all-girls school. When I first arrived, I was struck by how confident, engaged, and involved the students are, and that continues to motivate me.
Q: What are some hobbies of yours that you love and why do you love them?
A: I really enjoy kickboxing. I did not grow up doing martial arts, so it was completely new for me. I like working on the bag and doing partner drills because it feels almost choreographed and allows me to focus on technique and strength. Sparring was challenging and intimidating at first. It is fast-paced and requires quick thinking, control, and confidence. I enjoy pushing myself to try something new, and after a long day of teaching, it is fun to be in the role of a learner again.
Q: Where were you born and how long have you been living in Hawaii?
A: I grew up in Indiana and have been living in Hawaii for nine years. I hope to stay here long-term or maybe even permanently.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories from living on Oahu?
A: One of my favorite memories is going to the beach for the first time. I went to Kailua, and I remember being amazed by how soft the sand was and how blue the water looked. When I jumped in, I was surprised by how salty it was! I grew up swimming in lakes where you could not even see your feet because the water was so murky, and the smell was not always pleasant. Since then, I have really grown to love the ocean. A few years ago, I tried surfing. It was challenging at first, but standing up and catching my first wave was an unforgettable moment.
