Academics

Mrs. Kida

Student Services Coordinator

Mrs. Kida got her Bachelor of Science degree in Family Resources from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.  Then worked for the State Librarians office and the Department of Human Services before going back to UH to get her Master’s Degree in School Counseling.

She was a school counselor at Nimitz Elementary and Pearl Ridge Elementary before coming to Momilani in 2020.

In her spare time she enjoys baking, reading, shopping, and traveling.

Mr. Nishihara

Guidance Counselor

Mr. Nishihara started his school counseling career in 1989,  With a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology (Chaminade University of Hawaii), he was split between 2 elementary schools in the Leeward District, serving both schools half-time.  With Momilani Elementary School being one of the smallest, a full-time counselor position was not warranted until parents and students turned to the Legislature and lobbied for a full-time counselor position.

After receiving his tenure,”Mr. Nish” selected Momilani as his “full-time” school of employment and has been at Momilani ever since.  He now has the privilege of serving parents who acted as student leaders lobbying for a full-time counselor position during the early 1990’s.  Also, “Mr. Nish” recognizes other parents who were former students...their names too!  So don’t think you can hide from him even though you’re a little taller, he remembers you! 

With the same focus back in the day, Mr. Nish said he still carries out Momilani’s old motto, “Quality Education in a Caring and Safe Environment”  with tweaks for today.  He still enjoys surfing when he has time and continues to hone the art of surfboard making.

Mrs. Keanini

Educational Assistant

Mrs. Keanini grew up in Pearl City and is married with two children.  Her son is a student at the University of Hawaii West Oahu, while her daughter is a teacher at Waipahu Intermediate School.  Jill and her husband are Pearl City High School alumni and she went on to study graphics at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. In her down time she enjoys going to the beach, camping, home remodeling and decorating. She serves in the youth ministry at Grace Bible Church. Jill has been at Momilani Elementary school since 2006 working with the K-6th grade students.