Ian Cablay ’02

Receiving the 2025 Teacher of the Year award for the Leilehua, MIlilani, and Waialua districts (LMW) has been an incredible honor—one I’m still trying to fully process. I’ll admit, self-reflection isn’t something I often prioritize. Like many of you, I’m constantly caught up in the whirlwind of planning, organizing events, and looking ahead to the next school year.

But this recognition has given me a rare pause to step back and truly appreciate the journey.

It’s easy to get so focused on the day-to-day grind that we forget to celebrate the wins—big or small—that come along the way. So, to my fellow teachers and colleagues: take a moment to reflect. Think about the impact you’re making, the growth you’ve inspired, and the lives you’ve touched. You deserve to recognize your own milestones.

Thank you to everyone who’s supported me in this journey—my loving family, my amazing students @waialuabandgeeks, the best band boosters a band director could ever ask for, colleagues, band director homies (you know who you are) parents, and the amazing Waialua community. Let’s continue to inspire, lead, and grow together. And remember, don’t forget to look back and see just how far you’ve come. Cheeeee!

Mahalo,

Ian Cablay

2025 Teacher of the year (LMW)

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