b'A key factor in that proud history? Number one,PHOTO: DERREK MIYAHARAwere a Marianist school, he says. That makes usspecial. We do our best to live the characteristics of aMarianist education, so theres this feeling of brother-hood here.Its a legacy that Christopher, class of 87, knowsfirsthand. His experience was formativeespeciallythe welcoming hospitality, he says. I learned aboutthe Marianists by watching how they lived their lives.I was fascinated by their passion and dedication andwas drawn to education because of them.A blend of Hawaiian and Marianist cultureIn recent years, the schools commitment to providing anintegral, quality education has flowered in the form ofan innovative `aina-based curriculum. Its designedto broaden students engagement in indigenous cul-ture while instilling a deep appreciation of the islandenvironment and an understanding of the entireplanets vulnerability. School leaders also intentionally foster a sense ofohanaor community for the nearly 890 students,K-12, who attend Saint Louis School. When studentscall each other brothers, it comes from a place ofgenuine experience, Christopher says. We are aclose community, with bonds that last a lifetime. Beingcomfortable in this environment means they are ableto thrive.Marianist Brother Brandon Alana-Maugaotega justfinished his first year in campus ministry at SLS andis encouraged by evidence that the ohana spirit is aliveand well despite COVID-19s impact on everydayschool routines. Even though were in the midst of apandemic, and theres social distancing, you still getstrong glimpses, he says. Its palpable: The studentstalk about brotherhoodeven in casual conversations. elderly and showing them respect. Its a strong part From left: Christopher Casupang,None of the emphasis on Hawaiian culture or of our reputationthat we educate our young men campus ministry, SLS PresidentMarianist sponsorship comes by accident. We are to be gentlemen, both on and off campus. Glenn Medeiros and BrotherBrandon Alana-Maugaotega, SMvery focused on our mission, and its a team effort Equally important, Brother Brandon notes, is theinvolving teachers, staff and administrators, says way the school continually adapts in preparing grad-Glenn. We often observe prayers and Marianistuates for tomorrows challenges. We certainly honormoments, reminders that we are a Marianist school. and appreciate the history, he says. But its not justUltimately, this focus is intended to bear fruit that about celebrating the past. Were looking at whatsimpacts the entire community, according to Christopher. next, just as the early leaders sought to do. One of ourMany of our extracurricular programs, such as foot- biggest concerns: How do we form these young menball, have had great success and draw public attention, to respond to the complexities of the world in whichhe says. But we also succeed in cultivating gentlemen we live today?\x00of character. Our students are genuinely helpful in thecommunity, even with simple things, like assisting John Schroeder is a freelance writer from St. Louis.Saint Louis Schools 175th Anniversary: To watch the television special, Saint Louis Schools 175 Years: Strength in Diversity, go to https://tinyurl.com/yzwasbcn.marianist.com/donate 9'