Denise Espania’s teaching career has spanned Pre K through 12th grade, general and special education, from Washington to Hawaiʻi. In 2004, Denise left the classroom and moved into post secondary education. After enjoying her time as an educational researcher and teacher educator, she returned to K-12 as a school administrator at an elementary and then a middle school. Denise received her undergraduate from Gonzaga University and her masters degree in Special Education from the University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa. She continued her education receiving her administrator credential and doctorate from the University of Washington. Denise is humbled and honored to serve the students and ʻohana of Waimānalo.

Her work is grounded in looking to the future while being rooted in the culture of our past and her belief that all children learn how to care for the earth, for each other, and to become successful contributing members of society by working with peers and mentors through a process of observing, doing, and perfecting. She views the “kuleana” (responsibility) of educators to ensure that all “keiki” (children) have the confidence and courage to dream and set high goals, navigating through the challenges and successes of life to reach their desired destinations.