We’re proud to celebrate Denise Mazurik, a passionate educator and Global Scholars teacher at Waiākea Intermediate School in Hawai‘i, for being recognized by the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives and the Commission to Promote and Advance Civic Education (PACE) during National Civic Learning Week 2025.
Denise Mazurik of Waiākea Intermediate School was honored by the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives and the PACE Commission for her leadership in civic education and her transformative role in the Ukraine Youth Action Network (UYAN), a program by MapWorks Learning.
Denise was one of five teachers honored for her outstanding contributions to civic education and her unwavering commitment to empowering students as informed, thoughtful, and engaged global citizens. In remarks from the floor of the Hawai‘i House of Representatives, Representative Amy Perruso and Hawai‘i Supreme Court Associate Justice Lisa Ginoza praised honorees like Denise for laying the foundation of democracy in the classroom—by cultivating civic responsibility, encouraging participation, and building community.
In her role as a Global Scholars teacher, Denise has helped create an innovative, inquiry-driven learning environment where students explore global issues, build empathy, and discover their agency. That commitment came to life in her participation in the Ukraine Youth Action Network (UYAN), where she facilitated cross-cultural collaboration between students in Hawai‘i and peers across Ukraine and Europe.
Denise Mazurik of Waiākea Intermediate School was honored by the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives and the PACE Commission for her leadership in civic education and her transformative role in the Ukraine Youth Action Network (UYAN), a program by MapWorks Learning.
Reflecting on her UYAN experience, Denise shared:
“It has been one of the most transformative experiences I’ve had the privilege of facilitating—one that develops not just global understanding but real empathy and agency.”
Even after the program concluded, Denise’s students continued reaching out to ask about their “Narrative Atlas friends,” a testament to the lasting relationships and deep engagement fostered through this unique exchange. These ongoing connections show how virtual exchange can transcend borders and build community in profound, lasting ways.
Denise, thank you for your leadership, your heart, and your commitment to creating classrooms that are as courageous as they are compassionate. Your work continues to inspire us all!