NSSD Moai (or Action In Excellence Award)

Elders in Okinawa, Japan, a longevity hotspot, live extraordinarily better and longer lives than almost anyone else in the world. Moai, one of their longevity traditions, are social support groups that start in childhood and extend into the 100s.

In small neighborhoods across Okinawa, friends “meet for a common purpose” (sometimes daily and sometimes a couple days a week) to gossip, experience life, and to share advice and assistance when needed. They call these groups their moai.

Traditionally, groups of about five young children were paired together and it’s then that they made a commitment to each other for life. As their second family, they would meet regularly with their moai for both work and play and to pool resources. Some moais have lasted over 90 years! -Blue Zones by Dan Buettner-

We know NSSD is a Moai of sorts and we want to spread the concept of being connected throughout the whole district. Connections are what fight off much of the mental stress we face on a daily basis. Knowing that we have others to help and support us is critical to our success. When we are supported we will be better at reaching our students and helping them understand that sense of Moai themselves. 

Thank you to all those that are making MOAI a part of the educational experience. 

--
O'Dee Hansen

Superintendent

North Sanpete School District