Out for New Adventures, Romeo Eleno Retires

written by Michelle Fujie-Kaauamo

After almost three decades of service to the Lāna‘i community, Romeo Eleno, a beloved educator, mentor and coach, retired from Lāna‘i High & Elementary School in December. His retirement marks the end of a chapter that has profoundly shaped the lives of countless students, athletes and colleagues on our small island.

Mr. Eleno’s journey into education began in an unlikely way. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, he returned home to Moloka‘i, where he was encouraged by a local principal to teach at Kilohana Elementary. Despite his bachelor’s degree in sociology, he had never planned on becoming a teacher. Yet, he took a chance, and the experience sparked a passion for education. His love for teaching eventually led him to Lāna‘i, a place he had never visited before, but which would soon become home.

Arriving on Lāna‘i in the late 1990s, Mr. Eleno quickly became an integral part of the school community. His initial role as a physical education teacher was just the beginning. He spent many years coaching volleyball, guiding students not only in sports but in life, teaching them the values of teamwork, discipline and perseverance. His ten-year span as volleyball coach is fondly remembered by players like Brenden Ka‘aikalā, LHES class of 2007:

“I first had Mr. Eleno as my P.E. teacher in sixth grade, and his classes were so much fun that I signed up for them every chance I got. I continued to take his classes once a year through middle school and twice a year in high school. He taught me the basics of creating workout plans and introduced me to key muscle groups and how they work — knowledge I still use today. I also had the privilege of having him as my volleyball coach, which made for some of my favorite school memories. Watching him go from sitting cross-legged to effortlessly holding a handstand was what first introduced me to the world of calisthenics. Overall, Mr. Eleno was a teacher who left a lasting impact on my athletic development and general health. Thank you, Mr. Eleno, for being the role model that you were and helping us young boys to develop into young men and giving us the functional knowledge you taught us.”

“Overall, Mr. Eleno was a teacher who left a lasting impact on my athletic development and general health.”

One of the most enduring aspects of Mr. Eleno’s career is his genuine belief in the students of Lāna‘i. “I still believe that our students here on Lāna‘i are the best in the whole state,” he shared with pride. His view of the potential within each student is reflected in the deep relationships he built over the years, both in and out of the classroom. Whether coaching sports, advising students or simply being a trusted mentor, Romeo’s impact on the island’s youth has been immeasurable.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Eleno is equally cherished for his fun-loving spirit and sense of humor. As a former student who now works alongside him as a colleague, I fondly recall a memorable moment from my high school days when Mr. Eleno took to the stage for a lip-sync performance of a reggae song during a school assembly. His fearless performance and playful energy left a lasting impression on me. He inspires me to bring that same enthusiasm into my own teaching. During the challenging days of remote learning during COVID, Mr. Eleno would often reach out to me for assistance with technology, eager to learn new skills to enhance his students’ virtual education. His openness to learning, coupled with his ability to infuse humor and fun into the classroom, made him not only an effective educator but also a relatable and approachable role model. His genuine connection with students, grounded in both fun and mentorship, helped create a positive, supportive learning environment on Lāna‘i.

“His fearless performance and playful energy left a lasting impression on me. He inspires me to bring that same enthusiasm into my own teaching.”

In a conversation about his decision to retire, Mr. Eleno spoke candidly about the challenges that led to his choice. “It’s time,” he said. “Life is not guaranteed, and you have to live it. I’ve always told teachers, ‘If you have the years of service and the age to go, go.’” His decision to retire was not made lightly, but as he approaches this next chapter, he remains at peace with it. His retirement is not just about stepping away from the classroom but about finding a new balance and enjoying the fruits of his labor.

As Mr. Eleno prepares to leave the classroom behind, his legacy will live on in the many students whose lives he touched. His advice to them is simple yet powerful: “Take advantage of the education you can find outside of our island, but always remember where you came from.” Mr. Eleno is now embarking on a new adventure, traveling the world, and perhaps finding new opportunities to give back in ways he has yet to imagine. His bucket list includes Spain, Italy, Australia and Japan, where he hopes to explore, learn and enjoy the world he has worked so hard to make a better place.

“Take advantage of the education you can find outside of our island, but always remember where you came from.”

To Romeo, Mr. Eleno, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the years of dedication, the wisdom shared, and the countless lives you’ve touched. While we will miss his presence on Lāna‘i and my personal favorite random gifts of pinakbet and Chinese good luck candy, we know that the impact he’s made will resonate for generations to come. Wishing you all the best in your retirement, may your travels be as fulfilling as your time here on Lāna‘i.