Hawai'i's school system struggles with poor test scores, No Child Left Behind mandates and funding issues. But in the midst of that, the teacher of the year honors annually remind us that great teachers rise above problems, nurturing the joy of learning.

Pascale Pinner, Hawai'i's 2008 state teacher of the year, brings that joy to her eighth- grade Earth/space science and gifted and talented classes at Hilo Intermediate School.

Hearing about her classroom makes you want to grab a notebook and squeeze yourself into a school desk. Her students are challenged to form and test scientific questions to solve everyday mysteries. She says her classroom is a place where students can experience the wonders of our world, no matter their ability or proficiency level.

Pinner focuses on her students, realizing that the bureaucratic requirements and inevitable changes can't be a distraction.

Parents hope that in classrooms their children will grow in knowledge, confidence and will be challenged to let their imaginations soar.

Children and parents must participate in that process, but the alchemist is the teacher — and in many classrooms teachers daily transform their students, encouraging learning and creativity and honing thinking skills.

Pinner was one of seven 2008 district teachers of the year. The other six district winners are Cori Lei Chong, Ka'ewai Elementary; David Arakaki, Moanalua Middle School; Shari Takahashi, Nanaikapono Elementary School; Suzanne Cummings, Kailua High School; Leighton Nakamoto, Kalama Intermediate School; and Kevin Matsunaga, Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School.

Most teachers rise to the challenge of a school day because they love what they do.

Kevin Matsunaga of Kaua'i calls the "spark in a child's eye" his greatest reward.

That's what teaching is all about.