At McKinley High School in Honolulu, a new organization is redefining the traditional path from the classroom to civic life, reports Dominic Niyo in the school’s student newspaper.
Mufi Hannemann (East West Center via Flickr Creative Commons)Launched at the start of the 2025–26 school year, the L3 Club—focused on law, leadership, and life skills—has transitioned from a narrow law enforcement recruitment program into a broad exploration of public safety and policy.
By bringing together students and professionals from across the legal and political spectrum, the club aims to bridge the gap between abstract civic concepts and the lived realities of the community.
The club’s mission is driven by co-adviser Shawn Hamamoto, a former government liaison and political strategist who believes that “public safety is bigger than policing.” Leveraging his extensive network in local and state government, Mr Hamamoto has shifted the curriculum to include diverse perspectives, ensuring students understand the intersection of policy decisions and community needs.
This real-world approach culminated in the “Road to Redemption” event, where students heard from a panel that included a corrections officer and formerly incarcerated individuals.
The impact of these firsthand accounts was palpable during the panel. Speaker Nelson Sua provided a sobering look at the generational cycle of instability, noting that all twelve of his siblings eventually entered the prison system. He delivered the most poignant message of the day:
Beyond these large-scale speaker events, the L3 Club maintains a steady presence on campus through biweekly meetings. Supported by the Honolulu Police Department’s Community Policing Team, students engage in practical leadership exercises and public-safety scenarios. This structured environment provides a “safety valve” for students, some of whom balance AP classes and sports while remaining civically engaged and grounded in reality.
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2026, the club is set to host former Honolulu mayor Mufi Hannemann as part of its quarterly guest series. By maintaining this rhythm of expert visitors and hands-on skill-building, the L3 Club is ensuring that McKinley students go beyond learning about the systems that shape their lives. To make a stronger connection, they hear the voices of those who have navigated those systems, for better or worse.
