Maui Economic Opportunity’s recent Employee of the Month, Lani Koki, has worked at MEO for more than three decades and holds a key position in the Head Start preschool program.
She is the Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment and Attendance Manager, performing “some of the most important work” of the program, Head Start says. The ERSEA Manager governs how programs determine eligibility, enroll children and track attendance.
“My nominee deserves to be recognized for the many contributions made to the families of Maui County, as well as the staff here,” said Dee Wilson, Lani’s nominator. “This person has a great big heart.”
Dee praised Lani’s integrity, management of her workers with respect and empathy, and flexibility to adapt to the many policy changes in the federally funded program that offers preschool at no cost to low income families.
Lani joined MEO in November 1990 and has held several positions during her years. This will be her fifth Employee of the Month honor, previously selected in 2000, 2003, 2013 and 2020. She also has been recognized with a number of Excellent Client Service awards.
For being named Employee of the Month for October, Lani earned a $150 check and an extra vacation day. She was honored at MEO’s General Staff meeting on Nov. 18. Dee received $50 as the nominator.
MEO Head Start has several vacancies, including for three lead teachers. Three sites have been closed temporarily due to a lack of these teachers. Anyone interested in joining the MEO Head Start team should call (808) 243-4310.
For information about the Head Start program for 3 and 4 year olds, call (808) 249-2988.
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Lani Koki, Head Start Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment and Attendance Manager, was named Employee of the Month for October.
Employee of the Month, Lani Koki (center), poses for a photo with CEO Debbie Cabebe and Chief Human Resources Officer Cliff Caesar.