This bill requests the Hawaii Departments of Land and Natural Resources and Education to create a permanent, statewide program for planting and maintaining trees on public school campuses. The initiative aims to address rising campus temperatures and improve equity by ensuring schools in lower-income areas receive adequate shade and cooling. Key provisions include establishing long-term funding, planning for tree maintenance, and selecting species that provide durable climate and health benefits. The resolution also supports creating dedicated staff positions to manage and sustain the collaborative effort.
This House Resolution (HR 14) requests the Hawaii Board of Education and State Public Charter School Commission to prepare a report addressing facility access challenges for public charter schools. The report must analyze why unused state facilities aren't being identified, propose policy changes to connect charters with available space (including underused public school buildings), and assess financing options like federal funds or bonds. It directly affects Hawaii's growing public charter school sector, which serves over 1,300 students but often operates in temporary or unstable facilities. The resolution requires the report to be submitted to the Legislature by early 2027, focusing on practical solutions rather than creating new laws.
This House Resolution (HR 15) requests collaboration between Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources, Department of Education, and State Public Charter School Commission to create a student-led coral stewardship program. The program would educate students and the public about reef-safe sunscreen practices (avoiding harmful chemicals like oxybenzone) and promote coral reef protection at state beaches. It requires the departments to develop the program and submit a report to the Legislature by early 2027, including student input and recommendations for future action. The initiative directly affects public charter schools and students, focusing on voluntary education rather than enforcement.
This House Resolution asks the Hawaii Department of Transportation to fix and update its administrative rules for the Driver Education Program based on recommendations from an auditor's report. The bill directly affects driver education instructors, schools, and students by addressing issues like outdated curriculum certification and inconsistent oversight that have existed for over twenty years. The Department must establish task forces to certify required curricula, develop clear policies and procedures, and submit a progress report to the Legislature by early 2027. This action aims to bring the program into compliance with existing laws and ensure consistent standards across the state.
This House Resolution urges the Honolulu Department of Transportation Services to install raised crosswalks at three specific intersections near Ala Wai Elementary School to enhance pedestrian safety. The measure targets University Avenue, Lauiki Street, and Kamoku Street where they cross Hihiwai Street, areas with high foot traffic from students, families, and residents. Raised crosswalks are recommended because they physically slow vehicles, increase visibility for drivers, and address current safety concerns like confusing three-way stops and inadequate traffic control. The resolution is non-binding and directs copies to city officials and school leaders to encourage implementation of this safety improvement.
This bill requests the Hawaii Department of Education to create a standardized emergency response plan for immigration enforcement activities occurring within 1,000 feet of public schools or at school-related events. The plan would provide clear guidance to school staff on how to handle encounters with federal immigration officers while prioritizing student safety and minimizing disruption to learning. Key provisions include protocols for enforcement presence, student protection measures, communication with parents, staff training, and coordination with state agencies. The resolution also mandates periodic reviews of the plan to ensure it remains current with changing laws and best practices.
This bill is a commendation resolution that recognizes Waialua Robotics Team 359 - Hawaiian Kids for their achievements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It highlights the team's success in competitive robotics events, including winning the 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition Hawaii Regional and receiving multiple awards. The resolution formally congratulates the students and their supporters for their dedication to STEM education and community outreach efforts.
This House Resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Education to develop and implement initiatives aimed at improving teacher retention across the state. It calls for the department to conduct research on factors contributing to teacher attrition, including compensation and housing challenges, and to establish an advisory board with diverse representation from educators, students, and community members. The resolution also encourages expanded recognition and appreciation efforts for teachers throughout the year. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal request for the department to take action on this issue.
This House Resolution honors Earl Kawa'a for his lifelong dedication to preserving the Hawaiian language and culture. The bill formally recognizes his contributions as a native speaker, educator, and community leader who has mentored future generations through workshops and cultural programs. It highlights his specific achievements, including his work with Kamehameha Schools, his service in the Peace Corps, and his development of the "Board and Stone in Every Home" initiative. The resolution expresses the legislature's appreciation for his legacy and extends its warmest aloha to him.
This House Resolution requests the Hawaii Department of Education to create a standardized swimmer classification system for public schools to improve water safety education. The bill directs the department to adopt a framework developed by Leahi Swim School and Na Kama Kai, which defines three proficiency levels: Swimmer, Water Safe Individual, and Water Smart Individual. Each level includes specific criteria such as swimming distances, treading water duration, stroke proficiency, and knowledge of ocean safety and environmental responsibility. The resolution aims to ensure consistent water-safety benchmarks across schools for physical education, athletics, and enrichment programs.
