HI HR177

Urges the Department of Education and Board of Education to prevent future closure of Likelike Elementary School, a public school founded in 1922 serving the Kalihi-Palama community.

Highlights the school's diverse student population (36.9% Filipino, 15.6% Micronesian, 15.6% Native Hawaiian, 5.3% Chinese, and other ethnicities) and mission to serve families from densely populated apartments and government-subsidized housing.

Notes the school's academic improvements, including 9-10% increases in reading and mathematics test scores from 2009-2010 to 2010-2011, plus programs including family literacy, preschool, and English as Second Language instruction.

Identifies concerns that the proposed alternative facility, Lanakila Elementary, already utilizes all classrooms for intervention classes and partnerships with Head Start and other organizations.

Requires certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Board of Education Chairperson and the Superintendent of Education.