HI SB500

Establishes the R.E.A.C.H. (Resources for Enrichment, Athletics, Culture, and Health) program within the Department of Education to provide standardized framework and funding for after-school programs in public middle and intermediate schools.

Authorizes the Department of Education to award funding for after-school programs, establish criteria and application processes, monitor programs, and conduct site evaluations to ensure contractual expectations are met.

Requires the Department of Education to submit annual reports to the legislature detailing grants awarded, fee assessment plans, and efforts to obtain non-state funding for program sustainability.

Establishes the R.E.A.C.H. program special fund to receive fees collected from students, legislative appropriations, interest earnings, and other sources to supplement administrative and operational costs.

Authorizes the department to establish participation fees or other charges for students and allows use of special fund revenues to hire personnel, promote activities, conduct education projects, contract for services, and cover associated expenses.