HI SR81

Urges the Department of Education to establish a vocational education out-of-school program for public and charter school students in grades 9-12, conducted during after-school hours, weekends, and inter-sessions.

Cites research showing quality out-of-school programs improve academic achievement, social and emotional growth, and support children whose working families cannot afford child care costs.

Identifies that 17 percent of Hawaii K-12 youth care for themselves after school and 38 percent of children not in after-school programs would participate if available.

Addresses the state's job skills gap by proposing vocational programs in trades including engineering, computer science, nursing, architecture, hospitality, and agribusiness.

Notes that approximately 1,935 homeless children in Hawaii could benefit from safe, structured out-of-school environments and that other states have successfully expanded learning opportunities through similar programs.