HI HR92

Urges the University of Hawaii to develop and implement undergraduate teacher education degree programs on each neighbor island (Maui, Hawaii, Kauai, Lanai, and Molokai).

Addresses statewide teacher shortage with 508 emergency hires and 521 unfilled vacancies during the 2018-2019 school year, with Hawaii education program graduates declining from 544 in 2012-2013 to 380 in 2017-2018.

Notes neighbor islands experiencing critical staffing shortages, including 35% emergency hire rate in Lanai, 19% in Hana, and 15% in Molokai, with no state-approved undergraduate teacher education programs currently available on any neighbor island.

Directs the University of Hawaii to gather data from current K-12 teachers on subject area needs, establish partnerships with neighbor island school complexes for teacher education pathways, and expand distance learning opportunities.

Requires certified copies of the resolution be sent to the University of Hawaii Board of Regents, Board of Education, and Department of Education leadership.