HI SR74

Urges the University of Hawaii to develop and implement undergraduate teacher education degree programs on each neighbor island.

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

Notes that neighbor island school complexes have the highest percentages of emergency hires, including 35% in Lanai, 19% in Hana, and 15% in Molokai.

Directs the University of Hawaii to gather data on subject area needs from current K-12 teachers, establish pathways with high schools, and expand distance learning opportunities.

Requires copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Board of Regents of the University of Hawaii, the University of Hawaii System President, the Board of Education, and the Superintendent of Education.