HI HCR75

Request the Department of Education to contract with a qualified nonprofit organization to establish aquatic safety education programs in interested schools where funding is available.

Require the aquatic safety education program be offered to elementary school students during regular school hours.

Direct the Department of Education to conduct a statewide needs assessment to prepare for establishing aquatic safety education programs in all Department of Education elementary schools.

Cite that drowning was the leading cause of injury-related deaths for Hawaii children between 2014 and 2018, with less than 10 percent of public and charter elementary schools currently integrating aquatic safety education into their physical education curricula.

Transmit certified copies of the resolution to the Governor, Chairperson of the Board of Education, and Superintendent of Education.