HI HR76

Request that the Department of Education contract with qualified nonprofit organizations to establish aquatic safety education programs in participating elementary schools during regular school hours.

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

Cite drowning as the leading cause of injury-related deaths for Hawaii children between 2014 and 2018, with an annual average of 70 non-fatal drowning incidents attended by emergency medical services.

Note that less than 10 percent of public and public charter elementary schools currently integrate aquatic safety education into physical education curricula, and cite 2018-2019 assessments showing only 31 percent of students could swim 25 yards.

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