HI HCR187

Urges the Department of Education to launch initiatives addressing teacher retention, as approximately 50% of teachers leave the profession within their first five years and roughly 1,300 educators depart annually.

Highlights Hawaii's high cost of living as a major attrition factor, with entry-level teacher salaries starting slightly above $50,000 annually and emergency hires earning closer to $38,500.

Notes that during the 2024-2025 school year, nearly 50% of newly hired teachers entered classrooms without full licensure, indicating significant workforce shortages.

Requests the Department of Education conduct research on factors contributing to teacher attrition, including compensation, housing challenges, and regional workforce needs.

Calls for establishing an advisory board with public school educators, students from all counties, and community members to recommend strategies for improving teacher retention statewide.