HI HR24

Encourages the Department of Education to work with the Office of Hawaiian Education to expand Ka Papahana Kaiapuni (Hawaiian immersion) programs in public schools and create teacher pathways based on available funding.

Ka Papahana Kaiapuni schools provide kindergarten through 12th grade Hawaiian language education, connecting students with Hawaiian ways of knowing and cultural identity.

Enrollment in Hawaiian immersion schools has grown by approximately 1,400 students over the past decade, while dedicated resources have consistently declined.

Addresses the ongoing shortage of qualified teachers as a key barrier to the success and expansion of Hawaiian immersion programs.

Requests the Department of Education consider expanding K-12 instruction across complex districts based on data analysis of community needs, with certified copies sent to the Board of Education Chairperson and Superintendent.