Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HR171

Introduced
3/16/26  
Refer
3/18/26  
Report Pass
4/2/26  
Refer
4/2/26  
Report Pass
4/9/26  

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Convene A Shared-decision Making Committee To Develop An Action Plan To Establish A K-12 Kaiapuni School In Kapolei.

Impact

The implementation of HR171 emphasizes the importance of preserving Hawaiian language and culture for future generations by expanding educational opportunities. The action plan requests the Department of Education to coordinate a shared decision-making committee that includes educators, community members, and parents to ensure that the new school meets the specific needs of its students. This initiative not only aims to enrich the educational landscape in Kapolei but also reflects the broader goals of increasing cultural awareness and fostering community engagement in the educational process.

Summary

House Resolution 171 (HR171) calls for the establishment of a K-12 Kaiapuni school in Kapolei, Hawaii, aimed at enhancing access to Hawaiian language immersion education. This resolution aligns with the State's constitutional obligation to promote 'Ōlelo Hawaiʻi and the study of Hawaiian culture and history. Currently, the limited number of Kaiapuni schools on Oahu creates a significant access barrier for students in the ʻEwa and Waiʻanae districts, forcing them to commute to Honolulu for continued education in Hawaiian language programs. The proposed K-12 Kaiapuni school seeks to mitigate these challenges by providing a localized pathway for education in Hawaiian culture and language.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR171 appears to be largely positive, with significant community support evident from local neighborhood boards. The resolution has garnered backing from various stakeholders, indicating a collective desire to enhance educational access and cultural immersion. However, challenges related to funding, resource allocation, and teacher recruitment could influence the successful implementation of the proposed school, highlighting the need for careful planning and execution.

Contention

While HR171 promotes a noble cause, there may be concerns regarding the allocation of state resources and the management of existing education programs. Some stakeholders might voice apprehension over ensuring the school does not divert necessary funding away from other essential educational services. Additionally, the effectiveness of establishing a shared decision-making committee that represents all relevant voices—including parents, educators, and local organizations—will be critical to the success of the initiative.

Companion Bills

HI HCR181

Same As Affirming That The Legislative Intent Of Section 302a-1116, Hawaii Revised Statutes, Is To Authorize The Department Of Education To Create Substantively Temporary Positions Only.

HI SR153

Same As Requesting The Department Of Education To Convene A Shared Decision Making Committee To Develop An Action Plan To Establish A K-12 Kaiapuni School In Kapolei.

Previously Filed As

HI HB1496

Relating To Education.

HI HCR192

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Establish A Native Hawaiian Economic Development Working Group.

HI HR58

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Evaluate The Establishment And Administrative Placement Of An Office Of Resilience And Recovery.

HI HB1352

Making An Appropriation To The University Of Hawaii.

HI HCR64

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Evaluate The Establishment And Administrative Placement Of An Office Of Resilience And Recovery.

HI HR185

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Kailua Bay Advisory Working Group.

HI SCR121

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Convene A Tourism And Gaming Working Group.

HI HR121

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Prioritize A Capital Improvement Project To Construct "halau O Kawaihuelani".

HI SCR51

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Evaluate The Establishment And Administrative Placement Of An Office Of Resilience And Recovery.

HI SR33

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Evaluate The Establishment And Administrative Placement Of An Office Of Resilience And Recovery.

Similar Bills

HI SCR162

Requesting The Department Of Education To Convene A Shared Decision Making Committee To Develop An Action Plan To Establish A K-12 Kaiapuni School In Kapolei.

HI SR153

Requesting The Department Of Education To Convene A Shared Decision Making Committee To Develop An Action Plan To Establish A K-12 Kaiapuni School In Kapolei.

HI HCR181

Affirming That The Legislative Intent Of Section 302a-1116, Hawaii Revised Statutes, Is To Authorize The Department Of Education To Create Substantively Temporary Positions Only.

HI HB1496

Relating To Education.

HI HB1496

Relating To Education.

HI SR78

Encouraging The Department Of Education To Expand The Hawaiian Immersion Program.

HI HR24

Encouraging The Department Of Education To Expand The Hawaiian Immersion Program.