Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR112

Introduced
3/16/26  
Refer
3/19/26  
Report Pass
4/8/26  
Engrossed
4/9/26  
Refer
4/10/26  
Report Pass
4/20/26  

Caption

Requesting The University Of Hawaii System, In Collaboration With The Department Of Education And Other Institutions Of Higher Education, To Require Completion Of Comprehensive Coursework In Reading, Language, And Literacy As A Condition For Graduation From Any State-approved Educator Preparation Program Leading To Teacher Licensure.

Impact

If enacted, SCR112 will significantly impact the standards for educator preparation programs across Hawaii. Institutions offering state-approved programs will be required to implement the comprehensive literacy coursework focused on evidence-based reading instruction. This change is expected to align teacher preparation with scientific understanding of how reading is best taught, particularly addressing common gaps among prospective educators in mastering effective literacy instruction techniques.

Summary

SCR112 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that seeks to enhance the quality of teacher education programs in Hawaii by mandating comprehensive coursework in reading, language, and literacy for candidates aiming for teacher licensure. The resolution acknowledges literacy as a fundamental skill critical for academic success, workforce readiness, and civic engagement. By requiring this coursework, the bill aims to standardize the skills and knowledge teachers possess, thus improving literacy outcomes among students statewide.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding SCR112 appears to be largely positive, particularly among proponents who believe that the requirement will strengthen educational outcomes in literacy for students and enhance the capabilities of teacher candidates. There is a shared consensus on the importance of equipping future educators with robust training in literacy instruction. However, potential concerns may arise about the feasibility of implementing these new requirements, particularly regarding the training and resources needed for current educational institutions.

Contention

Controversies surrounding SCR112 may focus on the challenge of integrating these mandatory requirements into existing educator preparation programs. Critics may assert that imposing additional coursework could lead to increased pressures on teacher candidates and institutions. Furthermore, there might be debates over the adequacy of resources and support systems necessary to ensure educators are not only trained according to the new standards but are also effective in delivering high-quality literacy instruction. The resolution emphasizes the need for collaboration among the University of Hawaii System, Department of Education, and other higher education institutions to successfully implement these changes.

Companion Bills

HI SR105

Same As Requesting The University Of Hawaii System, In Collaboration With The Department Of Education And Other Institutions Of Higher Education, To Require Completion Of Comprehensive Coursework In Reading, Language, And Literacy As A Condition For Graduation From Any State-approved Educator Preparation Program Leading To Teacher Licensure.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR66

Requesting The Department Of Education To Develop And Implement A Statewide Financial Literacy Curricula Plan For Public High School Students.

HI SR44

Requesting The Department Of Education To Develop And Implement A Statewide Financial Literacy Curricula Plan For Public High School Students.

HI HCR75

Requesting The Department Of Education And University Of Hawaii To Assess The Criteria Required To Establish An Educational Pipeline And Curriculum To Ensure That Students Acquire The Necessary Skills In Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity.

HI HR67

Requesting The Department Of Education And University Of Hawaii To Assess The Criteria Required To Establish An Educational Pipeline And Curriculum To Ensure That Students Acquire The Necessary Skills In Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity.

HI HCR124

Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.

HI HR120

Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.

HI SCR79

Requesting The Department Of Education To Conduct A Study On Whether Teachers And School Personnel Should Be Trained In The Use Of, And Be Equipped With, Pepper Spray.

HI SCR193

Requesting The University Of Hawaii Community Colleges To Develop A Comprehensive List Of Bachelor's Degree Programs And Other Innovative Workforce Development Pathways That Directly Align With Job Opportunities And Industry Needs Within Their Respective Region Of Service.

HI HCR86

Requesting The Department Of Education To Report On The Implementation Of Aloha-based Civic Education Initiatives In Hawaii's Public Schools.

HI SR62

Requesting The Department Of Education To Conduct A Study On Whether Teachers And School Personnel Should Be Trained In The Use Of, And Be Equipped With, Pepper Spray.

Similar Bills

NM SB37

High Quality Literacy Instruction Act

MI HR0199

A resolution to declare October 2025 as Health Literacy Month in the state of Michigan.

HI SR192

Requesting The Board Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Education, To Revise Public High School Graduation Requirements To Include Successful Completion Of A Standalone Financial Literacy Course.

HI SCR195

Requesting The Board Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Education, To Revise Public High School Graduation Requirements To Include Successful Completion Of A Standalone Financial Literacy Course.

CA SB1048

State Seal of Climate Literacy.

HI HB936

Relating To Financial Literacy.

HI SB1277

Relating To Financial Literacy.

HI SB1277

Relating To Financial Literacy.