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HR 171

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.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 16 co-sponsors

Hawaii requests Department of Education to plan a Hawaiian-language immersion school for Kapolei, promoting language revitalization and educational diversity in a growing community.

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Bill Summary · HR 171

Legislative bill overview

HR 171 requests that Hawaii's Department of Education form a committee to develop an action plan for establishing a Kaiapuni (Hawaiian-language immersion) school in Kapolei. The bill seeks to create a shared decision-making process involving stakeholders to assess feasibility and implementation requirements for this new educational program.

Why is this important

Hawaiian-language immersion education is part of efforts to revitalize the Hawaiian language, which nearly disappeared during the 20th century. Establishing a Kaiapuni school addresses both cultural preservation goals and provides families in the growing Kapolei area with an alternative educational option aligned with Hawaiian cultural values.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation: Creating a new school requires significant funding for facilities, teacher training (especially in Hawaiian language instruction), and curriculum development during a period when many districts face budget constraints
  • Teacher availability: Hawaiian-language educators are limited; questions exist about whether sufficient qualified Kaiapuni teachers exist or can be trained quickly enough
  • Geographic equity: If approved for Kapolei, other communities may argue for similar programs, raising questions about Department of Education capacity to expand multiple language-immersion models statewide

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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