Bill > HB754

This bill aims to support community schools in Hawaii by appropriating funds to the Department of Education for establishing and expanding community school initiatives. The bill defines community schools as innovative learning hubs that create collaborative partnerships between schools and communities, focusing on seven key practices including enriched learning opportunities, rigorous instruction, creating a culture of belonging, engaging families and students, providing integrated support systems, promoting collaborative leadership, and being grounded in Hawaiian context. The legislation highlights research demonstrating the effectiveness of community schools, including studies from Albuquerque and New York City that show significant benefits such as improved grade progression, higher graduation rates, and a return on investment of approximately $7.11 for every dollar spent on a community school coordinator. Specifically, the bill will provide funding for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support a full-time equivalent program manager position within the Department of Education who will help implement and oversee community school strategies. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000 (which appears to be a placeholder date), and the funds appropriated will be used by the Department of Education to advance community school objectives.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=754&year=2026