Bill > HB908

This bill establishes a three-year pilot program within Hawaii's early learning system to provide a home-based early learning program for three and four-year-old children, with a focus on underserved or at-risk populations. The program will use computer-based instruction delivered through individualized software in reading, mathematics, and science, aligned with Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework. A selected nonprofit service provider will deliver the program, which includes providing technical support, installing computers or tablets with internet access for eligible families (those qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch), and offering a multisensory reading tutoring curriculum. The program will feature a validated adaptive reading test, an evaluation measuring child growth, and strong parental engagement components. The service provider must have at least three years of experience administering home-based early learning programs and demonstrate program efficacy through independent evaluations. The provider will submit annual reports detailing program participation, hardware distribution, software usage, student performance, technical challenges, and parental feedback. The legislature will appropriate $750,000 for each of the two fiscal years (2025-2026 and 2026-2027) to implement the pilot program, which will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, with the goal of improving school readiness and children's developmental skills before kindergarten entry.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=908&year=2026