Bill > HR16

This resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Education and Honolulu Police Department (HPD) to establish Junior Police Officer programs across all schools on Oahu. The resolution highlights the historical context of school-police partnerships, noting such programs have existed nationally since the late 1900s, including well-known initiatives like Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) and Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.). It emphasizes that HPD already operates several community programs like the Citizens Police Academy, D.A.R.E., Law Enforcement Explorers Program (L.E.E.P.), and Police Activities League (P.A.L.). The resolution argues that these programs provide mentorship opportunities, access to community role models, youth safety training, career development, and character building for students. Specifically, the resolution calls for ensuring every Oahu student, regardless of school or grade level, can participate in a Junior Police Officer or similar school-police partnership program. The resolution also directs certified copies to be sent to key education and law enforcement leaders, including the Superintendent of Education, Board of Education Chairperson, HPD Chief, and Honolulu Police Commission Chair.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=16&year=2025