Bill > HB1781

This bill, known as the Hawaii Numeracy Act, establishes a statewide numeracy coaching program within the Department of Education to address persistent gaps in students' foundational math skills, as evidenced by low proficiency rates on national assessments. The program will employ numeracy coaches, individuals with teaching licenses and at least three years of math teaching experience, who will provide job-embedded support to teachers in elementary, middle, and intermediate schools. These coaches will focus on improving mathematics instruction through evidence-based practices, helping teachers identify student needs, including characteristics of dyscalculia (difficulties processing numerical information and performing calculations), and facilitating professional learning. The Department of Education will prioritize placing coaches in schools with the greatest need, such as those serving younger students where early math development is crucial, or schools with the lowest math proficiency rates. The bill also mandates that the department report annually to the governor and legislature on the program's progress, student outcomes, and teacher feedback, and appropriates funds for its establishment, with the program set to take effect on July 1, 3000.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1781&year=2026