Relating To The Hawaiian Language.
If passed, HB157 would amend existing educational statutes, making it compulsory for public elementary, middle, and high schools to provide Hawaiian language classes. The legislation requires the Department of Education to report periodically to the legislature on the implementation of this program, detailing the number of schools teaching the language, the curriculum's content, and students' proficiency levels. Moreover, a funding appropriation of $5 million from the state’s general revenues is designated for the implementation of this bill, emphasizing the state's commitment to revitalizing Hawaiian language education.
House Bill 157 (HB157) aims to establish 'Olelo Hawaii (the Hawaiian language) as a required part of the curriculum in public schools across Hawaii, mandating its instruction from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The bill underscores the importance of 'Olelo Hawaii as part of the state's cultural heritage, explicitly recognizing it as one of the official languages of Hawaii alongside English. The measure indicates that while English is significantly integrated into the school system, the teaching of Hawaiian has lagged, thereby diminishing the language's relevance and diminishing opportunities for students to connect with their cultural identity.
The bill is poised to enhance cultural education in Hawaii, but it also presents potential challenges regarding staffing and resources for effective language instruction. There are concerns about whether current public school teachers are adequately prepared to deliver Hawaiian language education, or if there will be sufficient funding and resources for hiring qualified teachers. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on prioritizing 'Olelo Hawaii within an already packed educational curriculum, leading to discussions among educators, lawmakers, and the community about balancing language instruction with other educational needs.