Hawaii Senate Bill SB3269

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/29/24

Caption

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

Impact

If passed, this bill would amend Chapter 302A of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to officially include Hawaiian language coursework as a graduation requirement for public school students. With the first cohort affected being those graduating at the end of the 2027-2028 academic year, the implementation of this bill is anticipated to enhance linguistic diversity in education and promote cultural awareness among students. Supporters argue that this measure will help to ensure that olelo Hawaii is not only preserved but also actively spoken within the community.

Summary

Senate Bill 3269 seeks to mandate Hawaiian language instruction in Hawaii's public schools as part of the high school curriculum. The bill acknowledges the historic decline of olelo Hawaii, the Hawaiian language, due to previous laws that discouraged its use in state schools. By instituting a requirement for students to complete two credits of Hawaiian language courses in order to graduate high school, the bill aims to facilitate the revival and preservation of the language among younger generations. This initiative is part of broader efforts to revitalize Hawaiian cultural practices and identity.

Contention

While supporters see this bill as a crucial step toward cultural revitalization, some may raise concerns regarding funding, resource allocation, and the necessary training for teachers to adequately provide Hawaiian language instruction. The bill's requirement may also face scrutiny regarding its feasibility and impact on existing curriculum standards. Nonetheless, the legislation underscores an increasing acknowledgment of the importance of preserving multicultural heritage and the Hawaiian language specifically.