Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR38

Introduced
3/7/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Introduced
3/7/24  

Caption

Urging The Department Of Education To Implement A Hawaiian Language Requirement As Part Of The High School Graduation Requirements, Consistent With Existing English Graduation Requirements

Impact

If adopted, SCR38 could impact state laws concerning educational requirements and policies, potentially leading to the integration of Hawaiian language programs within the current framework of high school curricula. It would signify a commitment to preserving and promoting the Hawaiian culture and language, aligning educational practices with cultural heritage. The resolution could also influence other educational policies, encouraging a broader inclusion of cultural languages in state educational requirements.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 38 (SCR38) urges the Department of Education in Hawaii to implement a requirement for students to learn the Hawaiian language ('olelo Hawaii') as part of their high school graduation criteria, alongside existing English requirements. This initiative is rooted in an effort to revitalize the Hawaiian language, which historically faced decline due to previous educational policies that favored English instruction over native languages. The bill acknowledges the historical significance of 'olelo Hawaii' as an integral part of Hawaiian identity and culture.

Contention

While SCR38 aims to support the Hawaiian language revitalization movement, it may encounter challenges concerning implementation logistics, such as the availability of qualified educators and curriculum resources. Critics might argue that adding a Hawaiian language requirement could impose additional burdens on students and schools, especially where resources are already stretched thin. Nonetheless, proponents highlight the importance of linguistic diversification and cultural education as essential to the community's identity.

Companion Bills

HI SR26

Same As Urging The Department Of Education To Implement A Hawaiian Language Requirement As Part Of The High School Graduation Requirements, Consistent With Existing English Graduation Requirements

Previously Filed As

HI SR26

Urging The Department Of Education To Implement A Hawaiian Language Requirement As Part Of The High School Graduation Requirements, Consistent With Existing English Graduation Requirements

HI SCR208

Requesting The Department Of Education To Require That Each Student Complete Two Years Of Hawaiian Language Instruction As A Graduation Requirement.

HI SR184

Requesting The Department Of Education To Require That Each Student Complete Two Years Of Hawaiian Language Instruction As A Graduation Requirement.

HI SB3269

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI HB1794

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI SB613

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI HB1460

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI HCR2020

English language education; requirements

HI HCR2042

English language education; requirements

HI SCR1026

Schools; English language learners; requirements.

Similar Bills

HI HB2491

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI SB1317

Relating To Public Land Trust Funds.

HI HB1266

Relating To Public Land Trust Funds.

HI SB1413

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI HCR32

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.

HI HR21

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.

HI HB1128

Relating To Support For Traditional Native Speakers Of Hawaiian.

HI SB392

Relating To Support For Traditional Native Speakers Of Hawaiian.