Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR202

Introduced
3/8/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Introduced
3/8/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Engrossed
4/4/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
4/5/24  
Engrossed
4/4/24  
Report Pass
4/15/24  
Refer
4/5/24  
Report Pass
4/15/24  

Caption

Urging The Development Of A Baccalaureate Degree Program In Education With An Online Option At Leeward Community College To Address The Educational Needs Of Working Adults In All Counties.

Impact

The resolution calls for the reallocation of funds within the University of Hawaii Community Colleges to facilitate the establishment of this educational program. It underscores the importance of extending educational opportunities to a broader population, especially to individuals who may have work commitments but wish to transition into the teaching profession. Furthermore, it aims to enhance the professional development of current and aspiring educators throughout the state. This may also lead to improved educational outcomes in communities that have struggled due to the lack of trained teachers.

Summary

SCR202 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution urging the University of Hawaii Community Colleges to develop a baccalaureate degree program in education with an online option at Leeward Community College. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for accessible educational pathways, particularly for working adults who aspire to become teachers. The resolution also highlights the unique challenges faced in recruiting and retaining qualified educators across different counties in Hawaii, particularly in rural areas, where teacher shortages are more pronounced. By advocating for an online degree program, the bill seeks to provide opportunities for individuals currently serving as emergency hires or substitute teachers to gain the qualifications necessary for full teaching roles.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SCR202 appears positive, as it addresses a critical issue of teacher shortages and the need for greater accessibility in teacher education. Legislators and educational stakeholders recognize the urgency of establishing pathways for adults to enter the teaching workforce, particularly as the demand for educators continues to rise. The resolution has garnered support from education associations, which view it as a proactive step towards improving teacher recruitment and retention.

Contention

While the resolution aims to foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including the Department of Education and community leaders, potential contention may arise regarding the allocation of resources and the logistics of implementing an online degree program. Concerns may also be raised about the adequacy of addressing educational needs in all counties, particularly if funding is limited or if there are variations in the support received by different counties. Ensuring that the program remains accessible and beneficial to all targeted demographics may become a focal point for ongoing discussions.

Companion Bills

HI SR178

Same As Urging The Development Of A Baccalaureate Degree Program In Education With An Online Option At Leeward Community College To Address The Educational Needs Of Working Adults In All Counties.

Previously Filed As

HI SR178

Urging The Development Of A Baccalaureate Degree Program In Education With An Online Option At Leeward Community College To Address The Educational Needs Of Working Adults In All Counties.

HI HCR177

Urging The University Of Hawaii Community Colleges To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education At Leeward Community College.

HI HR182

Urging The University Of Hawaii Community Colleges To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education At Leeward Community College.

HI SCR110

Urging The University Of Hawaii West Oahu To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education.

HI SR116

Urging The University Of Hawaii West Oahu To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education.

HI SB895

Community colleges: Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing Pilot Program.

HI SB1504

Community colleges; baccalaureate degrees; reports

HI AB1462

Public postsecondary education: community colleges: baccalaureate degree program: Allan Hancock College.

HI AB1400

Community colleges: Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing Pilot Program.

HI SCR144

Urging The Department Of Education, University Of Hawaii Community Colleges, And Hawaii P-20 Partnerships For Education To Develop Clear Pathways For Students In Department Of Education Career And Technical Education Academies To Seamlessly Continue Their Education In Career And Technical Education Programs At University Of Hawaii Community Colleges.

Similar Bills

CA SB769

Baccalaureate Degree Pilot Program.

CA AB2776

Community colleges: statewide baccalaureate degree pilot program.

CA AB927

Public postsecondary education: community colleges: statewide baccalaureate degree program.

CA SB874

Public postsecondary education: community colleges: statewide baccalaureate degree pilot program.

CA AB2044

Public postsecondary education: community colleges: statewide baccalaureate degree program.

CA SB1406

Public postsecondary education: community college districts: baccalaureate degree pilot program.

CA AB2305

Public postsecondary education: community colleges: statewide baccalaureate degree program.

CA AB1462

Public postsecondary education: community colleges: baccalaureate degree program: Allan Hancock College.