Fern Yoshida

This document details the successful transformation of Dole Middle School's high-need community, achieved through a strategic framework based on four key pillars. These pillars encompass integrated student supports, engaging opportunities for academic enrichment, fostering robust family and community relationships, and promoting inclusive leadership with broad stakeholder involvement. The initiative resulted in measurable improvements in student attendance, academic outcomes, and overall school safety.

Kahalu Elementary's strategic framework focuses on building a culture of Aloha, serving as a compass for all school activities. This initiative involves integrating the 'Leader In Me' curriculum to empower students with leadership skills, fostering personal mission statements and goal-setting. The school has developed a new mission, vision, and collective commitments, all rooted in the principle of Aloha. Key focus areas include cultivating 'four aloha buckets': promoting love for self, others, community, and extending Aloha globally. The implementation of this framework has led to significant improvements in academic scores and a reduction in behavioral referrals, aiming to prepare students to lead with Aloha and positively impact the world.

This document outlines the vision for Pahoa High and Intermediate School, focusing on becoming a 'kipuka' (place of refuge) by anchoring in community values and fostering a supportive environment. The school's strategic direction is built upon four core values: Pono, Lama, Kana, and Pelina. This approach aims to improve student behavior, attendance, and academic outcomes by prioritizing relationships, addressing basic student needs, and fostering a strong sense of community and support for students and families.

This report presents the findings and recommendations of the Committee on Weights XI concerning the Weighted Student Formula (WSF) for the 2020-21 and 2021-2022 school years and beyond. Key recommendations include doubling the weighted factor for neighbor island students and prioritizing additional legislative funding to increase support for English Learner and homeless students. The report also addresses critical policy development areas for the Board of Education, focusing on achieving financial adequacy and equity within the public education system by effectively distributing resources based on student needs and school characteristics.

The Strategic Plan 2023-2029 serves as the State's blueprint for public education. It aims to foster lifelong learners, compassionate and ethical citizens, and a populace ready for college and their careers. The plan focuses on equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to be globally competitive and locally committed, capable of thriving in the international arena while positively impacting their Hawaiian communities. The Weighted Student Formula is designed to align with these strategic objectives by ensuring equitable and reliable funding for schools.