More Hawaii Public School Students Ready for College, Class of 2012 Data Show

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Damon

More Hawaii public school students from the Class of 2012 enrolled in college compared to the previous year’s graduates, and they were better prepared for mathematics and English courses, new figures show.

DOE ReleaseThe new College and Career Readiness Indicators reports, released today by Hawaii P-20 Partnerships for Education and the Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE), demonstrate improvements by public school students at every step of the college-readiness pipeline. Among the highlights:

· The percentage of students taking Advanced Placement exams increased to 24 percent.
· College enrollment among graduates increased from 53 percent to 54 percent.
· The percentage of students who enrolled in a University of Hawaii campus in college-level math (24 percent) and college-level English (42 percent) both increased by four percentage points over the class of 2011.
· The percentage of students requiring remedial classes dropped to 31 percent in English and remained at 36 percent for math.

“This new data is very encouraging, and the upward trend in college-going rates is a positive sign for our students and the state’s economic outlook,” said DOE Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi. “Our culture around using data for improvement has changed considerably. The College and Career Readiness Indicators reports provide school administrators and educators with a diverse set of data that will help inform critical decision-making to ensure our graduates are ready to enter college and compete in a global workforce. The improvements on all of the indicators reflect our ongoing statewide reforms and we expect continued improvement over time.”

A number of high schools made significant, double-digit percentage gains in college-going rates over a two-year period. Kapaa High on Kauai increased its rate by 13 percentage points, to 59 percent for the class of 2012 compared to 46 percent for the Class of 2010. Farrington High’s rate rose by 12 percentage points, to 48 percent from 36 percent, and rates for Pahoa and Baldwin high schools jumped 11 percent over the same two-year period.

“The College and Career Readiness Indicators reports are an important tool to measure the college readiness of our public high school students, and to gauge progress on their assessments and college remediation rates. This information is invaluable to the Hawaii P-20 goal of 55 percent of working age adults having a 2- or 4-year college degree by 2025,” said Karen Lee, executive director of Hawaii P-20 Partnerships for Education. “We are very pleased to see college-going rates and college preparation increase over the past three years.”

The College and Career Readiness Indicators (CCRI) reports are an annual collaboration between the Hawaii State Department of Education and the University of Hawaii, coordinated by Hawai‘i P-20 Partnerships for Education, to present information on how well Hawaii public school graduates are prepared for college. Hawaii’s CCRI reports are continuously recognized by national organizations, including the Education Sector, the Data Quality Campaign, Achieve, and the National Governors Association, as a leading example of both collaboration among K-12 and higher education and for providing useful information on college readiness. The full reports can be found at: http://www.p20hawaii.org/CCRI2012

Hawaii P-20 Partnerships for Education, a statewide partnership led by the Executive Office on Early Learning, the Hawaii State Department of Education and the University of Hawaii System works to strengthen the education pipeline from early childhood through higher education so that all students achieve college and career success. Hawaii P-20’s partners share a sense of urgency about the need to improve Hawaii’s educational outcomes in an increasingly global economy, and have established a goal of 55% of Hawaii’s working age adults having a 2- or 4-year college degree by 2025. For more information, visit http://www.p20hawaii.org.

The Hawaii State Department of Education’s mission states: We serve our community by developing the academic achievement, character, and social-emotional well-being of our students to the fullest potential. We work with partners, families and communities to ensure that all students reach their aspirations from early learning through college, career and citizenship. For more information, visit http://www.hawaiidoe.org.

 

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Department of Education Implements Guidelines for Displaying Third-Party Materials at School Campuses

Posted on May 7, 2013 by Damon

The growing number of promotional brochures and flyers being issued and distributed on public school campuses has prompted a new set of guidelines by the Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE).

DOE Release

The guidelines restrict the dissemination of school-approved third-party marketing, advertising and/or promotional materials to the following distribution methods:

  • Posting on a school’s community bulletin board.
  • Placing the brochures in a magazine rack display.
  • Leaving a stack of registration forms at a side counter or table in the school front office.

These guidelines do not apply to programs or activities that the DOE or the school has affirmatively endorsed or sponsored, including programs or activities conducted by county agencies or federal agencies. School resources, staff and teacher time while on campus should remain dedicated to students. This principle is consistent with the State’s Ethics Code that bars use of public school supplies, equipment, or instructional time to promote private business purposes. The DOE is particularly sensitive to any elements that may distract students on campus or in their classrooms.

The DOE recognizes that some parents may want information about enrichment activities for their children such as private tutoring, music lessons or sports camps. These types of promotional materials may be displayed in a designated area at the school. The school may also refuse to display any material that is deemed inappropriate, offensive or promote illegal activity.

The DOE remains committed to ensuring that school campuses are healthy learning environments for students and staff. For more information, please see hawaiidoe.org.

 

 

 

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Hawaii DOE to Request Waiver for School Improvement Grant Funds

Posted on April 4, 2013 by Damon

DOE Release

The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) intends to request a waiver to Section 421(b) of the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. § 1225(b) to extend the period of availability of school fiscal year (FY) 2010 and FY 2011 School Improvement Grant (SIG) funds for the State Education Agency and all of its complexes to September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2015, respectively.

The requested waiver will increase HIDOE’s ability to implement the SIG program effectively in eligible schools in the State of Hawaii in order to improve the quality of instruction and increase the academic achievement of students in Tier I and Tier III schools.

The waiver request is in accordance with the guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Education in January 2010 on using SIG funds. If granted, the waiver will allow the HIDOE to use these funds in accordance with the requirements for the SIG published in the Federal Register in January 2010.

Written comments regarding the described waiver should be submitted by April 19, 2013, and addressed to the DOE Office of Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Support, Attention: Sharon Nakagawa, 475 22nd Avenue, Room 124, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816, emailed to sharon_nakagawa@notes.k12.hi.us or faxed to (808) 735-8375. For additional information, call (808) 203-5520.

 

 

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Hawaii DOE Focuses on Building School Leadership, Creates Leadership Institute

Posted on March 19, 2013 by Damon

The Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE) this month will launch a new strategic initiative to support and develop effective leadership in public schools.

As the DOE continues its strategic transformation, the Hawaii State Board of Education (BOE) and the DOE have created a Leadership Institute under the Office of the Superintendent to manage the effort of strengthening department-wide leadership effectiveness.

“The need for a new approach to school leadership is evident, especially as we face the potential retirement of a number of veteran principals,” stated Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi. “The challenges and opportunities for developing effective leadership starts where the leadership pipeline begins – identification, recruitment, development, and support of school leaders. The capacity to lead and manage change represents one of the largest risks to the Department’s efforts to transform Hawaii’s system of education.”

Doug Murata

Doug Murata

Douglas Murata, the DOE’s assistant superintendent for the Office of Human Resources (OHR) and a veteran senior executive specializing in strategic and change management in Hawaii, has been tapped to head this effort at the Leadership Institute.

Mr. Murata joined the DOE in June 2011, bringing an established record of turnaround management and system transformation for over 20 years. He played a major role in leading organizational change efforts at The Queen’s Health Systems, Pacific Guardian Life, and the Honolulu Board of Water Supply toward improved performance, as well as resource, economic, and organizational sustainability. Mr. Murata also served as president and CEO of Royal State National and Mutual Benefit Trust at Royal State Insurance, where he developed and implemented a turnaround strategy as part of a new strategic vision. Murata earned a master’s degree in business administration, and a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Hawaii. He begins his new post on March 25.

Corey Moriyama

Corey Moriyama

Succeeding Mr. Murata as OHR assistant superintendent will be Corey Moriyama, a Senior Human Resources executive with 25 years of expertise in the private, public and non-profit sector. He is a leader, problem solver, strategic planner in all areas of HR management, process improvement, affirmative action, diversity and labor relations that has impacted 26 states.

Mr. Moriyama comes to the DOE from the Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar (A&B, LLC), where he is director of human resources. He has previously served as the director of human resources at Minnesota State University Moorhead and at the Seattle Department of Transportation. Mr. Moriyama has also held human resources leadership positions at the Washington State Department of Transportation, Hawaii Human Development, Coca-Cola of Northern California, and California Pacific Medical Center. Mr. Moriyama possesses a wealth of expertise in human resources strategies, programs, policies, and processes. He holds a master’s degree in Industrial Relations from the University of Oregon, and a bachelor’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from the University of Hawaii. He has served as an adjunct instructor at Hawaiian Educational Council, Hawaii Pacific University, Heald College, Denver Business College, Kapiolani Community College.

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Lieutenant Governor Tsutsui’s New Hawaii Intermediate/Middle School Challenge Initiative

Posted on March 14, 2013 by Damon

At a press conference held at 10:00 a.m. today, Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui announced his plan to develop a new initiative geared towards enhancing the learning experience of intermediate and middle school students throughout the State.

“The Hawaii Intermediate/Middle School Challenge will endeavor to provide a comprehensive social and educational foundation that will enrich the lives of intermediate/middle school students throughout the State through exposure to a broad base of programs and activities, outside of regular instructional hours,” said Lt. Governor Tsutsui.  “The scope of the program will span academic enrichment, arts and culture, and sports and will be designed to help prepare the students for high school, college, the workforce, their communities and beyond.”

Lt. Governor Tsutsui at the press Conference

Lt. Governor Tsutsui at the press Conference

Studies indicate that students between the grades of 6th and 8th are often left on their own during the hours immediately following the conclusion of school.  Furthermore, studies also show that crimes committed by or against juveniles occur with greater frequency on schools days and roughly between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.  Efforts to increase or improve school attendance, behavior and coursework have proved key indicators in whether a middle school student will graduate.  Keeping our keiki engaged in school and positive activities that will enhance their learning experience will help them succeed in school and in life.

“The Hawaii State Department of Education welcomes opportunities to work with community partners to provide enrichment activities for our middle-school students,” said Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi, Hawaii State Department of Education.   “This is a significant time in a young person’s life, and initiatives such as this help our keiki stay in school and succeed.”

Effective and positive after-school programs provide not only an educational benefit to students but also a social value to the overall community by reducing juvenile crime.  The State has long focused on providing after-school programs to our State’s elementary and high school students; however, successful programs for intermediate/middle school students have been sporadic and decentralized.  In October 2012, the Department of Education (DOE) introduced the Intermediate Athletics Pilot program, to be piloted in the Zones of School Innovation (ZSI) in the Nanakuli-Waianae complex, and the Kau-Keaau-Pahoa complex on Hawaii Island.  Through partnership with generous community donors, the DOE introduced several sports for boys and girls last fall to several campuses.  All intermediate school athletes are required to maintain a 2.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) to participate.

While programs like these will make a difference in the lives of our students, because there is currently no comprehensive program to provide intermediate/middle schools with the support and guidance to implement these effective and positive after-school programs statewide, the Hawaii Intermediate/Middle School Challenge will work with the organizations currently utilizing successful platforms at the various intermediate/middle schools throughout the State, with the goal of bringing these programs under one umbrella organizational structure.

Board of Education member Keith Amemiya, Washington Middle School All-Stars member Macey Honjiyo, and Supt. Kathryn Matayoshi.

Board of Education member Keith Amemiya, Washington Middle School All-Stars member Macey Honjiyo, and Supt. Kathryn Matayoshi.

Hawaii Intermediate/Middle School Challenge will start immediately after-school and is intended to be a comprehensive and structured statewide program to fill the gap of youth activities available to students between the 6th and 8th grade.  Programs offered will be from three general categories—academic enrichment, arts and culture, and sports.  Currently, the majority of existing intermediate/middle school programs is supported by unpredictable federal funding, a more reliable source of funding would provide greater stability for the programs, as well as greater participation.  Accordingly, using a community based approach the program will seek to utilize available federal and state funds, while also partnering with the schools, parents and the private sector to provide funding and resources to facilitate the program’s success.   The partnership with these stakeholders will ensure that the after-school programs will be well established in their respective communities and will likely be financially viable for the long-term.

Program goals include:
·        Continuing the Department of Education’s vision of utilizing a school-community network approach to engage community-wide support and responsibility for our intermediate/middle school students’ education, health and well-being.
·        Providing students at all intermediate/middle schools within the State, the opportunity to participate in before- or after-school programs that will enrich and encourage student growth in academics, personal responsibility and maturity, creativity and the development of social skills.
·        Reducing the number of student dropouts by providing a seamless transition of after-school programs that promote student participation in school related functions from elementary through high school.
·        Providing health, fitness, educational and social enrichment opportunities to intermediate/middle school students.

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Hawaii Department of Education Honors 32 Schools Today for Extraordinary Achievements

Posted on March 1, 2013 by Damon

The Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE) today honored 32 schools for extraordinary achievements at the first annual Strive HI Awards ceremony. The awards ranging from $12,500 to $100,000 recognize schools for significant academic progress for two consecutive years and represent a one-time grant to further improvement efforts.

DOE
The ceremony was held this morning at King Intermediate School, one of the high-achieving schools. The Strive HI Awards were presented by Governor Neil Abercrombie, Schools Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi and Schools Deputy Superintendent Ronn Nozoe.

“We are proud to be able to financially recognize the hard work of the teachers, students and staff of these schools,” Supt. Kathryn Matayoshi said. “The Strive HI Awards reflect that the department is not only focused on intervention in current priority schools, but also encourages other schools across the islands to keep striving high.”

The following schools earned the highest single awards of $100,000 for exiting “restructuring” – a sanction under the No Child Left Behind law – by meeting annual progress goals for two consecutive years:

  • Hilo Intermediate School
  • King Intermediate School
  • Moanalua Middle School
  • Halau Ku Mana Public Charter School (Oahu)
  • Waters of Life Public Charter School (Hawaii Island)
From left to right: King Intermediate Principal Sheena Alaiasa, Governor Neil Abercrombie, Deputy Superintendent Ronn Nozoe, State Sen. Jill Tokuda, Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi, Hawaii State Board of Education Chairman Donald Horner, and Castle-Kahuku Complex Area Superintendent Lea Albert at the Strive HI Awards ceremony.

From left to right: King Intermediate Principal Sheena Alaiasa, Governor Neil Abercrombie, Deputy Superintendent Ronn Nozoe, State Sen. Jill Tokuda, Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi, Hawaii State Board of Education Chairman Donald Horner, and Castle-Kahuku Complex Area Superintendent Lea Albert at the Strive HI Awards ceremony.

Awards of $50,000 were given to two elementary schools exiting restructuring, Benjamin Parker and Nanakuli.

“I want to congratulate the principals, teachers, staff, and students at these Strive HI schools for leading the charge in transforming our public education system,” Gov. Abercrombie said. “They are setting an excellent example by showing what can be achieved when everyone strives higher toward a common goal.”

The Strive HI Awards also celebrated schools that ranked in the top 5 percent in the state for reading or math growth, providing grants of $12,500 for each subject area – or $25,000 for schools reaching the mark in both subjects. These high-performing schools are boosting student reading and/or math proficiency at the fastest pace among all Hawaii public schools.

On top of exiting restructuring, Nanakuli won an extra $25,000 for finishing in the top 5 percent in both reading and math growth, bringing its total award to $75,000. Parker, which also left restructuring, earned an additional $12,500 for ranking in the top 5 percent in math, for a combined award of $62,500.

Four other schools also finished in the top 5 percent in both categories and earned $25,000: Thomas Jefferson Elementary on Oahu, King Kekaulike on Maui and Kalanianaole Elementary & Intermediate and Keaau High on Hawaii Island.

Schools receiving $12,500 each include:

  • Aliamanu Elementary (Math)
  • Haaheo Elementary (Math)
  • Haleiwa Elementary (Reading)
  • Hokulani Elementary (Reading)
  • James Campbell High (Math)
  • Kahakai Elementary (Math)
  • Kanoelani Elementary (Math)
  • Kanuikapono Learning Center Public Charter School (Reading)
  • Ke Kula O Ehunuikaimalino (Reading)
  • Keaau Middle (Math)
  • Kealakehe High (Math)
  • Kilohana Elementary (Math)
  • King William Lunalilo Elementary (Math)
  • Kohala High (Reading)
  • Kula Kaiapuni O Anuenue (Reading)
  • Lanakila Elementary (Math)
  • Manoa Elementary (Reading)
  • Maunawili Elementary (Reading)
  • Pahoa High & Intermediate (Math)
  • Red Hill Elementary (Reading)
  • William P. Jarrett Middle (Reading)

The award money must be used for upgrades at the schools, which could include the purchase of technology infrastructure, musical instruments, science lab and equipment, as well as other academic/financial plan-approved expenditures.

“Receiving recognition for the work that we, as educators, goes a long way,” said King Intermediate Principal Sheena Alaiasa. “We believe in educating our future, we believe in our talents and abilities to teach, and more importantly, we believe in our children. To have this honor bestowed upon our school is affirmation that we are on the right track and that we have made a difference.”

The DOE’s “Strive HI” campaign reflects the department’s commitment to transform public education in the 50th state by preparing students for success, leading education transformation and building a brighter future.

Strive HI award funds are part of the state’s Race to the Top (RTTT) federal grant received in 2010. U.S. education officials recently removed Hawaii from the RTTT “high-risk” status for progress in two specific areas, which cover standards, assessments, and data system development and use. Next year’s Strive HI Awards will be based on each school’s performance under the state’s new accountability system metrics that go into effect in the 2013-14 school year.

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Parents Given Extra Week to Return Public School Survey

Posted on February 28, 2013 by Damon

The Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE) is extending until March 8 the deadline for parents to complete a survey to help public schools set priorities for improving programs and services.

DOE ReleaseParents whose children are enrolled in grades 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 and 11 are asked to complete the School Quality Survey (SQS) and return it in a prepaid envelope. Schools have mailed or asked students to bring the surveys home.

Survey results provide schools data on everything ranging from parent satisfaction with course offerings, support services and availability to discuss their child’s progress to whether students feel safe and are meeting their goals. In addition to the parent survey, teachers and students from the selected grades will fill out separate surveys at school.

Results will also be used to measure strategic plan goals for the DOE.

Survey responses are confidential. Overall survey results should be available to schools by the end of the academic year. The reports will also be posted on the internet at http://arch.k12.hi.us.

An informational video about the survey is available online at http://vimeo.com/57619187. Questions about the survey may be emailed to sqs@notes.k12.hi.us. Parents may also call 808-733-4008 (Oahu) or 1-855-276-5801 (toll-free Neighbor Islands) from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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31 Public Schools to Receive Surprise Cash Awards for Striving HI in Exceptional Achievement

Posted on February 25, 2013 by Damon

31 Hawaii Public Schools will receive a Surprise Cash Award for Striving HI in Exceptional Achievement.

The Strive HI Awards range from $12,500 to $100,000 as a reward for schools that have made significant academic progress for two consecutive years, and ranking in the top five percent in reading and/or mathematics.

DOE Release

The awards represent a one-time grant to the schools to further their improvement efforts.

The award money must be used to make upgrades at the schools, which could include the purchase of technology infrastructure, musical instruments, science lab and equipment, as well as other academic/financial plan-approved expenditures.

The Department of Education’s (DOE) “Strive HI” campaign reflects the department’s commitment to transform public education in the 50th state by preparing students for success, leading education transformation and building a brighter future. Strive HI award funds are part of the state’s Race to the Top (RTTT) federal grant received in 2010.

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USDOE Recognizes State Two-Year Race to the Top Progress “Hawaii has shown promising growth”

Posted on February 1, 2013 by Damon

The U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) today released its two-year report on the 12 Race to the Top (RTTT) grantees, which includes Hawaii. The report covers the progress made through August 2012.

DOE Release

The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) received recognition for a number of major accomplishments over that time period in the following areas:

· Transitioning to College and Career-Ready Standards
· Building Better Data Systems
· Supporting Great Teachers and School Leaders
· Turning Around Low-Performing Schools
· Expanding Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education
“Hawaii has shown promising growth in their second year under Race to the Top, and we are optimistic about their framework for continuing this progress,” stated U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. “We will continue to work closely with Hawaii to ensure they are enacting reforms that will improve student achievement and empower teachers to prepare all students for college and careers.”

“We are pleased that federal officials recognize the continued progress in our schools and the ongoing transformation of the Hawaii State Department of Education,” said Schools Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi.

Among the major challenges identified by the USDOE was the delayed principal evaluation implementation. On January 25, 2013, the Hawaii Government Employees Association and HIDOE announced that implementation is in effect and that an agreement on the principal evaluation, the Comprehensive Evaluation System for School Administrators (CESSA), was executed.

“We will make it clear to the USDOE that the principal evaluation implementation is underway,” said Superintendent Matayoshi. “There is still work to be done with the Hawaii State Teachers Association which remains a challenge but I’m hopeful that the State’s latest proposal holds promise for an agreement.”

The USDOE RTTT report does not cover the progress made by HIDOE since August 2012. Those highlights include:

· CESSA Implementation
· Professional Development for all teachers on Common Core
· Response to Intervention Training: A school-wide model of tiered interventions and supports for all students
· A systemic review of new curricular materials
· End of Course Exam development
· Additions to the Data for School Improvements System (an online system of formative assessment items and performance tasks, also aligned with Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Math)
Superintendent Matayoshi added, “We are making significant progress and we’re confident that continued achievements will lead to our removal from high-risk status.”

In late November 2012, HIDOE released its own progress report on its two-year Race to the Top performance and noted that it had completed more than 90 percent of its RTTT grant deliverables. The Department’s five-point plan for student success and progress resulted in major gains. Read more here: http://lilinote.k12.hi.us/STATE/COMM/DOEPRESS.NSF/a1d7af052e94dd120a2561f7000a037c/8b95cbde705830e50a257ac4008397a1?OpenDocument

In August 2010, the U.S. DOE awarded Hawaii with a four-year $75 million RTTT grant. In December 2011, Hawaii was placed on high-risk status. U.S. DOE officials have since acknowledged Hawaii’s progress in implementing important reforms, including programs to support educator effectiveness.

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DOE Announces New Evaluation and Support System for School Principals

Posted on January 24, 2013 by Damon

All Hawaii public school principals will receive enhanced supports and evaluations beginning in the 2013-14 school year under an agreement between the Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE) and the Hawaii Government Employees Association (HGEA) on a new Comprehensive Evaluation System for School Administrators (CESSA).
DOE Release

CESSA implementation began with 81 schools in August 2012 as principals and their supervisors, the Complex Area Superintendents (CASs), jointly set goals for the year. As we worked through the implementation, and as part of our shared commitment to continuously improve and to provide supports aligned with the CESSA, it made sense to expand the implementation to all schools. Additionally, feedback from school principals was also taken into account.

Implementation will continue in all schools this school year with training for all principals and CASs. Feedback from the first year of implementation will be used to refine the system in 2014-2015.

“Effective school leadership is critical to student achievement,” said DOE Deputy Superintendent Ronn Nozoe. “The Department is committed to ensuring principals, teachers and schools have the support they need to reach their goals.”

Each principal will receive a rating based half on Student Outcomes (Domain 1) and half on Principal Leadership Practice (Domains 2-6). The five different leadership and performance domains include:

· Professional growth and learning
· School planning and progress
· School culture
· Professional qualities and instructional leadership
· Stakeholder support and engagement
CESSA is tied to a system of support based on short- and long-range goals for principals’ professional improvement efforts.

“This was truly a collaborative effort by HGEA and DOE teams with a goal towards raising the bar in school leadership,” stated Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi.

This agreement between HGEA and DOE aligns with the Hawaii State Board of Education policy 2055 on teacher and principal performance evaluation. The DOE is currently in the second year of a seven-year strategic plan that calls for preparing graduates for college or careers. Effective school leadership is fundamental to the success of this strategic plan. The DOE and HGEA will continue to work together to provide school principals with guidelines, training and support in advance of successful implementation next school year.

For more information, please visit http://hawaiidoe.org.

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Hawaii Department of Education Begins College and Career Readiness Assessments Beginning Next Spring

Posted on December 27, 2012 by Damon

The Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE) today announced it will administer college and career readiness assessments to all middle and high school students statewide in grades 8, 9, 10 and 11 beginning next spring.

DOE

For the first time ever, the DOE will be able to comprehensively collect and examine college and career readiness data in reading, mathematics, science and English.

“By 2018, Hawaii will rank 10th in the nation in jobs requiring postsecondary degrees,” said Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi. “We are setting a high bar for achievement and delivering optimal tools and resources to accelerate our students’ trajectory toward college and career readiness. All high school graduates must complete a rigorous course of study and be prepared to successfully pursue their dreams, aspirations and goals.”

Starting in April 2013, more than 50,000 students annually will take the ACT EXPLORE test in grades 8 and 9, the PLAN exam in grade 10, and The ACT assessment in grade 11. The new ACT College and Career Readiness System is benchmarked to both the expectations of higher education institutions and workforce. It is also designed to help students plan for future education opportunities and explore careers based on their skills, interests and ambitions.

“The DOE’s decision to administer the ACT College and Career Readiness System for all students in 8 – 11th grades is evidence of their strong commitment to preparing students for postsecondary success,” said Karen Lee, Executive Director of Hawaii P-20 Partnerships for Education. “The data gathered from the assessments will be invaluable as we work together with institutions of higher education to reach the state’s goal of 55 percent of working age adults having a 2- or 4-year college degree in 2025.”

Schools, educators and youth will benefit from ACT programs and services that reduce the need for remediation, align with state standards, and foster student success in postsecondary education. ACT’s unique student-level assessment data may also be used by counselors to improve the effectiveness of student intervention plans.

“A systematic, statewide college and career readiness assessment system has been a critical need for schools to comprehensively measure and support students’ progress,” said Teri Ushijima, complex area superintendent for Aiea, Moanalua and Radford. “The ACT suite of assessments will serve as a key resource for the DOE to fulfill its strategic goal of ensuring all students are on a path toward success in college, career and citizenship.”

The DOE Systems Accountability Office is leading the implementation of the ACT College and Career Readiness System. ACT, Inc. was recently awarded a contract totaling approximately $882,000 for the system’s assessment package, programs, and services for school year 2012-13.

The DOE is aggressively addressing key statewide goals and strategies outlined in the BOE/DOE Strategic Plan. The ACT College and Career Readiness System will generate measurable and baseline data to ensure all students are gaining the academic skills they need to succeed on the K-12 pathway and throughout their lives.

For more information about the ACT test, log on to http://www.act.org.

 

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Hawaii Students Invited to “Paint the Plane” Contest

Posted on September 24, 2012 by Damon

Alaska Airlines is inviting school-aged children in Hawai’i to create artwork honoring the unique culture of the Aloha State that will adorn a Boeing 737-800 in a “Paint the Plane” contest. In partnership with the Hawai’i State Department of Education (DOE) and the Hawai’i Association of Independent Schools (HAIS), contest forms will be distributed to more than 400 schools and 218,000 students throughout the Islands.

Governor Abercrombie at Kuhio School for the kick off of Alaska airlines “paint the plane”

Students in kindergarten through 12th grade from public, private and home schools across the state have until Nov. 30 to submit designs that best capture the “Spirit of the Islands.” A final selection panel comprised of 10 judges representing Hawai’i's government, community, arts, education and tourism leaders will select three top designs. Residents of the state of Hawai’i will then vote on the top three designs and provide Alaska Airlines with their recommendation in an online public vote slated for December 2012. The plane is scheduled to be revealed at a public event in Hawai’i during the spring of 2013.

“What better way to celebrate five years of flying to the Aloha State than to share Hawai’i's culture and spirit in a flying mural inspired by our future—our keiki, or children,” said Joe Sprague, Alaska Airlines’ vice president of marketing. “Whether you doodle, draw stick figures or use a computer for graphic design, we urge all school-aged children in Hawai’i to enter for a chance to share your creativity across our extensive network in the United States, Mexico and Canada.”

The student with the winning submission will get his or her design painted on an Alaska Airlines aircraft, a trip for four to any Alaska Airlines destination and a $5,000 scholarship. Second- and third-place winners will receive a trip for four to any Alaska Airlines destination, and 12 honorable mentions will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship, except for the grade of the grand prize winner.

Hawai’i Gov. Neil Abercrombie attended a kick-off event today with 330 students at Prince Jonah Kuhio Elementary School in Honolulu, along with representatives from Alaska Airlines, the DOE and HAIS.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our students to not only showcase their art, but also instill continued pride for their school,”” Abercrombie said. “This is one example of how the sky is the limit when it comes to applying imagination and art.””

“The ‘Spirit of the Islands’ contest is an opportunity for students to unleash their creativity and innovation,” said Kathryn Matayoshi, superintendent of the Hawai’i State Department of Education. “In a global economy driven by ideas and experimenting beyond boundaries, the arts make invaluable and unique contributions to learning and preparing our graduates for college and careers.”

“Spirit of the Islands” contest schedule:

Sept. 24 – Contest begins for Hawai’i students Nov. 30 – Entry forms must be postmarked and mailed to a designated Alaska Airlines P.O. box in Honolulu Dec.11-18 – Hawai’i residents vote online for their favorite design January 2013 – Results of online voting revealed and winner announced Spring 2013 – Painted plane is unveiled

Complete contest details are available at http://www.alaskaair.com/hawaii, including contest rules, instructions and entry forms required to participate. Entry forms will also be available at the Alaska Airlines booth during several community events throughout the Islands, including the Maui Fair, Hawai’i's Children and Youth Day, Hawai’i Fishing and Seafood Festival, and the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival.

The “Spirit of the Islands” contest is the third time Alaska Airlines has turned to the public to paint a plane. The Spirit of Alaska Statehood aircraft paint scheme was created by a 16-year-old Sitka student in a similar statewide contest celebrating Alaska’s 50-year anniversary. Last year, two soccer fans designed the MLS Portland “Timbers Jet” to celebrate the airline’s jersey sponsorship of the Portland, Ore., soccer team.

Alaska Airlines is hosting the contest in celebration of five years of serving Hawai’i, which today includes daily nonstop flights from seven West Coast cities and Anchorage, Alaska, to four major islands. On average, Alaska Airlines offers more departures in more nonstop markets between Hawai’i and the West Coast than any other carrier (22 daily roundtrips, or 308 weekly flights, in 21 nonstop markets).

Note to media: Photos from today’s kick-off event at Prince Jonah Kuhio Elementary School are posted on Alaska Airlines’ online image gallery at http://www.alaskaair.com/newsroom.

Alaska Airlines, a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK), together with its partner regional airlines, serves 95 cities through an expansive network in Alaska, the Lower 48, Hawai’i, Canada and Mexico. Alaska Airlines has ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Traditional Network Carriers” in the J.D. Power and Associates North America Airline Satisfaction StudySM for five consecutive years from 2008 to 2012. For reservations, visit http://www.alaskaair.com. For more news and information, visit the Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air Newsroom at http://www.alaskaair.com/newsroom.

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University of Hawaii to Receive $3.4 Million for Low-Income Students

Posted on September 23, 2011 by Damon

The University of Hawaii will receive $3,425,674.00 to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education, Senators Daniel K. Akaka and Daniel K. Inouye announced today.  The funds come from a grant administered by the U.S. Department of Education through the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP).

Gear Up Hawaii
Senator Akaka said: “A quality education is the cornerstone to building a future for our students and our country.  As economic hardships hit households and states tighten budgets across the country, it is important that we continue to make investments in education.  With this funding, GEAR UP will help to ensure that our disadvantaged and low-income students are better prepared to take advantage of higher education.”

Senator Inouye said: “I am very pleased that these funds will be used to help prepare students for college. Providing a quality education for our children is the greatest investment we can make in our future.  Unfortunately, about 80,000 public school kids in Hawaii live at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level. The only way to break this debilitating cycle is to teach our young people that education is the way out of poverty, and provide them the means to attain that education so they may improve themselves and our communities.”

GEAR UP provides six-year grants to states and partnerships to provide services at high-poverty middle and high schools.  GEAR UP grantees serve a group of students beginning no later than the seventh grade and follow them through high school.  GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to low-income students.

Through the partnership of the University of Hawaii, the Hawaii Department of Education, local community organizations, government agencies, and businesses, GEAR UP in Hawaii will provide services to nearly 21,000 students between 2011 and 2017.

For more information on GEAR UP in Hawaii please visit: http://gearup.hawaii.edu/

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Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Economy, Education, Hawaii, Kids, State Affairs, UH, UH Hilo | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Girls Fight at Pahoa High School Caught on Youtube… Interesting Title

Posted on May 24, 2011 by Damon

Things that make you say hmmmmm?

Once again… we are having our kids posting fights onto youtube.  This one was posted yesterday with the comment “2 girls in Pahoa who can’t scrap for sh*t”

Interesting title “White girls can’t scrap” in that if this fight was provoked because of someone being white… it could be considered a “hate crime” as well.

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Filed under: Education, Kids, Pahoa | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

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