Frequently asked questions relating to COVID-19 and schools
The Hawaii State Teachers Association is working hard to ensure that information is being communicated in an accurate and timely manner. We are actively discussing our members' most important concerns with the Hawaii State Department of Education and continue to update our frequently asked questions.
Latest COVID-19 updates
Teachers not eligible for COVID-19 hazard pay
While an arbitrator has ruled that as many as 7,800 public school employees, such as school nurses and educational assistants, are eligible for hazard pay for working during the pandemic, public school teachers do not have a hazard pay clause in their contract.
2023 brings new opportunities for a better contract
As we reflect on the year gone by, we know much more remains to be done, and we look forward to continued progress in the year ahead!
HIDOE memos related to coronavirus (COVID-19)
This page contains updates issued by the Hawaii State Department of Education related to coronavirus (COVID-19).
Frequently asked questions relating to coronavirus (COVID-19) and schools
The Hawaii State Teachers Association is working hard to ensure that our members' health and safety remain a priority, our contract and employment rights are preserved, and information is being communicated in an accurate and timely manner.
HIDOE releases health and safety guidance for the 2022–23 school year
On July 26, 2022, the Hawaii State Department of Education updated its health and safety guidance for schools for the 2022–23 school year including some significant changes.
Featured posts
This section contains a collection of important updates that may be frequently referenced by our members.
February 12, 2021
Contact HSTA
If you have school-specific questions or issues, please reach out to your school-level leaders or UniServ Director for assistance. You can also submit your question or report an issue online here.
Links and resources
Hawaii State Department of Education
Resources to supplement student learning
This page contains resources that can be used to support different areas of curriculum. It is intended to provide resources for all ages and skill levels, however not all resources will be appropriate for all students based on their learning level. Read more >
NEA: Creating safe and just schools during COVID-19
To ensure the safety and success of you and your students during the COVID-19 pandemic and long after, the National Education Association has assembled helpful resources to support students’ learning and well-being, professional development, and legal and safety guidance to help educators turn this crisis into an opportunity to build back better. Learn more >
- Protecting You and Yours: Resources educators and communities can use to create safe, just learning environments and protect ourselves and our families.
- Supporting Our Students: Develop the skills and strategies you need to support your students and community during the COVID-19 crisis.
COVID-19 official health information
COVID-19 response in Hawaii
The Hawaii State Teachers Association respectfully asks for your patience during this crisis. HSTA leaders and staff are doing their best to provide you with accurate information, but we often don’t have all the answers when you ask. Our leaders have been in frequent touch with top Hawaii State Department of Education officials and continue to offer feedback and advice on various changes. That being said, we sometimes find out about major announcements only when they are made public. We may need to consult with the HIDOE before we can offer you accurate guidance. Mahalo for your dedication and resilience as we continue to advocate for our members and our keiki.