HIDOE extends distance learning through first quarter, but more needs to be done
The extension applies to all Oahu schools and most neighbor island schools.
Honolulu mayor: ‘If I had my way, I’d close all schools for two weeks’
Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Wednesday that he wanted to include public schools in the “Stay-at-Home, Work-at-Home” order that goes into effect on Oahu at midnight, but Gov. David Ige asked that public schools and University of Hawaii campuses remain open.
Superintendent says distance learning decisions up to complex area leaders
Parents, teachers, and even a public school student pleaded with the Hawaii State Board of Education Thursday to continue distance learning at public schools through at least the end of the first quarter, a decision state Schools Superintendent Christina Kishimoto said she’s leaving to the 15 complex area superintendents across the state.
Special programs celebrate the 19th Amendment and women’s suffrage
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, which guarantees and protects women’s constitutional right to vote.
Know Your Rights: Teachers and telework
The Hawaii State Teachers Association believes there is a strong argument for principals to approve teachers teleworking to reduce the number of individuals on campus.
Senators grill superintendent on teacher telework, PPE
During a Senate Special Committee on COVID-19 briefing Wednesday, state senators pressed Schools Superintendent Christina Kishimoto about why more teachers aren’t allowed to telework when students are learning from home, and why educators are spending their own money for protective gear.
HSTA identifies holes in latest order, calls for key actions to keep schools, communities safe
HSTA President Corey Rosenlee said, “There are still no metrics from the Department of Health and Department of Education on the requirements for safely reopening schools or when they should close. We are also concerned with the governor’s exceptions to our public school system. In order to reduce transmission, teachers should be allowed to work from home and no students should be coming on campus. Otherwise, he leaves gaping holes in these restrictions.”
Email the Board of Education, push for changes to keep our schools safe
Despite our calls to the contrary, many schools across the state welcomed thousands of students on campuses today, and additional face-to-face interactions are planned through the week. This cannot continue if we truly want to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus in our communities.
HSTA employee on Oahu exposed to COVID-19
This employee is currently self-isolating and, out of an abundance of caution, the HSTA closed the building for deep cleaning Monday. Due to strict safety protocols that included mask and social distancing requirements, no other employees were likely exposed.
Days before students return, 7 more COVID-19 cases reported at schools
In the last four days, the Hawaii State Teachers Association has received reports of employees at seven Oahu schools diagnosed with COVID-19, even before students return to public school campuses on Monday.