On March 17, the Hawaii State Teachers Association filed a prohibited practice complaint with the Hawaii Labor Relations Board over Gov. David Ige’s plan directing teachers to return to public schools on March 23.

On March 16, HSTA live-streamed a briefing on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to offer a comprehensive overview of where things currently stood, and what questions and concerns we posed to the HIDOE.

With Hawaii and the United States in declared states of emergency, the Hawaii State Teachers Association is taking action to ensure our members’ contractual rights, and health and well-being are protected.

On March 13, the HSTA sent communication to both the HIDOE and all 37 public charter schools regarding their obligation to consult and/or bargain with the HSTA regarding the wages, hours, and working conditions of our members.

We understand the impact these changes can have on our membership and community. While we always hope that conditions will improve, the future of the virus and its impact on our islands remain uncertain. We have to make decisions based on the facts and information we have at this time, no matter how difficult.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has been receiving questions from concerned members regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) and its potential arrival on school campuses.