An open letter regarding ‘The Safety Our Students Deserve’
The first weeks of the 2021–22 school year have been incredibly alarming as COVID-19 case counts skyrocket to record levels.
‘We cannot allow this type of thoughtlessness to continue’
“Yesterday, Gov. David Ige issued an executive order that prohibits indoor social gatherings of more than 10 people. Schools and classrooms were not included. Many of you reached out, frustrated at the hypocrisy of this order, and I agree completely.”
Back-to-school message from HSTA President Osa Tui, Jr.
As you are gearing up for the new school year, a lot of uncertainty remains as we await the transition from Superintendent Dr. Christina Kishimoto to Interim Superintendent Keith Hayashi. This transition, coupled with the guidance from DOH released Monday, has further delayed our official meeting with the department to discuss critical issues that are arising.
Vaccinations emphasized in Department of Health’s updated guidance for schools
HSTA President Osa Tui Jr. says he and fellow HSTA leaders are continuing to absorb the updated guidance, and stressed during a news conference Monday that “our teachers have wanted to be back in school with their students for a while now, and they are committed to making their classrooms as safe as possible for their students.”
HSTA supports continued mask-wearing, distance learning options for 2021–22 school year
The Hawaii State Teachers Association has always said that it’s best to follow the science, and we look forward to seeing what guidance our state departments of health and education issue based on today’s recommendations.
Determine how prepared your worksite is to reopen during this pandemic
School level leaders encouraged to complete health and safety assessment
HSTA advocates for 100% distance learning through at least 1st quarter
HSTA President Corey Rosenlee said, “Hawaii can no longer pretend we are not in the middle of a pandemic and that somehow our keiki and our teachers are impervious to this virus. As teachers, we know how important education is, but we are most concerned about the lives of every one of our students. Online classwork cannot replace face-to-face learning, but it ensures that learning continues and that our keiki and our communities remain safe.”
HSTA: HIDOE needs to clearly explain school reopening plan
The HSTA Negotiations Team meets for an hour and a half with top HIDOE officials Monday to begin detailed bargaining about reopening schools.