New public pre-K classrooms to open statewide

HONOLULU (KHON2) — In August, the state will see the opening of 44 new public preschool classrooms, with at least one located on each island.

This expansion will create 820 additional seats, increasing the total number of preschool spots to 1,767 statewide. 34 of the new classrooms will be situated in Title I schools.

These new classrooms mark the first-time preschools will open in Kaneohe, Pearl City, Makakilo, South Maui, and West Molokai.

“This is the most public preschools the state has ever opened in one year. It’s a testament to the need for early learning opportunities across our state to ensure that every child can be ready for their future,” Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke said. “The 820 pre-K seats being added this year is just one step in our continuous work to ensure that every keiki, now and in the future, has the tools and learning opportunities to succeed.”

This record number of new pre-K classrooms are being led by Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, the lead of the state’s “Ready Keiki,” the Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL), and “Ready Keiki” partners.

The new classrooms will be established at the following campuses:

Hawaiʻi Island

• Hoʻokena Elementary School
• Kahakai Elementary School
• Nāʻālehu Elementary School
• Pa’auilo Elementary School

Kauaʻi

• Kapaʻa Elementary School

Maui

• Haʻikū Elementary School
• Kīhei Elementary School
• Princess Nāhiʻenaʻena Elementary School
• Wailuku Elementary School

Molokai

• Maunaloa Elementary School

Lanai

• Lanai High and Elementary School

Oʻahu

• ʻĀina Haina Elementary School
• Ala Wai Elementary School
• Alvah Scott Elementary School
• Ben Parker Elementary School
• Blanche Pope Elementary School
• Hahaʻione Elementary School
• Honowai Elementary School
• ʻIliahi Elementary School
• Kaʻala Elementary School
• Kāhala Elementary School
• Kainalu Elementary School
• Kauluwela Elementary School
• Koko Head Elementary School
• Kūhiō Elementary School
• Lanakila Elementary School
• Leihōkū Elementary School
• Mauka Lani Elementary School
• Nānāikapono Elementary School
• Noelani Elementary School
• Pearl City Elementary School
• Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary School
• Red Hill Elementary School
• Solomon Elementary School
• Waiʻanae Elementary School

Each classroom will accommodate up to 20 students aged 3 to 4, prioritizing those in foster care, experiencing homelessness or other at-risk situations, those eligible for special education, and dual or multi-language learners.

To apply, visit their website, or call EOEL at (808) 784-5350.