Aloha kākou,

We wanted to share an update on the petition. After surpassing 100 signatures, we have shared it with our superintendent, legislators, and the Chair of the Board of Education.

Initially, we were told there was no funding available for our program. We are now being told that the Office of Hawaiian Education (OHE) is “prioritizing existing programs”. Waiau is the oldest Kaiapuni program in the state, yet we continue to be excluded. Our students do not even have access to school bus services.

We are urging OHE to reconsider and to provide Waiau students with the 7th grade pilot program, along with the necessary support services—including transportation.

Leaders within OHE, Kauʻi Sang and Tammi Oyadomari-Chun, have the authority to make this change. We are calling on them to include Waiau in upcoming plans and to meet the needs of our students. They can be reached at: kaui.sang@k12.hi.us; tammi.chun@k12.hi.us.

Parents will be attending the next Pearl City Neighborhood Board meeting to request support from our representatives. Please join us on January 27 at 7:00 pm. More information can be found here: https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/events/21-pearl-city-nb-regular-meeting-2026-01-27/. A virtual option will be available.

Mahalo nui for your continued support!