Hawai‘i State Senate President and Vice President statement on school closures
and next steps to mitigate COVID-19
Governor David Ige announced today that all publicly funded schools in the State of Hawai‘i will be closed for the next two weeks, until March 30. This includes all public schools, charter schools, track schools, A+, and early learning classrooms. Federally funded Head Start and Pre-Plus will also be following the State’s lead and closing. State officials will be monitoring the situation and making further announcements in the weeks ahead.
Senate Vice President and Education Chair Michelle Kidani said: “Extending spring break is a precaution that we need to take. We know many parents who are working parents will be facing childcare issues. We hope that employers in Hawai‘i will consider making alternate work arrangements for parents such as teleworking so they can stay home with their children if possible.”
Senate President Ron Kouchi said: “I echo Education Chair Kidani’s comments about supporting parents impacted by this change. We must act in the best interest of our educators and students. House and Senate leadership have been discussing the next steps the Legislature will be taking to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and we will be making an announcement early next week.”