SENATOR KANUHA AND REPRESENTATIVE LOWEN CELEBRATE GROUNDBREAKING OF $16 MILLION CLASSROOM BUILDING AT KEALAKEHE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
- mdabu9
- 10 hours ago
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Honolulu, Hawaiʻi - Today, Senator Dru Mamo Kanuha (SD3 - Kona, Kaʻū, and Volcano) and Representative Nicole E. Lowen (HD6 - Kailua-Kona, Honokōhau, Kalaoa, Pu‘uanahulu, Puakō, portion of Waikoloa) join the Kealakehe Elementary School community, families, and education partners in celebrating the groundbreaking of a new $16 million classroom building that will expand learning space and better serve students on Hawai‘i Island.
This two-story, 13,000 square-foot facility will create four modern classrooms, dedicated special education spaces, a covered outdoor learning area, faculty workroom and offices, and two safe pedestrian bridges connecting the school’s upper and lower campuses—a longstanding need for the sloped campus. The project reflects an investment in keiki, educators, and school communities that will benefit generations of learners. Senator Dru Mamo Kanuha said, “While we were unable to be at the groundbreaking in person due to the ongoing legislative session, our hearts were very much with Kealakehe Elementary School today. This project represents years of collaboration and advocacy to ensure our West Hawai’i students have safe and modern learning environments. I’m grateful to everyone who helped move this project forward.”
Representative Nicole E. Lowen said, “I’m thrilled to see construction begin on this new classroom building, which represents a meaningful investment in our keiki and the future of our community. Securing funding for this project was a priority for the legislature because students deserve learning spaces that support their success. I’m proud to have worked alongside my colleagues to help make this long-awaited project a reality.”
Superintendent Keith T. Hayashi said, “This building has been a bridge, literally and figuratively, connecting our school, our partners, and our students’ education. We are grateful for the leadership and advocacy of Senator Kanuha and Representative Lowen in securing funding for this project. Their work at the Legislature supports students statewide, with a direct impact here in West Hawai‘i.”
The building was designed by Urban Works, Inc., with construction managed by the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) West Hawai‘i District Office and led by Nan Inc. Construction is expected to be completed in September 2027.
Together, this project underscores a shared commitment among state leaders, educators, and community partners to invest in safe, high-quality learning environments and to ensure that Hawai‘i’s public schools are equipped to serve students now and into the future. ### ABOUT THE HAWAIʻI STATE SENATE MAJORITY The Hawaiʻi State Senate consists of 25 members who serve staggered four-year terms. The Senate Majority consists of 22 Democrats for the 33rd Legislature, which convened on January 21, 2026. For the latest news and updates, follow the Senate Majority on Facebook, Instagram, or visit https://www.hawaiisenatemajority.com. ABOUT THE HAWAIʻI STATE HOUSE MAJORITY The Hawaiʻi State House of Representatives consists of 51 members who serve two-year terms. The House Majority consists of 42 Democrats for the 33rd Legislature. Follow the Hawaii House Democrats on Facebook, Instagram, or visit https://www.hawaiihousedemocrats.com. Media Contact: Sheryl Turbeville Director of Communications s.turbeville@capitol.hawaii.gov 808.586.6291 |