Aloha, HIDOE Community – 

Welcome to this week’s edition of the Ho‘oha‘aheo Newsletter.

Fourth-grade math scores show improvement
The assessment results for the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), or more commonly known as "The Nation's Report Card," were released yesterday and I’m proud to say that Hawai‘i was one of only 15 states to post a statistically significant improvement in fourth-grade math scores, surpassing the national average by 2 points for a second consecutive NAEP assessment. These results are particularly notable as they reflect the progress of students whose early education was disrupted by the pandemic. The fourth-graders tested were entering kindergarten when the pandemic began in 2020, impacting their formative learning years.

The upward trend in our fourth-grade math scores is an encouraging sign of resilience and instructional effectiveness and these results reinforce the importance of ongoing investment in evidence-based teaching strategies and targeted support to ensure continued progress. While we celebrate these gains, we remain focused on further elevating student outcomes across all grade levels.

Update on federal grant programs, guidance on immigration enforcement
The Trump Administration has issued a number of directives in the last week. The Department is monitoring the situation in coordination with the Governor's Office, Attorney General and other state agencies. I have asked our deputy superintendent for strategy and administration to lead a work group to track these federal changes and impacts to public education in Hawai‘i.

Today, the federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rescinded its Jan. 27 memo that temporarily paused agency grant, loan and financial assistance programs. At this time, no immediate impact is expected.

Additionally, we are aware of concerns regarding potential immigration enforcement actions affecting students and families. Under the U.S. Constitution, all students, including undocumented immigrants, have a right to receive an education without discrimination based on immigration status.

We remain focused on sustaining educational services for our students without disruption, and we are committed to our schools remaining safe and supportive spaces for all students.

Honolulu teacher wins Milken Educator Award
Congratulations to Kalihi Uka Elementary School kindergarten teacher Kristy Inamasu for winning the prestigious Milken Educator Award! Regarded as the "Oscar Award of Teaching," the award celebrates exceptional teachers and comes with an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize. She was recognized for encouraging courageous learning in the classroom where all students share their thoughts and ideas, participate in group work, and take ownership of their academic responsibilities.

In honor of January being National Mentoring Month, we are sharing more messages from some of HIDOE’s newest teachers to their mentors. These messages were collected by the Hawai‘i Teacher Induction Center, which supports mentorship for approximately 1,300 first- and second-year educators in the Department every year. The center was officially established in 2012 and leads the only statewide comprehensive teacher induction program in the nation. The Hawai‘i Teacher Induction Center falls under the HIDOE’s Office of Talent of Management.

Maureen Appleton, West Hawai‘i District Office
“I appreciate Maureen for her commitment in making sure that I am supported and her grace that allows me to find my way. Maureen supports me mentally and emotionally, encouraging me when I feel overwhelmed and keeping things ‘real’.” - Haunani Domingo, Waikoloa Elementary Pre-K SPED teacher

Brad Kusunoki, Alvah Scott Elementary
“I am truly grateful for Brad's unwavering support during my first year of teaching. His consistent check-ins demonstrate his genuine commitment to my success. Brad's extensive knowledge and insightful advice have proven invaluable as I navigate this new journey. His guidance is not only reassuring but also empowers me to grow and excel in my teaching practice.” - Madison Zakahi, Alvah Scott Elementary second grade teacher

Leesa Foreman Tidrick, West Hawai‘i District Annex
“Leesa is amazing! I seriously don't know what I would have done without her this school year. My position  is both new and unusual, and she's managed to find so many resources and opportunities to increase my learning. I've received helpful tips on everything from communicating with admin and my program at UH Mānoa to how to make a sub binder. Plus, she's not only smart, she's really funny – and couldn't we all use a laugh during our day? Round of applause for Leesa!!” - Ronit Fahl, Konawaena Elementary resource teacher

Robyn Tanaka, Hawai‘i Teacher Induction Center
“I deeply appreciate my mentor, Robyn Tanaka, for her unwavering guidance and encouragement. She has supported me by sharing her expertise, offering thoughtful advice, and fostering my growth with genuine care and patience. Her mentorship has been invaluable in helping me navigate challenges and achieve my goals.” -Joseph Duarte, Kauluwela Elementary physical education teacher

Julie Solarz, Honolulu District 
“Julie has made the most challenging aspects of my first year teaching feel manageable by simplifying lessons and showing me effective ways to execute them. She is always available for questions and guidance, and it's clear that she genuinely cares about both your progress and well-being. Julie's calm, positive, and authentic nature creates an environment where you feel supported and secure. Thank you for everything you do, Julie!” - Paula Sias, Kaiser High special education teacher

Melani Yagi, Mākaha Elementary School
“I appreciate that my mentor is always readily available and has a listening ear. Melanie has given me courage when I feel defeated and she has given me inspiration to continue in the field of education no matter how tough teaching is. She asks me probing questions that allow me to reflect as an educator to analyze areas of improvement.” -Maria Wise, Mākaha Elementary sixth grade teacher