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Elimination of Free Summer School Raises Major Equity Concerns in Hawaiʻi

Hawaii’s Free Summer School Programs Face Financial Uncertainty

For the past four years, Hawaii’s public schools have provided complimentary summer school programs, significantly expanding access for students. However, the discontinuation of federal funding related to the COVID-19 pandemic presents a formidable challenge to the sustainability of these initiatives.

Sherrie Galdeira is a mother who has closely witnessed the benefits of these programs. Her son, who struggled with online learning during the pandemic, was able to transition into the third grade successfully thanks to the support and skills he gained in summer school. “It really, truly helped,” she remarked, highlighting the crucial role of summer education in addressing learning gaps exacerbated by the pandemic’s impact.

In 2023, over 220 public schools across Hawaii offered free summer programs, a dramatic increase from just 30 schools in 2019. These programs encompassed various options, including credit recovery classes for middle and high schoolers and enrichment activities for incoming kindergarten students. Additionally, the availability of summer school has become essential for many working families who rely on these programs for dependable childcare.

Nonetheless, the imminent cessation of federal COVID-related funding raises concerns about the future of these programs. The Hawaii Department of Education (DOE) anticipates that by summer 2026, schools will need to implement tuition fees once again, potentially charging families up to 0 per student. This marks the first significant increase since 2010, with initial fees proposed to rise from 0 to 0 starting next year.

The projected tuition hike has left many families, like Galdeira’s, feeling anxious about affordability. She fears that if her school chooses to charge for summer school, her only alternative might be leaving her son at home unattended while she works. “It’s just too much, too fast,” Galdeira expressed, reflecting the sentiment shared by numerous parents.

As schools grapple with the financial implications of returning to tuition-based models, some leaders are advocating for state intervention. Last year, state lawmakers allocated approximately million to maintain free summer learning programs in 2025. The DOE has requested an additional million to support 2026’s summer initiatives, which could potentially keep the programs cost-free or subsidize fees for families in need.

The urgency surrounding these discussions is underscored by statistics showcasing rising enrollment in summer schools. Last year, more than 27,600 students participated in these programs, an increase from just 7,700 in 2019. However, some schools have experienced stagnant enrollment levels, raising concerns about how rising costs might deter future participation.

Hawaii’s summer school programs serve as a vital safety net for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. Education advocates, such as Paula Fitzell, who leads After-School All-Stars, emphasize the importance of accessibility to summer learning. She warns that tuition increases could further alienate students from participating, exacerbating educational disparities.

As this situation develops, school principals remain hopeful for equitable solutions. Many plan to explore grants and scholarships to assist low-income families with the potential costs. Principal Bebi Davis of Kaiulani Elementary expressed a commitment to maintaining free summer school for as long as possible, even if it means leveraging Title I funds.

The outcome of the DOE’s funding requests is anticipated to be decided in the spring, with many stakeholders eagerly watching to see whether Hawaii’s summer school programs will continue to serve as a critical resource for students in the coming years. The discussions surrounding tuition rates and funding are emblematic of broader challenges regarding education access and equity, particularly in the post-pandemic landscape.

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