STATE OF HAWAII
BOARD OF EDUCATION
GENERAL BUSINESS MEETING

MINUTES

Thursday, January 20, 2022
*The Board did not meet at a physical location. As part of the response to the threat of COVID-19, Governor David Ige issued an Emergency Proclamation dated December 29, 2021, suspending the requirement of having at least one meeting location open to the public, pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 92-3.7, to enable boards to conduct meetings without any board members or members of the public physically present in the same location.

PRESENT:
Catherine Payne, Chairperson
Kenneth Uemura, Vice Chairperson
Bill Arakaki
Shanty Asher
Kaimana Barcarse
Lyla Berg
Lynn Fallin
Kili Namauʻu
Bruce Voss

EXCUSED:
None

ALSO PRESENT:
Kyla Musso, Student Representative
Colonel Angenene L. Robertson, Military Representative
Keith Hayashi, Interim Superintendent, Department of Education
Randall Tanaka, Assistant Superintendent, Office of Facilities and Operations, Department of Education
Phyllis Unebasami, Deputy Superintendent, Department of Education
Alison Kunishige, Executive Director
Kenyon Tam, Board Analyst
Regina Pascua, Executive Secretary
Lady Garrett, Secretary


I. Call to Order

Board Chairperson Catherine Payne called the Board of Education (“Board”) General Business Meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.

Board Chairperson Payne announced that Board Vice Chairperson Kenneth Uemura and Board Members Bill Arakaki, Shanty Asher, Kaimana Barcarse, Lyla Berg, Lynn Fallin, and Kili Namauʻu were participating in the meeting. Board members did not have others present with them at their nonpublic locations to announce.


II. Approval of Meeting Minutes of December 16, 2021

Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony on this agenda item. No one provided oral testimony at this time.

Board Chairperson Payne asked Board members to review the minutes of the Board’s December 16, 2021 General Business Meeting.

Board Member Barcarse moved to approve the meeting minutes of the Board’s December 16, 2021 General Business Meeting. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura seconded.

Board Chairperson Payne asked if there are any objections to the motion. No Board Member raised objections, and the motion carried through unanimous consent from all members present (Board Vice Chairperson Uemura, Board Members Arakaki, Asher, Barcarse, Berg, Fallin, and Namauʻu).

ACTION: Motion to approve the meeting minutes of the Board’s December 16, 2021 General Business Meeting (Barcarse/Uemura). The motion carried through unanimous consent from all members present.


III. Reports of Board of Education (“Board”) Committees, Board Members, and Superintendent

Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony on this agenda item.

Andrew Henderson, Department of Education (“Department”), testified in support of teacher differentials and emphasized that the Department work on fixing the teacher compression issues.

Christopher Oana, member of the public, testified in support of continued pay differentials for special education teachers and noted that the only option for parents of special education children is public education.

Kahea Faria, ‘Aha Kauleo, testified in support of the teacher differentials for Kaiapuni (Hawaiian immersion) teachers. She informed the Board about two legislative bills aimed to support Hawaiian language pathways, and Board member requirements for a member to serve who has an extensive expertise in Hawaiian educational outcomes.

Board Member and Human Resources Committee Chairperson Barcarse reported that the Committee approved the meeting minutes of November 18, 2021, and the Department provided the Committee with a presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year teacher retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention. He noted that during the meeting, several Board members asked questions about teacher retention, differentials, and vacancies and that he looks forward to further discussions on these topics.


Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony on this agenda item.

Justin Hughey, Department teacher, testified that Hayashi does not come prepared to meetings and still will not conduct impact bargaining negotiations with unions.

Bryan Costa, member of the public, testified that the Department needs to follow federal laws or the Department will face another Felix Consent Decree fiasco and suggested that parents opt out of assessments until children can be provided with a fair and safe learning environment.

Susan Pcola-Davis, member of the public, testified it is time for the Board to hold Hayashi accountable or ask him to step aside because the Department needs someone competent.

Board Chairperson and Investigative Committee Chairperson Payne stated that the Search Committee reported that it completed the selection of the Advisory Group using the selection process described during the Board’s December 16, 2021 meeting. The members of the stakeholder groups include the following individuals:
Board Chairperson Payne also reported that the Search Committee met with the Advisory Group prior to today’s meeting to gather advice and feedback regarding the education system’s greatest needs, areas of growth, and desired outcomes to develop the superintendent job description and competencies. She explained that the Search Committee is planning to hold focus group meetings within the next few weeks and plans to provide its recommendations regarding the superintendent job description at the February 17, 2022 and then will take action on the job description at its March 3, 2022 meeting.

Board Chairperson Payne announced that the Department of the Attorney General has completed its review and the contract has been executed with the National Association of School Boards of Education.
IV. Action Items

Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony on this agenda item.

Taffi Wise, Kanu o ka ‘Âina New Century Public Charter School, testified in support of the Board taking a strong position towards the State Public Charter School Commission (“the Commission”) who needs to make continuous improvements.

Steve Hirakami, Hawaii Academy of Arts & Science Public Charter School, testified that the most important evaluation finding is relating to the Commission’s erosion of charter school autonomy and asked how the Board will correct the Commission’s actions. He noted that funding should go directly to charter schools being forced to sign contracts.

Louisa Lee, Ka ʻUmeke Kâʻeo Public Charter School, testified that the Board should take strong action and approve multiple authorizers.

Amanda Langston, Kamalani Academy, testified that the Board needs to take the evaluation recommendations seriously and emphasized the illegal actions by the Commission against charter schools.

Board Chairperson Payne referred to the memorandum and report from the evaluation team provided at the Board’s December 16, 2021 meeting. She stated that the Board did not deliberate or act on the evaluation team’s recommendations at the same meeting at which the evaluation team reported its findings and recommendations.

Board Member Fallin moved to (1) adopt and issue the performance evaluation report attached as Exhibit A to Evaluation Team Chairperson Lynn Fallin’s memorandum dated December 16, 2021; (2) require the Commission to comply with the outcomes described in the performance evaluation report; and (3) create an ad hoc committee charged with monitoring the progress of the Commission in developing the required continuous improvement plans, making a recommendation to the Board when the Commission completes the development of these plans, and existing to carry out this charge until the Board determines that the Commission completed the development of the plans. Board Member Barcarse seconded.

Board Member Fallin expressed appreciation for the work of the evaluation team and noted that the report took many hours to complete.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura acknowledged the amount of work done and expressed appreciation for the evaluation report. He expressed concern about the absence of comments from the Commission on the report.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked why the evaluation team excluded comments from the Commission from the report. Board Member Fallin explained that the Commission was notified of the expected evaluation timeline in May 2021, and then the Commission requested a three month extension to the deadline. She stated that the evaluation team approved the Commission’s request for an extension for one month including the condition that the Commission review the final report and provide comments by the agreed upon timeline.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked if the Board is required to submit the evaluation report to the legislature by a certain deadline. Board Chairperson Payne confirmed that the Board needed to adhere to certain deadlines.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked if the Commission received the draft earlier or at the same time as the Board. Board Member Fallin explained that the evaluation team provided a draft of the evaluation report to the Commission before the Board to provide the Commission with the opportunity to meet and review the report in November, but this Commission did not do so.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked if adequate time was given for the Commission to respond. Board Chairperson Payne replied that the evaluation team was informed by the Commission that it would comment on a final report.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked whether the intent of the evaluation team was to provide the Commission with a draft, allow for comment, and then finalize the document. Board Chairperson Payne confirmed and noted that once the Board approves the report, the evaluation is final.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura expressed appreciation for the evaluation team and expressed support of the adoption.

Board Member Fallin clarified that the evaluation team ensured that the Commission had enough time to comment on the draft report which was transmitted on October 29, 2021. She stated that the evaluation team was notified by the Commission on November 15, 2021 that comments will be provided on the final evaluation.

Board Chairperson Payne called for a roll call vote on the motion. The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye (Board Vice Chairperson Uemura, Board Members Arakaki, Asher, Barcarse, Berg, Fallin, and Namauʻu).

ACTION: Motion to: (1) adopt and issue the performance evaluation report attached as Exhibit A to Evaluation Team Chairperson Lynn Fallin’s memorandum dated December 16, 2021; (2) require the Commission to comply with the outcomes described in the performance evaluation report; and (3) create an ad hoc committee charged with monitoring the progress of the Commission in developing the required continuous improvement plans, making a recommendation to the Board when the Commission completes the development of these plans, and existing to carry out this charge until the Board determines that the Commission completed the development of the plans (Fallin/Barcarse). The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.

Board Member Arakaki moved to appoint Board Member Fallin as the ad hoc committee chairperson, Board Member Barcarse as committee vice chairperson, and Board Members Namau‘u, Payne, and Voss as members. Board Member Asher seconded.

Board Member Namauʻu asked about the anticipated timeline for the work of the ad hoc committee charged with monitoring the progress of the Commission. Board Chairperson Payne stated that the work would be completed by summer 2022

Board Member Namauʻu volunteered to serve on this committee.

Board Member Fallin encouraged other members to participate and noted that the same group will be working on the superintendent search committee.

Board member Fallin stated that she is willing to serve as the chairperson.

Board Member Namauʻu volunteered Board Member Voss to serve and acknowledged that he is not present at this time.

Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Board can appoint Board Member Voss and he can resign if he chooses to do so.

Board Chairperson Payne called for a roll call vote on the motion. The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye (Board Vice Chairperson Uemura, Board Members Arakaki, Asher, Barcarse, Berg, Fallin, and Namauʻu).

ACTION: Motion to appoint Board Members Fallin as Chairperson, and Board Member Barcarse as committee vice chairperson, and Board Members Namau‘u, Payne, and Voss as members to serve on the ad hoc committee charged with monitoring the progress of the Commission in developing the required continuous improvement plans, making a recommendation to the Board when the Commission completes the development of these plans, and existing to carry out this charge until the Board determines that the Commission completed the development of the plans (Arakaki/Asher). The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.


V. Discussion Items

Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony on this agenda item.

Malia Rossetti, member of the public, testified that her students asked her why the fuel was in the water. She stated that our keiki (children) do not deserve lifelong health ramifications.

The Board recessed at 2:42 p.m. and reconvened at 2:52 p.m.

Osa Tui, Hawaii State Teachers Association (“HSTA”), testified that schools used their own funds to make sure that schools are safe for students and staff and invited Board members to attend a virtual forum next week.

Rebekah Garrison, Hawai'i Peace and Justice, testified and asked the Board to support the protection of water and prioritize the protection of this most vital resource.

Bryan Costa, member of the public, testified that the contaminated water is a failure due to bureaucracy, that the Department is running the risk of lawsuits and violating safe learning environments, and asked Board Members to step on the side and let someone else do the work if they are too busy.

Manuel Kuloloia, Kuloloi‘a Lineage - Ke Kai O Kuloloi‘a, testified that the Board needs to stand firm and support the defueling of Red Hill.

Susan Pcola-Davis, member of the public, testified that the memorandum states that the Department will work with the attorney general to determine what authority if any the Department has regarding its supply of water to schools in the Red Hill area and noted that all of the schools affected by the crisis are elementary schools.

Board Chairperson Payne called on Keith Hayashi, Interim Superintendent, and Randall Tanaka, Assistant Superintendent of the Office of Facilities and Operations (“OFO”) to present on the Red Hill water contamination effects on the Department schools, staff, students, and community.

Hayashi outlined the Department’s response to the Red Hill water contamination situation and its impact on schools. He stated that on November 28, 2021 the Radford complex area notified the state office that school cafeteria staff reported a gas smell coming from the kitchen water. Hayashi stated that seven elementary schools receive water from this system including Red Hill Elementary School, Nimitz Elementary School, Pearl Harbor Elementary School, Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary School, Iroquois Point Elementary School, Hickam Elementary School and Mokulele Elementary School.

Hayashi stated that in response, affected schools stopped using the contaminated and OFO coordinated efforts to provide clean water for cooking, preparation, hand washing, and drinking to school campuses. He stated that from December 15, 2021 and January 11, 2022 costs associated with providing water for the affected school campuses total approximately $15,000. Hayashi shared that the United States Army and Navy also provided water, washing stations and bulk water containers. He noted that the water situation has caused additional burden on staff who have already been impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, additional stress for families who the military relocated to hotels or other accommodations and the challenges of student transportation. Hayashi noted that the displacement has also impacted school attendance and student learning.

Hayashi shared that water continues to be a need for the affected schools and the Department continues to incur costs but will work with the Department of Health and Navy on possible reimbursement of the costs. He expressed appreciation to John Erickson, Complex Area Superintendent of Aiea-Moanalua-Radford, and Sean Tajima, Complex Area Superintendent of Campbell-Kapolei for coordination and support.

Hayashi expressed appreciation for principals from all seven of the impacted schools who in addition to dealing with COVID-19 need to deal with the water issue brought on by this crisis.

Board Member Bruce Voss entered the meeting at 3:10 p.m.

Board Chairperson Payne announced Board Member Voss would be participating in the meeting. Board Member Voss noted that others were not present with him at his nonpublic location.

Board Member Arakaki stated that hearing the challenges and concerns from parents and teachers, whether there is any indication on when things will improve. He also asked how long the Department would be able to provide water, and how long students can last in this environment. He stated that students need to get back to normalcy.

Hayashi stated that the Department is committed to supporting students and families. He stated that the military has started to flush the water system, but the Department will continue to support our students.

Board Member Arakaki asked about options for hybrid or distance learning that the Department can provide to families. Hayashi replied the priority is in-person learning and that the military is providing transportation for impacted students between the school and hotels.

Board Member Arakaki stated that in terms of facilities and water coming into the schools, there are ideas to add infrastructure to the schools itself. Tanaka replied that the Department of Health (“DOH”) is a partner and schools and Erickson are on the ground as a military point of contact for communication. He stated that within DOH, there is a drinking water specialist who has been in contact with the Department from the beginning, and during flushing protocols the DOH safe water branch continues to monitor and test the water results.

Tanaka stated that while visiting Red Hill Elementary School he saw how the military is helping schools and that the Department will figure out how to help support schools.

Board Chairperson Payne asked if it is safe to assume that there is no timeline. Tanaka replied that the Department is following the expertise of DOH while the military continues to flush the water. Board Chairperson Payne commented that this is taking a long time.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked if the Department has determined its authority in this situation. Hayashi replied that the Department is providing water to schools in need and the Department will work on seeking reimbursements later. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked how establishing authority would provide the Department with options to seek reimbursement. Hayashi replied that the Department is committed to supporting schools and will seek options for reimbursement through various channels.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura stated that no matter who has the authority, the Department needs to make sure that it makes water available for schools. Hayashi replied that the Department is not waiting for approval to do what is right for schools.

Board Member Berg encouraged the Board to support efforts and asked how to put the topic of Red Hill on the future agendas. Board Chairperson Payne replied that Board members could request to put a topic on the agenda. Board Member Berg stated that she would like the wording to reflect appreciation for efforts of all involved in the situation.

Colonel Robertson echoed comments of support and expressed appreciation for the Department’s efforts to take care of impacted military and civilian families. She stated that the Navy has posted the defueling timelines and noted that the timelines are subject to change based on progress.

Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Board would discuss the Red Hill fuel issue further.


Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony on this agenda item.

Justin Hughey, teacher, testified that there are legitimate reasons for all schools to be virtual until spring break. He stated that the Department is subjecting children to lifelong health problems.

Cheri Nakamura, HE‘E Coalition, testified that the Department’s leadership is trying to respond to the crisis but it is too little too late because there was no plan and the communication is late and inconsistent.

Drew Henderson, member of the public, testified that his son cannot go to school for the rest of the week because there are no substitute teachers available and that he is a teacher and has to stay home with his son, so now his classroom needs a substitute teacher.

Malia Rossetti, member of the public, testified that the COVID-19 pandemic has made her question her profession as a teacher, she wanted to know why the state office did not make contingency plans, and stated that the state office has passed the leadership role onto schools without guidance.

Osa Tui, HSTA, testified that the data dashboard highlights that the numbers of positive cases in schools are higher and stated that schools are in crisis and being pushed beyond breaking points.

Bryan Costa, member of the public, testified that the Department forces children to be in school while legislators and the Board conducts its business virtually, he emphasized new leadership is needed, and he urged parents to opt out of the state assessment until the Department develops a legitimate plan putting children first.

Lynn Otaguro, member of the public, testified that in-person instruction is most effective during normal times and asked the Board to consider if being on campus provides the safest environment for students during this time.

Susan Pcola-Davis, member of the public, testified that this is the time of the year for students to take assessments and she cannot wait to find out the results and highlighted that the data the number of cases originally reported 3,369 cases, but the Department updated the number of cases to 9,627.

Julie Reyes Oda, testified that on page 14 under 6A there has been no significant changes. She asked the Board to direct the Department to provide full and transparent data when reporting to the public.

Board Chairperson Payne called on Hayashi and Deputy Superintendent Phyllis Unebasami to present an update on student and staff positive COVID-19 case data, the status of school-hosted vaccination sites, the status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, the status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, and supports for school safety protocols.

Hayashi expressed sincere gratitude to staff across the Department working under these increasingly challenging circumstances and noted that the work is exhausting but staff is committed to our students. He stated that the Department would review if there were enough staff to run the school, supervision of students, and safe operations to determine if schools need to transition to distance learning.

Hayashi explained that since the return from winter break four schools temporarily transitioned to distance learning after exhausting all options, including two on Oahu, one school on Kauai, and one on Maui. He noted that schools continue to be a safe place for students because of the structure schools provide and the health and safety processes in place. Hayashi stated that schools also provide access to information on vaccinations, access to testing, and provide masks, if necessary.

Hayashi outlined that the Department provides detailed information on the nine requested areas. He highlighted that schools have been working diligently to provide updated information on the number of positive cases. Hayashi explained that the dashboard has experienced a delay with the increase in Omicron cases and as of January 17, 2022, schools have reported 6,705 cases. He noted that notification to families was never compromised because schools maintain direct lines of communication to families. Hayashi explained that the Department is reporting daily updates to the dashboard and remains committed to Act 4, Session Laws of Hawaii (2021).

Hayashi outlined that staff and student attendance rates in the memorandum capture data from the week after the return from winter break. He stated that the average daily student attendance was 81% during the week of January 4, 2022, and in seven of the fifteen complex areas, student attendance showed slight decreases from 88.5% to 66%. Hayashi stated that regarding staff absences approximately 16% have been absent at least one day since the start of the third quarter, but staff absences are not all COVID-19 related. He expressed appreciation for staff going above and beyond during this time and noted an increase in substitute teachers to 3,922.

Hayashi highlighted that schools are offering school-based COVID-19 testing in partnership with the DOH through two federal programs: Operation Expanded Testing, and Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity. He also stated that the Pacific Alliance against COVID-19 is providing additional testing options for schools in the Nanakuli-Waianae and Honokaa-Kohala complex areas. Hayashi explained that the Department has over 174 school-based testing programs in over 150 schools and the Department is in discussions with DOH regarding “test to stay” options. He stated that for an organization the size of the Department, there are no readily available options to provide tests for a test to stay program, but the recent updates on guidance from DOH and the CDC shortens the required timeline for isolation and quarantine.

Hayashi outlined employee and student vaccination rates and reported that 91% of employees are vaccinated and the Department has started collecting vaccination booster information through the Department’s electronic HR system (her). He noted that the state does not currently require boosters for an individual to be considered fully vaccinated. Hayashi explained that collecting information on student COVID-19 vaccination status is not a DOH requirement for enrollment in public schools and the Department only collects vaccination information for activities like athletics.

Hayashi highlighted the Department’s support for school safety protocols by establishing additional health and support staff positions to support testing and mitigation efforts. He explained that the Department continues to fund 14 nurse practitioners, 15 Hawaii Keiki registered nurses, and the telehealth hotline. Hayashi noted that schools are working hard to remain safe and open during this time.

Board Chairperson Payne stated that DOH is not requiring vaccination in order to attend schools at this time, but asked whether this is something that the Department is considering supporting in the future. Hayashi replied that DOH has a process that includes community discussions and that the Department will continue to work closely with DOH, which determines vaccination requirements.

Board Member Voss expressed support for the Department’s commitment to in-person learning and expressed agreement that the Department needs to determine whether to transition to distance learning based on the needs of specific schools. He expressed frustration that there is no clear direction to schools or metrics for schools to rely upon when determining whether to transition to distance learning.

Hayashi replied that each school is unique and whenever a situation relating to COVID-19 occurs, school principals and their complex area superintendent brainstorm based on their experience to determine next steps based on staffing, supervision, and operations.

Board Member Voss stated that every school is unique and discussions need to happen, but schools need guidelines to make an informed decision about when the Department expects schools to transition to distance learning. He asked why the Department has not established clear parameters for schools.

Board Student Representative Kyla Musso stated that students appreciate the efforts to continue in-person learning. She noted the importance of the Department maintaining communication with students and staff.

Board Member Arakaki asked if there are opportunities for multiple principals to discuss and share information that may affect certain areas coordinated by the complex area superintendents. Hayashi replied that complex areas have not needed to transition to distance learning and that the need has only been for individual schools to transition.

Board Member Arakaki asked for clarification regarding information relating to the percentage of staff members out of school. Hayashi replied that he needs to correct the information to reflect the percentage of staff in school instead of out of school.

Board Member Fallin asked for clarification on the challenges of school-based testing and the plans to rectify the situation. Hayashi explained that the challenge is securing a sufficient number of tests to meet demand.

Unebasami stated that since April 2021 the Department has worked with DOH to set up testing in schools and maintain a consistent supply of testing and adequate staffing to administer testing. She explained that during calls with DOH, the Department was able to get the information on testing solutions for schools.

Board Member Fallin stated that the demand exceeds the system that is in place and that she would like to understand efforts to increase the supply of tests for schools. Unebasami replied that at this time there are several ways to bring in testing to schools, including vouchers for students and families to go to local area testing sites.

Board Member Fallin stated that since there is an inadequate supply of testing the Department looks at attendance rates the impact on attendance for all. Unebasami stated that students in the Department need access to school and that testing will be a part of the solution.

Board Member Fallin stated that in order to keep schools open, access to testing is critical to help reduce stress for students. Hayashi stated that schools are working to expand testing at their sites and parents must provide permission to test students, which can be hard to get.

Board Member Asher asked if there are plans for or standard guidelines as to what happens if a student is exposed and needs to quarantine; whether this situation means that students get an automatic distance learning option. She asked how students are treated when absent and how the Department keeps track of learning during isolation and quarantine.

Hayashi replied that when classes transition to distance learning, schools need to consider the number of days a student is out before a school distributes devices. He stated that if a student were out less than five days, then schools would provide paper packets.

Board Member Asher asked how many teachers have had to isolate or quarantine. Hayashi replied that it depends on if the teacher is a close contact or tests positive for COVID-19. He stated that while in quarantine or isolation teachers are not required to teach.

Board Member Asher asked for clarification about the challenges schools are facing to find substitute teachers. Hayashi replied that he will provide information on the number of teachers who needed to isolate and quarantine but employees are also out due to other reasons. He also noted that the Department changed requirements for substitute teachers so that substitute teachers only need to have a high school diploma.

Board Member Asher stated that having options for teachers to continue to teach while in isolation is important.

Board Member Barcarse stated that school communities vary and asked whether there is a process in place for schools to share information on what is going on in their schools. Hayashi replied that the Department would send out parameters for schools to follow on the options in place for their school communities.

Board Member Barcarse asked if Hayashi can direct schools to share their processes with their communities and if Hayashi can commit to make sure this is in place for school communities. Hayashi confirmed that he would work on processes.

Board Chairperson Payne asked for clarification about whether this relates to school contingency plans or specific situations when schools close. Hayashi replied that he would work with complex areas and schools on the parameters for school closures.

Board Member Namauʻu asked whether the Department is planning to be proactive with testing and at some point have the ability to test students to stay in the program. She also asked what the Department is doing regarding contact tracing and monitoring students who are close contacts. Hayashi replied that once individuals are identified as COVID-19 positive administrators determine who was in contact with the individual for more than 15 minutes to notify those individuals that are considered close contacts. He explained that close contacts are identified then the parents of those students who are close contacts who need to quarantine and monitor symptoms.

Board Member Namauʻu stated that this should not all be the responsibility of principals and someone else should share the responsibility. She stated that putting this task on principals is not a good use of their time and efforts. Hayashi replied that the Department can establish positions but it has been difficult to find personnel to fill the positions.

Board Member Namauʻu stated that she would like the Department to be able to put proactive measures into place for a test to stay program so that when tests are available the Department is able to implement the program quickly.

VI. Late Public Testimony on Board Agenda Items

Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony from any individuals who did not have an opportunity to testify on earlier agenda items.

Brian Costa, member of the public, testified on agenda item III.A. He stated that while talking about what to do to make schools safe, Hayashi was not wearing a mask while in a room with others.

Julie Reyes Oda, member of the public, testified on agenda item III.A. She stated that when employees are unhappy then employees give bad reviews and she suggested that the Department think about how it treats employees to help with recruitment.

Pete Doktor, O‘ahu Water Protectors, Veterans for Peace, testified on agenda item V.A. He emphasized that the Board is obligated to address the Red Hill fuel issue and that the Navy continually fails the public.

David Miyashiro, HawaiiKidsCAN, testified on agenda item V.B. He expressed appreciation for the Department’s commitment to keep students on campus because learning loss is an urgent emergency with a troubling amount of students receiving no support besides paper packets.

Cara Flores, member of the public, testified on agenda item V.B. She stated that the Department is forcing parents to send their children into large gatherings and being told if students are not in school then the students are truant. Flores also stated that schools are combining regular classes and mixing up cohorts by putting students into cafeterias during the school day.

Lisa Morrison, member of the public, testified on agenda item V.B. She stated that she was exposed to two students who tested positive for COVID-19 and not informed. Morrison shared that schools are sending computer-generated calls to parents informing them about positive close contacts who tested positive.

Joanne Powell, Leeward District English Learners Program, testified on agenda item V.B. She stated that schools need to communicate more with parents and asked that the Department translate information and provide interpretations for families who are proficient in English.

Board Members received written testimony before the meeting. The following is a listing of the people who submitted written testimony before the meeting.


Name
Organization
Agenda Item
Dawn ShirotaIII.A. Human Resources Committee Report on: Presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year teacher retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention
Mike LandesV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Lynn OtaguroV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Eric IwasakiV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
David MiyashiroHawaiiKidsCANV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Drew FernandezIII.A. Human Resources Committee Report on: Presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year teacher retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention
Gene ZarroSouth Maui Learning Ohana, Inc.IV. Evaluation of the State Public Charter School Commission
Michal O’NealV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Michelle SasakiV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Patricia BlairV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Logan OkitaV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community, &
V.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Justin HugheyIII.A. Presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention; & V.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Dierl BagustoV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
C. BurghardtV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Amanda Langston-Fung & Sione ThompsonHawaii Public Charter School NetworkIV.A. Board Action on report, findings, and recommendations of evaluation team (including permitted interaction group pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 92-2.5(b)(1)) tasked with conducting the performance evaluation of the State Public Charter School Commission
Derek BishopV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Louisa LeeKa ‘Umeke Kâ‘eo Hawaiian Immersion Public Charter SchoolIV.A. Board Action on report, findings, and recommendations of evaluation team (including permitted interaction group pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 92-2.5(b)(1)) tasked with conducting the performance evaluation of the State Public Charter School Commission
Taffi WiseKanu O Ka ‘Âina New Century Public Charter School IV.A. Board Action on report, findings, and recommendations of evaluation team (including permitted interaction group pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 92-2.5(b)(1)) tasked with conducting the performance evaluation of the State Public Charter School Commission
W. Mapuana WaipaKe Ana La‘ahana Public Charter SchoolIV.A. Board Action on report, findings, and recommendations of evaluation team (including permitted interaction group pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 92-2.5(b)(1)) tasked with conducting the performance evaluation of the State Public Charter School Commission
Osa TuiHSTA, PresidentV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community; &
V.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Kristen YoungV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Maria del Pilar Valderrama CastroV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Kalima KinneyThe Volcano School of Arts & Sciences, Public Charter SchoolIV.A. Board Action on report, findings, and recommendations of evaluation team (including permitted interaction group pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 92-2.5(b)(1)) tasked with conducting the performance evaluation of the State Public Charter School Commission
Debra Kagawa-YogiHawaii Government Employees Association, Deputy Executive Director – Field ServicesV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Amanda Fung (Langston)Kamalani AcademyIV.A. Board Action on report, findings, and recommendations of evaluation team (including permitted interaction group pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 92-2.5(b)(1)) tasked with conducting the performance evaluation of the State Public Charter School Commission
Cheri NakamuraHE’E Coalition, DirectorV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Ted EdwardsIII.A. Human Resources Committee Report on: Presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year teacher retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention
Danica WalshIII.A. Human Resources Committee Report on: Presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year teacher retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention
Jamie HardenIII.A. Human Resources Committee Report on: Presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year teacher retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention
Michelle Lindsey-LewisV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Jenny StevensV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Pam WilsonV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Cara FloresV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Mara DavisV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Jessica Lee LoyV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
Angela Huntemer III.A. Human Resources Committee Report on: Presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year teacher retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention & V.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Jody TakanashiV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Topher DeanV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Desiree RabaV.A. Presentation on Red Hill water contamination effects on Department schools, staff, students, and community
Mara HansonV.B. Presentation on COVID-19 Update for 2021-2022 school year: data on positive student and staff cases, staff and student attendance rates, status of school-hosted vaccination sites, status of COVID-19 testing, Department employee and student vaccination rates, status of Department workforce shortages, supports for students, masking requirements, supports for school safety protocols
‘Aha Kauleo ‘Aha Kauleo Kaiapuni HawaiiIII.A. Human Resources Committee Report on: Presentation on teacher positions filled; 5-year teacher retention rates; and effectiveness of teacher shortage differentials in the areas of special education, hard-to-staff, and Hawaiian language immersion programs on teacher vacancies and retention



VII. Adjournment

Board Chairperson Payne adjourned the meeting at 5:32 p.m.