STATE OF HAWAII
BOARD OF EDUCATION
SPECIAL MEETING

MINUTES

Thursday, July 30, 2020
*The Board did not meet at a physical location. As part of the response to the threat of COVID-19, Governor David Ige issued a Tenth Supplementary Proclamation dated July 17, 2020, suspending Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 92, Public Agency Meetings and Records, to the extent necessary to enable boards as defined in Section 92-2, to conduct meetings without any board members or members of the public physically present in the same location, among other things.

PRESENT:
Catherine Payne, Chairperson
Kenneth Uemura, Vice Chairperson
Shanty Asher
Kaimana Barcarse
Margaret Cox
Lynn Fallin
Kili Namauʻu
Dwight Takeno
Bruce Voss
Captain Lyn Yatko (military representative)
Hunter Harris (student representative)

EXCUSED:
None

ALSO PRESENT:
Christina Kishimoto, Superintendent
Alison Kunishige, Executive Director
Kenyon Tam, Board Analyst
Regina Pascua, Executive Secretary
Irina Dana, Secretary


I. Call to Order

The Board of Education (“Board”) Special Meeting was called to order by Board Chairperson Catherine Payne at 1:02 p.m.


II. Public Testimony on Board of Education (“Board”) Agenda Items

Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony. The following people provided remote oral testimony.

Name
Organization
Agenda Item
Position
Senator Kurt FevellaState of HawaiiIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Angela Hoppe-CruzPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Reyna ViernezPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Renee AdamsSamuel Enoka Kalama IntermediateIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools;
III.B. Board Action on general waiver to allow reduction of the 180 day school year and 1,080 student instructional hours pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 302A-251, consistent with revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar;
III.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health		Comment
Kevin BuliczKauai High SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Robin O’HaraKealakehe Intermediate SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
David Miyashiro HawaiiKidsCANIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools;
III.B. Board Action on general waiver to allow reduction of the 180 day school year and 1,080 student instructional hours pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 302A-251, consistent with revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar;
III.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health 		Oppose/Comment
Allison KohlheppHanalei Elementary SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Burke BurnettPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Amanda LacarPublicIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
Brooke NasserKalani High SchoolIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
John FitzpatrickPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Juan EspinalPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Rebecca Hadley-SchlosserNânâikapono Elementary SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools Comment
Judith RyanPublicIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
Corey RosenleeHawaii State Teachers AssociationIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools;
III.B. Board Action on general waiver to allow reduction of the 180 day school year and 1,080 student instructional hours pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 302A-251, consistent with revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar;
III.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health		Support/Comment
Amy PerrusoCivic Education CouncilIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Susan Pcola-DavisPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools;
III.B. Board Action on general waiver to allow reduction of the 180 day school year and 1,080 student instructional hours pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 302A-251, consistent with revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar;
III.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health		Oppose/Comment
Zan TimtimPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Lynn OtaguroPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
David LeavertonPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Nicole HarrisonHilo Union Elementary SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Justin Manuel BergonioWaipahu High SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Dianne Lim-TamPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Debbie AndersonWaiakea Intermediate SchoolIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
Sharon ValentePublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Cheri NakamuraHEʻE Coalition III.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
Shana LoganPublicIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
Andrew SanchezPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools;
III.B. Board Action on general waiver to allow reduction of the 180 day school year and 1,080 student instructional hours pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 302A-251, consistent with revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar;
III.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health		Support/Comment
John ClarkEwa Neighborhood BoardIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Hoku WardPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Akemia FariaKaumana Elementary SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools;
III.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health		Comment
Cuong DoPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsSupport/Comment
Karly KanehiroJames Campbell High SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Lisa MorrisonPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Elise SwopePublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Joy Gerry PublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Estella BergPublicIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
Kyleigh SanchezWaianae Intermediate SchoolIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
Christine OliveraWest Hawaii Special Education DistrictIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment
Cara FloresHale HawaiiIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Collette CameronWaialua ElementaryIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Jennifer LumPearl City High SchoolIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools;
III.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health		Comment
Vanessa OttPublicIII.A. Board Action on revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar: additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying Students’ First Day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schoolsComment
Henry SakataPublicIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthSupport/Comment
Skye DarnellKing Intermediate SchoolIII.C. Board Action on Board expectations regarding: (1) focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department of Education’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; (2) starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; (3) mandating masks on public school campuses; and (4) detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of HealthComment

Senator Kurt Fevella, State of Hawaii, testified on the Department of Education’s (“Department”) proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern that teachers are not prepared to open their classrooms to in-person instruction. He urged the Board to implement a slow, phased-in reopening approach beginning with distance learning, and warned that an increase in cases due to unpreparedness would result in statewide shutdowns.

Angela Hoppe-Cruz, member of the public, testified on her concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the school calendar and urged the Board to delay reopening school and begin the school year in distance learning mode. She highlighted the social, mental, and emotional effects of returning to school on children and described the ways in which case increases and spread could devastate the Waianae community.

Reyna Viernez, member of the public, testified on her concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the school calendar and urged the Board to begin the school year in distance learning mode. She detailed the devastating effects the virus could have on her high-risk child and family members and expressed concern that the Department has not released clear protocols and teachers have not had enough time to train to safely reopen.

Renee Adams, Samuel Enoka Kalama Intermediate, testified on her concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the school calendar, the general waiver to allow reduction of the 180 day school year, and Board expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and Department of Health guidance. She urged the Department to prioritize the health and safety of students and staff, implement full distance learning, and only allow in-person instruction for at-risk students who have difficulty learning from home.

Kevin Bulicz, Kauai High School, testified on his concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and noted that Board members and Department leadership continue to participate in virtual meetings while teachers and students are being asked to convene in physical spaces. He urged the Board to delay reopening and implement distance learning to begin the school year.

Robin O’Hara, Kealakehe Intermediate School, testified on her concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar. She noted that while some students need in-person instruction, many parents with children who receive special education services or who are high-risk have opted out of in-person instruction due to the health risks the virus poses to children who are medically fragile. She emphasized the importance of teaches who work with these children possessing adequate protective equipment and supplies and urged the Board to delay in-person instruction until schools could procure adequate supplies, train and prepare teachers, and safely reopen.

David Miyashiro, HawaiiKidsCAN, testified on his concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and stated that the Department did not specify its training plan in its meeting materials. Miyashiro testified in opposition to the general waiver to allow reduction of the 180-day school year and stated that the Department should explore all options to maintain 180 instructional days. Miyashiro testified on Board expectations for additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance and expressed concern that these issues have still not been addressed.

Allison Kohlhepp, Hanalei Elementary School, testified on her concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and noted that teachers are not ready or prepared to reopen their classrooms. She detailed concerns regarding lack of temperature checks, lack of screening, enrollment, and increases in case rates. She stated that teachers need more time to train and determine how to begin the school year safely and urged the Board to implement a phased approach.

Burke Burnett, member of the public, testified on concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar, including increases in COVID-19 cases. Burnett urged the Board to delay in-person instruction to prevent community spread.

Amanda Lacar, member of the public, testified on her concerns regarding the Board’s expectations for additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance and stated that schools are not ready to reopen. She detailed that principals need more time to train and prepare staff and expressed concern that the Department has not answered questions or addressed any grievances. Lacar expressed further concern regarding assessments and noted that teachers should use the first two weeks of school to get to know their students rather than for testing.

Brooke Nasser, Kalani High School, testified on her concerns regarding the Board’s expectations for additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health. She emphasized the importance of comprehensive safety protocols, consistency, extra time for planning, and the need to begin the school year with distance learning.

John Fitzpatrick, member of the public, testified on his concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and stated that schools are not ready to reopen. He detailed that many teachers are susceptible to severe illness and expressed concern regarding the Department’s reopening plan, community spread, and lack of leadership. Fitzpatrick stated that teachers should spend the first two weeks of school building relationships with their students as opposed to assessing them.

Juan Espinal, member of the public, testified on his concerns regarding the Department’s proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar, including the lack of a comprehensive reopening plan. He emphasized the importance of decision-making that prioritizes health and safety.

Rebecca Hadley-Schlosser, Nânâikapono Elementary School, testified on the Department’s proposed revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding at-risk students and teachers, increases in COVID-19 cases, lack of preparation, and lack of safety equipment. She urged the Board to prioritize health and safety and delay the reopening of in-person instruction.

Judith Ryan, member of the public, testified on her concerns regarding the Board’s expectations for additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance, including custodial staff and cleaning supply shortages in schools and a lack of training. She expressed concern that her classroom was not sanitized for a number of months despite her requests and expressed further concern that staff would struggle to sanitize classrooms in between students.

Corey Rosenlee, Hawaii State Teachers Association (“HSTA”), testified in support of the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar, the general waiver to allow reduction of the 180-day school year, and the Board’s expectations regarding face masks, additional training, and guidance from the Department of Health. He urged the Board to hold another meeting to discuss questions posed by unions and address concerns regarding the lack of guidance and transparency leading to an erosion of trust. He further expressed concern that the Department is not sharing information regarding COVID-19 cases on campuses with HSTA or the public.

Amy Perruso, Civic Education Council, testified on revisions to the Department’s 2020-2021 school calendar and asked the Board to consider delaying school reopening and implementing a phased approach beginning with distance learning. Perruso highlighted reopening plans proposed by a grassroots parents’ organization and urged the Board to review these plans. She detailed that these plans follow public health protocols and address issues, such as mask requirements and classroom ventilation. Perruso emphasized the importance of setting benchmarks to guide reopening, communication, and plans that center the health and safety of students and teachers.

Susan Pcola-Davis, member of the public, testified in opposition to the Department’s 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding the lack of a contingency plan and communication. Pcola-Davis testified in opposition to the general waiver to allow reduction of the 180-day school year and expressed concern regarding the loss of student instructional hours. Pcola-Davis testified in opposition to the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and detailed guidance from the Department of Health.

Zan Timtim, member of the public, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding the lack of clear, transparent guidelines and the lack of a comprehensive reopening plan. Timtim expressed further concern regarding a school’s ability to enforce mask and social distancing requirements.

Lynn Otaguro, member of the public, expressed concern regarding the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar, including the lack of readiness, preparations, guidance, and communication. Otaguro urged the Board to delay reopening schools for in-person instruction until the Department and Department of Health release and implement clear, comprehensive guidelines that minimize exposure and prevent spread.

David Leaverton, member of the public, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding equity and achievement gaps. He noted that the Department’s plan to reduce student instructional days or implement full distance learning harms students as well as working parents. Leaverton urged the Board and Department to balance the needs of communities.

Nicole Harrison, Hilo Union Elementary School, testified on her concerns regarding the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar, including the lack of preparation, safety materials, and guidelines. Harrison expressed further concern regarding at-risk students and teachers and stated that schools are not ready to reopen for in-person instruction.

Justin Manuel Bergonio, Waipahu High School, testified on his concerns regarding the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar, including at-risk teachers, community spread, tourism, and the lack of preparation. He noted that COVID-19 could devastate families experiencing financial challenges from job or health insurance loss or families living in multigenerational homes. He urged the Board to delay the reopening of schools for in-person instruction and implement full distance learning.

Dianne Lim-Tam, member of the public, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding the Department’s lack of communication and inconsistency. She stated that parents are receiving inconsistent messages regarding distance learning and are not receiving forthcoming information from the Department. She emphasized the importance of equal access to education, including for students who choose distance learning over in-person instruction.

Debbie Anderson, Waiakea Intermediate School, testified on the Board’s expectations regarding distance learning, additional training, face masks, and guidelines. She expressed concern regarding the Department’s statewide response and emphasized the importance of school empowerment and unique community needs and noted that schools should be able to determine whether they are prepared to resume in-person instruction. Anderson expressed concern that rural areas are at a disadvantage in some ways and urged the Board to review equity and internet access in isolated areas.

Sharon Valente, member of the public, testified on her concerns regarding the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar, including risks for multigenerational households, the lack of sufficient planning, teacher training, and communication.

Cheri Nakamura, HEʻE Coalition, testified on the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health. She emphasized the importance of standardized approaches, clear and easy to understand guidelines, additional training, explicit requirements, and time for preparation. Nakamura detailed the importance of prioritizing funds for devices, beginning the school year in distance learning mode, and reviewing unified solutions.

The Board recessed at 2:17 p.m. and reconvened at 2:30 p.m.

Shana Logan, member of the public, testified on her concerns regarding the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health. She urged the Board to support unions and teachers and delay the reopening of in-person instruction. Logan further urged the Board to consider accountability, appropriate support, safety protocols, transportation, mental health services, challenges for casual hires, and guidelines.

Andrew Sanchez, member of the public, testified in support of the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school; a general waiver to allow the reduction of the 180-day school year; and the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health. Sanchez expressed concern regarding the Department’s lack of communication, lack of transparency, and lackluster response and urged the Board to implement distance learning.

John Clark, Ewa Neighborhood Board, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and urged the Board to review reopening school plans developed by grassroots organizations. He expressed concern regarding the Department’s lack of communication and transparency and detailed various community concerns, such as childcare, employment, and training. Clark emphasized the importance of balancing needs and implementing a clear, centralized framework and explicit guidelines.

Hoku Ward, member of the public, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding the lack of transparency, clarity, and communication. Ward urged the Board to delay the reopening of in-person instruction and implement a phased approach that allows for adequate training, distance learning and decision making guided by data and benchmarks.

Akemia Faria, Kaumana Elementary, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding guidelines and clarity. She emphasized parents’ interest in distance learning and the importance of the Department providing clear information. Faria testified on the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health and expressed concern regarding ventilation, safety materials, and staff shortages.

Cuong Do, member of the public, testified in support of the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and urged the Board to reopen schools for in-person instruction. Do stated that many schools are prepared and emphasized the importance of school empowerment.

Karly Kanehiro, James Campbell High School, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and urged the Board to delay reopening schools for in-person instruction until the Department was able to ensure teacher training, adequate safety materials, and sufficient protocol and guidelines.

Lisa Morrison, member of the public, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and emphasized the importance of preparation and training. Morrison expressed concern that teachers would be assessing students during the first few weeks of school rather than getting to know their students. She urged the Board to hold evening meetings to allow teachers and working parents to participate.

Elise Swope, member of the public, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding the pandemic, community spread, increases in infections, and vulnerable adults and students. Swope urged the Board to consider scientific evidence and delay reopening schools for in-person instruction. She emphasized that reopening schools would directly contribute to increases in cases and community spread.

Joy Gerry, member of the public, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and emphasized the importance of in-person instruction for students receiving special education services and for at-risk students. She noted that delaying reopening would lead to other mental, emotional, and physical challenges and stated that schools cannot remain indefinitely closed.

Estella Berg, member of the public, testified on the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health and urged the Board to delay the reopening of schools. She emphasized the importance of a phased reopening approach that includes benchmarks, science, and data.

Kyleigh Sanchez, Waianae Intermediate School, testified on the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health and emphasized the importance of a phased reopening approach. She expressed concern that the Department has not answered questions or addressed various concerns. Sanchez stated that teachers need additional time to plan.

Christine Olivera, West Hawaii Special Education District, testified on the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health and urged the Board to delay reopening and require the Department to answer questions and concerns prior to reopening. She expressed concerns regarding crowding, lack of preparation, lack of telework options, lack of health screenings, and lack of safety resources, such as masks and cleaning supplies.

Cara Flores, Hale Hawaii, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding the lack of data, safety protocols, increases in cases, community spread, and lack of guidelines. She urged the Board to delay reopening schools, implement distance learning, and develop a reopening plan guided by data, science, and benchmarks.

Collette Cameron, Waialua Elementary, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and expressed concern regarding achievement gaps and the physical, social, and emotional effects of closed campuses on students who are at-risk and who have special needs. She urged the Board to ensure that students who are at-risk receive quality educational services and further urged the Board to consider a comprehensive reopening plan that centers students who are at-risk and who receive special education services.

Jennifer Lum, Pearl City High School, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and emphasized the importance of prioritizing vulnerable students and considering a phased approach to reopening. Lum testified on the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health and expressed concern regarding communication, transparency, training, and leadership.

Vanessa Ott, member of the public, testified on the Department’s revisions to the 2020-2021 school calendar and emphasized the importance of safely reopening schools. She noted that a reasonable and safe reopening plan has several components, including face mask and hand washing requirements, sanitization, health screening, and appropriate cleaning and safety supplies. She urged the Board to prepare schools and ensure quality leadership and standardized guidelines in order to safely reopen schools.

Henry Sakata, member of the public, testified in support of the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health. He expressed concern regarding inconsistency and constantly changing plans and emphasized the importance of continuing quality education and support during the pandemic. Sakata urged the Board to develop a unified reopening plan that considers and balances various community needs.

Skye Darnell, King Intermediate School, testified on the Board’s expectations regarding additional training, distance learning, face masks, and guidance from the Department of Health and expressed concern regarding inconsistency and lack of training. Darnell emphasized the importance of quality training, guidelines, transparency, and communication.

Written testimony was also received and provided to the Committee members. The following is a listing of the people that submitted written testimony before the testimony deadline.

Written Testimony for 20200730 GBM.pdfWritten Testimony for 20200730 GBM.pdf


III. Action Items
Christina Kishimoto, Superintendent, reviewed revisions to the Department’s 2020-2021 school calendar, including additional training and professional development days for teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and delaying students’ first day to ensure health and safety preparedness for schools. She detailed that at its last meeting, the Board asked the Department to propose a revision to the 2020-2021 school calendar to allow schools more time to prepare for reopening. The Department met with leaders of the three unions representing the Department’s employees to discuss revisions and find common ground. She noted that the conversation was guided by several core assumptions, including that adjustments made to the calendar must focus on educating and supporting students; beginning the school year with in-person instruction to prepare staff to move to full distance learning; protection of the 180 days of student instruction to the greatest extent possible; any calendar modifications need to be accomplished within financial constraints; and any decisions made would affect community and business partners.

Kishimoto stated that the Department and labor unions agreed to an August 17, 2020 start date for students and nine days of training and professional development for teachers from August 4 to August 14, 2020, which the Department would begin rolling out statewide tomorrow. She noted that nearly 99% of teachers returned to work for their first day on July 29, 2020 while 1.2% did not return. Kishimoto detailed that the nine days of additional training would consist of four days of mandatory training and five days of administrator-directed training. She explained that administrator-directed training would allow schools to prepare in alignment with their unique school designs. She noted that these proposed revisions would result in the loss of nine student instructional days, shortening the school year to 171 days. However, the unions agreed to further negotiate to restore three student instructional days. Kishimoto stated that the Department and unions also agreed to seven days of mandated module training regarding distance learning for teachers who did not complete this training over the summer and training regarding health and safety matters. Kishimoto added that the Department would provide online training opportunities for substitute teachers as well.

Kishimoto reviewed educational implications of the proposed calendar change. She noted that the Department would not offer special education extended school year services during the two weeks of training and professional development. She emphasized that students have a right to these services. However, teachers are unable to both train and provide services. She stated that the Department would need to notify parents immediately if the Board adopts the proposed calendar. Kishimoto added that individualized education program teams would meet during the first quarter to determine any compensatory education that would be warranted for qualified students who were not provided with these services.

Kishimoto stated that the Department would engage in additional problem solving and work as the school year continues and would need to assess implementation on a weekly basis. She noted that regardless of whether or not the Board accepts the Department’s revisions, there will be community members who do not agree with delays. She stated that while these decisions are difficult, the Department appreciates members of the public sharing their varied perspectives to aid the Department in its decision making. She noted that the first day of school for students would still consist of in-person, blended, and distance learning. She stated that a multi-faceted approach allows schools to meet all of the health and safety needs of families as best as possible.

Board Member Dwight Takeno moved to adopt the revised school calendar for the 2020-2021 school year, as attached the Department’s memorandum dated July 30, 2020. Board Member Margaret Cox seconded.

Board Member Cox expressed support for the Department’s revisions and emphasized that principals had been requesting additional training days to plan, finalize enrollment within the different learning models, and prepare for school reopenings.

Board Member Takeno noted that the Department’s memorandum focuses on training. However, in its previous discussions, the Board expressed concern regarding the lack of safety protocols, the lack of personal protective equipment (“PPE”), and other issues directly related to the health and safety of students and staff. He expressed concern that the Department’s memorandum did not mention any of those concerns nor validate that the Department would address these concerns during the training period. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that schools have enough PPE and clear guidance and stated that these issues are paramount to reopening. He stated that he would like the Department to submit reports to verify that the Department addressed and resolved these various concerns.

Board Member Takeno expressed concern that the Board continues to receive important and significant information from press releases, news conferences, and media reports. He stated that he and other Board members learned that there were recently eight COVID-19 cases linked to Department schools from the news rather than from the Department. He stated that the Board has been requesting data that would assist the Board in formulating policy decisions on the reopening of schools for the last several months. Board Member Takeno expressed concern that the lack of transparency jeopardizes the Board and Department’s credibility and harms students. He emphasized that the Board and Department would need to address and rectify communication breakdowns in order to work together. He noted that the Board cannot develop effective directives and policies if the Department does not provide the Board with relevant and timely information.

Board Member Bruce Voss expressed concern regarding the Department’s proposed school calendar revisions. He emphasized that students are entitled to instructional days by law and students do not benefit when they lose instructional days. He stated that students should begin school sooner via distance learning and schools should determine when to transition to in-person instruction. Board Member Voss stated that each school is different and schools that are ready to begin sooner should have the opportunity to do so while schools that need more time should be provided additional time to prepare.

Board Member Lynn Fallin asked about the correlation between Board Policy 500-20, School Community Council Waivers, and Hawaii Revised Statutes (“HRS”) Chapter 302A. Kishimoto explained that Chapter 302A allows for waivers and further explained that during its July 23, 2020 meeting, the Board approved revisions to Board Policy 500-20, which allowed the Department to request general waivers from specific administrative rules, policies, procedures, or specific statutory provisions to apply to all schools under the same circumstances rather than for each school singularly.

Board Vice Chairperson Kenneth Uemura reviewed the contents of the Department’s memorandum. He noted that the Department described listening to Board discussions and testimony from various individuals regarding delaying the start date of schools to allow schools to prepare. However, the original discussion related to health and safety. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura stated that he supports delaying reopening schools to a later date. However, it’s important for the Board to understand how the Department arrived at its proposed date. He noted that the Department’s memorandum does not provide sufficient detailed as to what professional development entails. Thus, the Board cannot determine whether nine additional days of training are sufficient to ensure a safe and healthy reopening. He stated that the Board would need to hear details of the Department’s plan and understand how long it would take to ensure a safe school environment. He noted that the Department’s reopening and safety manuals reference the Department of Health but the Department of Health has not provided written guidance. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura emphasized that reopening plans should be clear, effective, and easy to read. He suggested that the Department review its reopening plan and combine all of its information into one handbook rather than posting multiple links on its website.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked whether the Department is committed to an August 17, 2020 start date and asked about the Department’s concerns. Kishimoto explained that the Department followed the Board’s directive and met with labor unions to negotiate and reach a consensus on revisions to the school calendar. Discussions included impacts, different perspectives, and student considerations. She stated that the consensus was to dedicate training to distance learning, mandate health and safety training, and reopen schools for students on August 17, 2020. The additional nine days of training would increase employee confidence, but the reduction in instructional days would negatively affect students. She noted that unions agreed to return to negotiate adding three instructional days and added that it would be more beneficial for students to be taught by trained and prepared teachers.

Student Representative Hunter Harris emphasized the importance of focusing on students and expressed that students are comfortable returning to school as long as teachers are comfortable returning.

Board Member Kili Namauʻu highlighted that teachers recently communicated to her that they support additional training and professional development and would be comfortable reopening schools on August 17. She asked about training and compensation for substitute teachers. Board Member Namauʻu expressed concern regarding training for custodial staff and asked whether custodial staff would receive in-person training. Board Member Namauʻu asked whether the August 17 reopening date is mandatory for schools.

Kishimoto highlighted that the Department is offering substitute teachers training modules that review the critical components of distance learning and compensating substitutes who complete all seven modules. Kishimoto detailed that the Department provided head custodians with training over the summer and head custodians were to work with their teams at their school sites. She noted that the Department received feedback regarding custodial training from labor unions and plans to implement additional training for custodial staff during the nine days that teachers receive training, including in-person training and modules. She noted that while principals do not have flexibility to adjust the start date, they do have the flexibility to implement their choice of school model and schedule students and teachers to be on-campus at different times to ensure social distancing and other safety components. She highlighted that a group that includes teachers and other Department school leaders are convening to develop clear criteria regarding transitions to full distance learning. She stated that this criteria would help assist principals in determining whether to transition and how ready their schools are to transition.

Board member Fallin asked about the Department’s discussions with the Department of Health and concerns the Department would still need to address in order to reopen schools. Kishimoto explained that the Department updates its reopening plan on its website, including changes resulting from discussions with the Department of Health. She stated that the Department made changes and developed guidance and posters regarding the use of face masks and added language regarding processes that occur in the event of a positive case. She stated that the Department continues to review how to present health and safety information to the public so that it is easy to understand and plans to walk employees through reopening guidelines so that employees understand the guidance, are aware of who to notify in the case of positive cases, and have opportunities to ask questions. She highlighted that staff can also re-watch training modules to refresh their knowledge. Kishimoto stated that the Department has had subsequent meetings with the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (“Hawaii EMA”) to discuss PPE and cleaning material availability and noted that leadership teams are following up with complex areas and schools to ensure that they have the supplies they need and are ready to open. She noted that the Department adopted Hawaii EMA’s standard of having two months of PPE and cleaning supplies on hand.

Board Member Fallin asked whether the Department implemented statewide practices for consistency purposes and Kishimoto confirmed that this is correct. Board Member Fallin asked about decision-making related to school closures. Kishimoto explained that the Department of Health is responsible for determining the metrics for cases, types of cases, and spread that would necessitate statewide or rolling closures. The Department of Health is in the process of determining these metrics and is including triggers that would necessitate school closures as well.

Board Member Kaimana Barcarse expressed concern regarding whether two weeks of training is sufficient. He stated that principals and teachers have expressed concerns regarding triple digit cases and receiving notifications through the media rather than from the Department. He noted that principals and teachers are cognizant of the loss of instructional days and the importance of academic needs but are primarily concerned regarding health and safety of students, families, and staff. Board Member Barcarse expressed concern regarding starting the school year with full distance learning and noted that not all students are able to participate in full distance learning. He stated that some students need equipment and training in order to participate. Board Member Barcarse asked about the frequency of the Department’s reports to the Board regarding reopening. Board Member Barcarse asked about the Department’s benchmarks related to the nine days of additional training. Board Member Barcarse expressed concern that schools have communicated that they have not received requested amounts of PPE and do not feel safe reopening with their current supplies. He asked about the process of school closures in the event schools run out of PPE or do not have enough staff.

Kishimoto stated that the Department plans to monitor the weeks leading up to reopening on a weekly basis, will have weekly meetings once the school year begins to review implementation and instruction and address concerns, and plans to review Department of Health case numbers on a weekly basis. She noted that the Department will review school models, staffing changes, staffing numbers, parent needs, and student numbers every week. Kishimoto stated that the Department could report to the Board on a monthly basis, have check-ins with the Board, or touch base with the Board in a different format. She noted that the Department is reviewing how to provide information to the Board in an efficient manner but would like to engage in discussions if the Board requests more frequent reports. Kishimoto stated that schools are unable to open without a sufficient supply of PPE and cleaning materials. She noted that the Department could shift materials if a particular school is running low but its goal is to always have supplies at hand. She stated that the Department would need to make decisions on a case-by-case basis if there are changes staffing numbers and teachers are unable to report to work.

Board Member Fallin asked about federal funding for charter schools for PPE and expressed concern that charter schools do not have adequate supplies. Kishimoto stated that the Department issued federal funding to the State Public Charter School Commission (“Commission”) but the Commission made distribution decisions. She noted that charter schools also have access to $100 million in funds from Hawaii EMA.

Military Representative Captain Lyn Yatko commented that military families and students are transitioning to Hawaii and asked if the Board had any concerns regarding the children of military personnel. Military Representative Captain Yatko explained that military personnel are currently under a restriction of movement when arriving in Hawaii but families are exempt from mandatory quarantine. She noted that regardless of the state’s exemption, military families quarantine upon arrival. She detailed challenges for military families during restriction of movement periods, such as registration and housing.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura expressed concern that military members are not subject to mandatory quarantine and the military does not release its COVID-19 figures. He expressed further concern regarding contact tracing, limited number of tests, and test turnaround time. He asked how the Department is addressing these concerns related to the military.

Board Member Shanty Asher expressed concern regarding performance gaps widening during the fourth quarter of the last school year. She asked how the Department plans to assess student performance and ensure that educational needs are being addressed in a timely manner. Kishimoto noted that the Department plans to provide reports to the Board on this matter because the Board included assessments and student readiness in its directives. She explained that the Department initially planned half days to allow schools to conduct assessments and make decisions regarding reengagement, technology use, and blended learning based on needs and readiness. She stated that schools could spend the first month assessing students to review how to proceed.

Board Member Voss asked about services for at-risk students during the two weeks of teacher training. Kishimoto explained that the Department discussed these concerns with unions and acknowledged that students would be affected during these two weeks because teachers cannot simultaneously train and provide services. She detailed that schools plan to stay in contact with students and further detailed device distribution as a means to assist students during this time period.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura reiterated his question regarding the Department’s commitment to its proposed start date and asked what the Board should expect in terms of PPE, supplies, training, sanitization, and preparation. Kishimoto explained that the Department followed the Board’s directive to delay the reopening and reached a consensus with union groups to reopen on August 17. The Department would be ready to the greatest extent possible, continue to address concerns as they arise on a daily and weekly basis, and ensure responsiveness to students and families.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura stated that the Board directed the Department to consider reopening on August 17 but the Department had flexibility to consider a different reopening date. He asked about the Department’s reasoning behind choosing August 17 as the reopening date. Kishimoto explained that the Board directed the Department to reach a consensus with all three unions, which it did, and the consensus was to reopen schools on August 17. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked for clarification regarding the Department’s indication that the proposed school calendar is subject to further legislative funding, Board action, and collective bargaining agreements. Kishimoto explained that the Department’s indication is a standard acknowledgement that other entities could make decisions in the future that might affect the school calendar. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked whether the Department was aware of any potential decisions that might affect the school calendar. Kishimoto stated that the Department is not alluding to any specific changes and is unaware of any potential changes. She stated that the Department is aware of current financial conditions and noted that the Legislature might reopen in the fall.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura reviewed arguments in support of the Department’s proposed revisions. He commented that not all teachers could complete training over the summer and stated that delaying in-person instruction would help to ensure a safe reopening. Kishimoto detailed the Department’s initial plan for starting the school year with half days to allow for teacher training and collaboration. She noted that 10-month employees, including teachers and educational assistants, do not work during the summer so they were unable to participate in training. The Department recognized that four days of training was insufficient and reached a consensus with unions to provide teachers with nine days of training. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked about training days and school models and noted that initially teachers would complete training after students were back in school. Kishimoto explained that there were many discussions regarding reopening models and changes made to these models, in consensus with the unions, as situations became more complex.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked about arguments against the Department’s recommendation. Kishimoto explained that the proposed revision delays the start date for students, results in the loss of nine instructional days, and might contribute to learning loss. In addition, students who receive extended school year services will not be able to receive these services during the two week training period. Kishimoto stated that some parents are concerned because they adjusted their schedules in preparation for an August 4 start date only to have to readjust. Some teachers are concerned because they are eager to connect with their students and review gaps. She stated that the Department has reviewed arguments both in support and against the recommendation and the multiple needs of staff and students. She recognized that there would be impacts regardless of the start date.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked about financial implications. Kishimoto explained that there might be financial impacts to substitute teachers and individual employee groups, such as casual hires or cafeteria employees, and costs for the nine additional days that students will not be on campus. She stated that the Department needed to develop a calendar within its budget and needs because it is not extending the school year.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura moved to amend the main motion by amending the start date for students to “August 17, 2020 or later.” Board Member Barcarse seconded.

Board Member Takeno asked if Board Vice Chairperson Uemura’s amendment was permissible and noted that the Department’s memorandum included a specific start date rather than an open start date.

Board Member Voss stated that he did not believe it was legal for the Board to amend the start date. He stated that the Board was conflating the start of instruction with the start of in-person teaching.

Board Chairperson Catherine Payne agreed with Board Member Voss that teachers, principals, schools, and the Department might run into issues if the start date were not specific.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura requested to withdraw his secondary motion. Board Chairperson Payne asked if there was any objection to withdraw the motion. There were no objections, and the motion was withdrawn.

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

ACTION: Motion to adopt the revised school calendar for the 2020-2021 school year, as attached the Department’s memorandum dated July 30, 2020 (Takeno/Cox). The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.

The Board recessed at 5:12 p.m. and reconvened 5:27 p.m.


Rodney Luke, Assistant Superintendent, Office of Strategy, Innovation, and Performance, stated that the Department is requesting a general waiver to allow reduction of the 180-day school year and 1,080 student instructional hours pursuant to Chapter 302A-251, consistent with revisions to the Department’s 2020-2021 school calendar, to address the effects of the pandemic. He stated that the Department’s proposed calendar revisions result in 171 student instructional days, a reduction of nine student instructional days and 54 student hours. He detailed that the nine days would be used for training and professional development in preparation of reopening. He noted that unions have agreed to further negotiate restoring three student instructional days within the school calendar, which may result in a school calendar of 174 days. Luke detailed that the Board approved revisions to Board Policy 500-20, which allows the Board to grant waivers for specific administrative rules, policies, and procedures, under its jurisdiction of statutory provisions as allowed by law, to apply to all schools under the same circumstances.

Board Member Takeno moved to grant a general waiver for all applicable public schools from the requirements of Section 302A-251, HRS, to allow all public schools to implement a school year with no fewer than 171 student instructional days that shall include no fewer than 1,026 student hours, as described in the Department’s memorandum dated July 30, 2020. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura seconded.

Board Member Fallin commented that pursuant to Section 302A-251, HRS, the Board may grant waivers to any individual school subject to specific student hours and the Board shall adopt policies and procedures to grant a waiver under this subsection. She stated that she wants to allow schools time to prepare but is concerned about instructional day reductions and effects on learning. She commented that pursuant to Board Policy 500-20, schools shall ensure that requests for waivers and exceptions align with their academic and financial plans and shall demonstrate how waivers will improve learning and increase student achievement. She noted that schools are required to explain how waivers will improve learning and increase achievement. Board Member Fallin stated that she would like to propose an amendment to ensure that there are measurable quality metrics within the waiver and assurances that the waiver will have a positive impact.

Board Member Fallin moved to amend the main motion (by adding the underlined text) to state, “grant a general waiver for all applicable public schools from the requirements of Section 302A-251, HRS, to allow all public schools to implement a school year with no fewer than 171 student instructional days that shall include no fewer than 1,026 student hours, provided that the waiver meets the requirements in Board Policy 500-20, entitled “School Community Council Waivers,” which includes provisions for assurances of improving student learning and increases achievement, as described in the Department’s memorandum dated July 30, 2020.” Board Member Barcarse seconded.

Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Board might need guidance regarding differences between granting waivers to multiple schools versus individual schools.
Board Member Fallin stated that statute refers to individual schools and noted that the Board might need to provide reports to the Legislature in the future so should review these matters sooner rather than later. She stated that the waiver references Board Policy 500-20, which outlines the Board’s procedures in granting waivers.

Board Member Takeno acknowledged Board Member Fallin’s concerns but stated that there is another subsection under Section 302A-251, HRS, that indicates that any general waiver granted by the Board to a specific school or schools may be extended by the Board to apply to other schools under comparable circumstances. He stated that the circumstances of the pandemic will require this adjustment as a general waiver so that the Department has time to plan trainings and address safety concerns.

Board Member Fallin asked about the Board’s previous action. Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Board made amendments to Board Policy 500-20 that gave the authority described in Board Member Takeno’s motion. She stated that the Board would need to continue to develop and clarify the process for requesting waivers but made adjustments to address current circumstances. Board Member Fallin commented that she wanted to ensure that the Board’s foundational premises were accurate.

Board Member Voss stated that the proposed motion excuses public schools from complying with the law at the expense of students. He stated that he does not believe the current amendment captures the intent of the statute and noted that the Legislature previously expressed similar concerns. Board Member Voss suggested deferring action and questioned the legality of this action item. He stated that the Department plans to continue negotiations so there is no immediate need for this waiver.

Board Member Fallin stated that her amendment intended to ensure statutory compliance and address concerns related to the reduction in instructional days by ensuring accountability around impacts and outcomes.

Board Chairperson Payne asked if the Board should take action on this item following the Department’s negotiations with unions. Board Member Voss stated that it would make more sense to review the results of negotiations prior to granting a waiver.

Board Member Fallin requested to withdraw her secondary motion. Board Chairperson Payne asked if there was any objection to withdraw the motion. There were no objections, and the motion was withdrawn.

Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Board could further review once the Department presents an amended calendar following further negotiations.
Board Member Takeno asked about current instructional days and hours. Board Chairperson Payne stated that this action item does not affect the days that the Department built in to prepare for welcoming students back on August 17. She stated that the Board is unaware of how this situation will evolve once the Department enter negotiations once again. She stated that the Board could take action on this item further into the school year and noted that the Board’s deferment would not affect its other action items.

Board Member Takeno requested to withdraw his main motion. Board Chairperson Payne asked if there was any objection to withdraw the motion. There were no objections, and the motion was withdrawn.


Board Chairperson Payne reviewed the Board’s expectations regarding focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning; starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; mandating masks on public school campuses; and detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health.

Board Chairperson Payne detailed that on July 23, 2020, the Board held a general business meeting at which several Board members expressed a desire to take action to respond to concerns from people that submitted written and oral testimony relating to the reopening of schools, but there was no sufficiently specific item on the agenda for the Board to take action on. So Board members requested a special meeting as soon as possible to deliberate on and address these issues.

Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Board has already addressed separate items that focus on changing the school calendar and waiving requirements to school days and student instructional hours. This agenda item covers four main concerns that were raised by Board members at the Board’s last meeting, which are, focusing additional training and professional development days on health, safety, and distance learning; starting student instruction for the 2020-2021 school year in distance learning mode; mandating masks on public school campuses; and detailed, written, publicly posted guidance from the Department of Health.

Board Chairperson Payne suggested that the Board discuss each area separately, focusing additional training and professional development days included in the revisions to the Department’s 2020-2021 school calendar on health, safety, and distance learning.

Board Member Fallin asked if Board Chairperson Payne’s proposal requests that schools begin the school year in distance learning mode or if her proposal simply requests general use of distance learning.

Board Chairperson Payne stated that a number of testifiers testified on concerns regarding distance learning and the Board had requested further discussion in previous meetings. She noted that pursuant to Sunshine Law, the Board was unable to discuss these concerns at prior meetings but could do so at this meeting. She detailed that some testifiers and Board members suggested phasing in in-person instruction and noted that there were many concerns regarding how limiting instruction to online instruction might negatively affect students. She stated that Board members could discuss all of these various concerns.

Board Member Takeno moved to adopt the following positions as the Board’s expectations for the Superintendent and the Department on the reopening of schools for the 2020-2021 school year: Board Member Fallin seconded.

Board Member Cox stated that the Board has already discussed the first area and needed to focus on the other areas in Board Chairperson Payne’s memorandum. She stated that she does not support the latter three areas.

Board Chairperson Payne emphasized testimony regarding PPE, specifically for teachers working one-on-one with students, and further guidance and training.

Board Member Takeno referenced the first position related to the expectation that additional training and professional development days focus on health, safety, and distance learning. He stated that various pieces of testimony expressed that schools are unable to procure sufficient PPE and supplies and have not implemented health and safety protocols. He asked if the Board could request a report to ensure that the Department addresses these concerns. Board Member Takeno suggested that the Board consider adopting a mechanism so that the Board could receive information from testifiers to ensure that their concerns were remediated and they feel safe welcoming students into their classrooms. Board Member Takeno stated that there were many concerns related to training, specifically the lack of safety equipment. Board Chairperson Payne commented that Kishimoto spoke to some of these issues earlier in the meeting.

Board Member Cox stated that Kishimoto previously indicated that she would provide weekly reports to the Board every Friday and suggested that this information could be included in those reports. Board Member Fallin commented that many concerns go beyond the Board’s role, such as the nature of training, especially in regards to distance learning. She asked if reports would include evaluations of training and summaries. Board Chairperson Payne stated that she believes the Department is conducting evaluations and could include this information in its reports to the Board.

Kishimoto confirmed that the Department collects feedback regarding trainings and could determine how to summarize and compile this feedback to provide to the Board. She noted that the Department uses this feedback to modify its trainings. Kishimoto stated that it would be onerous for the Department to submit weekly reports and asked the Board to reconsider reporting timelines. She detailed that the Department has implemented a reporting process to collect metrics and data regarding PPE and other components and stated that the Department plans to provide this specific information to the Board. She noted that the Board voted on these metrics at its last meeting. Kishimoto stated that the Department acknowledged and is following up with principals who are concerned about their PPE stockpiles and indicated that schools would not open if they did not have sufficient materials. She stated that she does not understand what additional information the Board would like considering that the Department already plans to provide information related to the Board’s concerns.

Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Department should communicate if there is anything notable that occurs that the Board should be made aware of in addition to Board concerns raised during Board meetings. She asked the Department to review whether special education teachers who work with high-needs students that require personal care have adequate PPE.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked about the Department’s devices and whether teachers are prepared for distance learning. Kishimoto stated that the Board has reported on its available and acquired devices. She detailed that the Department has 149,000 devices across the state for 180,000 students. She noted that not all students need a device because they have personal devices at home. The Department is attempting to meet demand for students who do not have access and need to borrow devices. She stated that the Department has a sufficient amount of loaner devices but does not have enough devices for students to keep one device at home and one at school, which is the Department’s goal and would be the ideal situation for at-risk students.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked about learning platforms, such as Acellus and Arizona State University, connectivity, and weekly surveys. Kishimoto stated that the Department does not expect schools to complete weekly surveys. She explained that the Department opted to collect metrics that do not burden schools and principals. Kishimoto stated that principals are reporting PPE levels and other data points and the Department plans to provide these reports to the Board on a monthly basis. However, although the Department is reporting on a monthly basis, the Department is tracking needs on a daily basis, staying in contact with schools, and working with Hawaii EMA. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked if the Department would be able to measure the components within the Board’s first expectation to provide a baseline and Kishimoto confirmed that the Department would be able to do so.

Board Member Fallin detailed approved metrics and questions and concerns regarding distance learning. She emphasized the importance of real-time metrics around quality related to distance learning. Board Member Fallin reviewed the Department’s attendance metric and asked if there were other meaningful metrics the Department could capture in addition to attendance.

Kishimoto reiterated that the Department attempted to implement metrics that would not burden schools, such as surveys to students, parents, and teachers to collect feedback regarding distance learning experiences. The Department plans to release follow-up surveys to continue collecting data and feedback. Kishimoto highlighted that the Department also plans to hold student focus groups to directly collect feedback from students regarding their experiences with distance learning, different instructional models, and technology. Board Member Fallin asked about the timing of follow-up surveys and focus groups. Kishimoto stated that the Department plans to conduct surveys and focus groups in the middle of the semester. She noted that it would be onerous for schools to report their experiences in real time. However, the Department could release short and easy phone surveys to students to gather immediate data regarding their experiences.

Board Member Fallin asked about systems in place in regards to attendance. She stated that she would be interested in reviewing how much time students participate in online instruction and whether they are learning, making progress, or struggling in certain areas. She noted that this information would help the Board in formulating policies. Kishimoto stated that the Department wants to provide teachers with time to adjust, train, and balance how often students should be on a device versus participating in hands-on learning. She stated that the Department collected data regarding how many students were on or off track during the fourth quarter and would continue to monitor progress similar to how it monitored and reported progress in the past.

Board Chairperson Payne reviewed the Board’s second expectation for all schools to begin the school year in distance learning instructional mode for at least two weeks or until the Superintendent believes all schools are prepared, whichever is longer. She expressed concern that schools are in different situations and planning to implement different instructional models so it might not be appropriate to expect all schools to begin the school year in this way.

Board Member Cox agreed that the Board’s second expectation did not take into account various school plans and learning models.

Board Member Voss commented that the Board approved revisions to the Department’s school calendar to allow nine additional days of training and for some students to begin to return to the classroom on August 17. He stated that the Board’s previous action supersedes this expectation.

Board Member Barcarse stated that he opposed the Board’s second expectation because teachers and principals are planning within their unique school environments and noted that a one-size-fits-all approach would be impractical.

Board Member Voss moved to amend the main motion to remove the Board’s second position from its expectations for the Superintendent and the Department on the reopening of schools for the 2020-2021 school year, as described in Board Chairperson Payne’s memorandum dated July 30, 2020. Board Member Cox seconded.

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

Board Chairperson Payne reviewed the Board’s third position and expectation for all individuals to wear face masks or face shields on school campuses.

Board Member Takeno expressed support for face mask or shield requirements, especially considering recent increases in cases. He stated that this requirement intends to minimize contact and spread of the virus and noted that scientists and research indicates that face coverings are the best way in which to prevent spread. He noted that learning would still take place and face shields could reveal articulation of speech and mouth movements. Board Member Takeno stated that it is a small inconvenience but would protect the overall health and safety of communities.

Board Member Voss commented that some places have banned masks with valves because they are ineffective. He asked about the Department’s position on masks with valves. Kishimoto stated that the Department has not taken a specific position on different kinds of masks at this time, but would do so if there was new guidance released regarding the effectiveness of different kinds of masks. She detailed that the Department recently posted the latest guidance from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention on its website regarding cloth masks as well as guidance regarding the wearing of face masks on its campuses and other properties, such as buses. She noted that the Department is indicating that everyone needs to wear masks but clarifying that there are situations where masks are not necessary. Board Member Voss commented that the Department should provide clarity to schools as to what masks are permissible to prevent disputes.

Board Member Namauʻu asked whether schools and buses are providing masks to students who enter campuses or buses without a face mask. Kishimoto noted that the state has mandatory mask requirements in all public spaces and many children have experience with wearing masks to grocery stores, parks, and other places. She stated that principals are notifying parents of mask requirements, their responsibility to ensure their children come to school with a mask, and the need to wash non-disposable masks. She noted that schools and bus drivers have disposable masks available but emphasized that students are not allowed to enter campuses or buses without a face mask.

Board Member Voss suggested that the Board could add the following language to the end its position, “Understanding that there may be situations where masks need not be worn because of instructional requirements or other specific Department policies.” Board Chairperson Payne asked about specific Department policies. Board Member Voss commented that Kishimoto indicated that there may be limited situations where masks are not necessary nor required. Kishimoto explained that the Department built in guidance regarding when students are able to take a break and remove their masks, such as during recess if social distancing is maintained, during instructional time when students are separated and working on individual projects, or in the cafeteria when they are eating.

Board Chairperson Payne asked if Board Member Voss’s suggestion captures the Department’s policies. Kishimoto clarified that the Department is providing guidance, not policy. Board Chairperson Payne suggested that the Board amend Board Member Voss’s proposed language to state, “With consideration given to specific instructional requirements or other Department guidance with respect to recess and lunch.”

Board Member Barcarse asked how teachers would ensure that students maintained six feet of distance during recess. Kishimoto stated that teachers would require masks during recess if students were not social distancing. However, teachers could implement organized activities with natural social distancing, such as hula hooping or jumping rope. She highlighted that teachers developed different designs over the summer to help students follow safety protocols.

Board Member Takeno expressed concern that the proposed amendments to the Board’s position indicate that masks are required except under specific conditions. He stated that this language does not set a standard and might result in inconsistency across schools. He emphasized the importance of consistent standards to prevent deviations across schools. He asked if the Department would produce a list of specific exceptions so that schools have clear guidelines and expectations align with the Department’s memorandum of understanding with HSTA. Kishimoto stated that the Department published, posted, and distributed guidance regarding mask expectations and included specific situations where masks are not required. She stated that the Department’s guidance mandates masks on campus but indicates that students are only allowed to remove masks when they are sitting and eating in the cafeteria or when teachers allow them to remove their masks in the classroom for an activity in which facial features are important. She stated that schools vetted the Department’s guidance and provided positive feedback regarding the clarity of the Department’s expectations. She added that the Department does not allow adults to wear face shields if they are working with students within a special education setting. Kishimoto stated that the Department plans to provide additional clarity and guidance during its nine days of training.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura commented that he supports leaving the recommendation as is because the Department could add these changes to its guidance handbooks and determine effective implementation.

Board Member Takeno stated that some of the Department’s guidance is unclear because it states that adults need to wear masks to the extent possible, which might be interpreted as adults do not need to wear masks on the school campus if they are socially distanced. He stated that this guidance does not emphasize that all individuals should be wearing masks the entire time they are on campus. He stated that while the Department can create exceptions for situations where it might be appropriate to wear a shield or take a break, the Department needs to very clearly emphasize that masks should be worn at all times. He stated that the Department’s language regarding requirements and exceptions should be very specific and situational to prevent misinterpretation and make the Board’s expectation very clear.

Board Member Voss asked whether the Department would hang posters in every classroom regarding stringent mask requirements and specific exceptions. Kishimoto confirmed that schools are hanging up posters around campus regarding masks requirements. She noted that the Department could build very clear guidelines into its mandatory training, ensure that its trainings are explicit, and require offices to readily provide one-pagers with guidance.

Board Member Takeno stated that he supports leaving the Board’s position regarding masks as is and does not support adding Board Chairperson Payne’s or Board Member Voss’s suggested changes. He highlighted that the position, as currently worded, is strict with limited flexibility and provides the Department with an opportunity to determine implementation, establish clear guidance, and report to the Board.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura stated that the Department’s reopening handbooks, including its health and safety handbook, are living documents. The Board and Department could amend guidance in handbooks if necessary after having discussions.

Board Chairperson Payne reviewed the Board’s expectation that the Department rely on detailed, written, publically available guidance from the Department of Health when formulating its own guidance to schools. She stated that the Board and Department are still waiting for clarity and guidance from the Department of Health regarding when schools should close and what might trigger schools to close.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura expressed concern that military members are not required to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Hawaii and asked how the Department and Department of Health plan to integrate military children who arrive from different states and do not quarantine into the school system. He expressed concern that the military is not publically releasing any of its data and expressed further concern that the Department and Department of Health might be unable to contact trace if students of military personnel fall ill and the Department of Defense is not working in collaboration with other partners. Military Representative Captain Yatko stated that she would address the Board’s concerns with the Department of Defense and provide additional information at the Board’s next meeting.

Board Member Voss asked about content and timelines related to the Department of Health’s written guidance. Kishimoto explained that the Department of Health reviewed and made changes to the Department’s reopening plan, further explained the Department’s collaborative efforts with the Department of Health, and noted that she could communicate the Board’s requests and expectations.

Board Member Voss asked about processes if students or staff members test positive for COVID-19. Kishimoto stated that the Department of Health is working on a model that includes triggers, which would necessitate school shutdowns. Kishimoto stated that she does not have a timeline but can request potential release dates. She highlighted that the Department of Health produced two flowcharts for next steps following positive cases, which are posted on the Department’s website.

Board Member Takeno asked about the Department’s plan to publicly release information regarding positive COVID-19 cases on school campuses and in communities. Kishimoto stated that she has not established how to communicate this information to the Board and would need to determine ways in which and how frequently to communicate incidents. She explained that the Department of Health provides the Department with a formal report and the Department would need to extrapolate appropriate school-based data. She stated that the Department and Department of Health are currently determining how to contact trace and capture information regarding self-reported cases or potential positives and noted that schools determine risk levels in these circumstances. Kishimoto stated that the Department would need to create internal and external reporting models to report to the Board and public.

Board Member Takeno asked about the information the Board would receive versus the information provided to the public. Kishimoto explained that presumptive positive cases are not always actual positive cases but the Department needs to quickly contact parents and staff members when learning of presumptive positives. The Department would need to determine how to appropriately report information and noted that the Department of Health is ultimately responsible for reporting positive cases.

Board Member Takeno asked if the Department would release positive cases to the public after informing the Board. Kishimoto stated that she would need to seek clarification from the Department of Health to prevent mistakenly disclosing protected information and determine how to proceed with both the Board and public. Board Chairperson Payne requested that Board members provide specific inquiries to the Department and the Department determine how to respond to these inquiries.

Board Member Takeno asked about reporting to the public. Kishimoto stated that the Department and Department of Health would need to reach an agreement for the Department to publicly report cases and noted that the Department of Health might assume the responsibility to inform the public. She confirmed that either the Department or Department of Health would publicly report positive cases but noted that the Department of Health is the only agency authorized to report. Board Member Takeno asked if the Department of Health makes determinations in terms of public release and Kishimoto confirmed that while the Department of Health may report cases to agencies, only the Department of Health has the authorization to publicly release results.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura asked if the Department of Health would notify schools if children of military personnel tested positive for COVID-19. He expressed concern that schools might not be informed of positive cases, the lack of contact tracers, and the timeliness of test results. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura recommended that the Department follow the same criteria that the Department follows for its ethics hotline when it reports COVID-19 cases to the Board. He stated that the Board would prefer to receive appropriate information from the Superintendent rather than learn about situations occurring in public schools from the news.

Board Member Cox detailed a presentation from the Department of Health regarding its process for notifying schools of positive COVID-19 cases and next steps regarding contact tracing and quarantine. She stated that these processes were comprehensive and addressed health and safety in schools.

Board Member Namauʻu expressed concern that the Board learned of positive COVID-19 cases during summer school from the news. She noted that the Department used to communicate confidential information that the Board should be made aware of and requested that the Department more effectively communicate with the Board and provide information in a timely manner. Board Member Namauʻu asked about the cases of COVID-19 that were identified during summer school, including the Department’s responses. Kishimoto stated that she provided information to the Board regarding the cases and noted that it is an ongoing process.

Board Member Barcarse requested that the Department report presumptive positives and non-active cases on a weekly basis and then follow-up with additional information regarding actual positives after receiving more information from the Department of Health.

Board Member Takeno asked about school nurses and when the Department would have the capacity necessary to safely reopen schools. Kishimoto detailed that the Department received funds and worked with the University of Hawaii’s School of Nursing to train and place nurses. She stated that she could provide an update on the situation and the Department’s agreement with the University of Hawaii at a later time. Board Member Takeno commented that the Department should hire key personnel no later than August 17, 2020. Kishimoto detailed that the Department plans to place 15 registered nurses and one advance practice registered nurse by September. She explained that these nurses would supplement existing nursing staff and provide support. Board Member Takeno requested that the Department follow-up with reports and Kishimoto confirmed that the Department could provide status reports.
Board Member Namauʻu asked about other opportunities to address additional concerns from community members. She noted that schools are reopening soon and cases continue to increase and expressed concern that the Board’s next meeting is not until August 20, 2020. Board Member Namauʻu requested that the Board meet sooner to discuss other issues and receive updates as situations potentially change. Board Chairperson Payne stated that Board members should not delay discussing issues as they arise. She noted that Board members could have individual conversations with the Department or Board staff regarding their concerns and update requests. Board Member Namauʻu that members of the public continue to have concerns and emphasized the importance of the Board convening sooner to discuss issues and ensure that health and safety is prioritized. Board Member Takeno detailed Sunshine Law and the challenges in scheduling quick meetings.

Board Members Namauʻu and Takeno emphasized the importance of holding meetings to review concerns as they arise and engage in discussions with the Department in a timely manner. Board Chairperson Payne stated that she would review meeting dates.

Board Chairperson Payne called for a roll call vote on the amended main motion to adopt the following positions as the Board’s expectations for the Superintendent and the Department on the reopening of schools for the 2020-2021 school year: The motion carried unanimously with all members present (Board Vice Chairperson Uemura, Board Members Asher, Barcarse, Cox, Fallin, Namauʻu, Takeno, and Voss) voting aye.

ACTION: Motion to adopt the following positions as the Board’s expectations for the Superintendent and the Department on the reopening of schools for the 2020-2021 school year: The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.

IV. Adjournment

Board Chairperson Payne adjourned the meeting at 7:56 p.m.