STATE OF HAWAII
BOARD OF EDUCATION
GENERAL BUSINESS MEETING

MINUTES

Thursday, September 16, 2021
*The Board did not meet at a physical location. As part of the response to the threat of COVID-19, Governor David Ige issued an Emergency Proclamation dated August 5, 2021, 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
Bill Arakaki
Shanty Asher
Kaimana Barcarse
Lyla Berg
Lynn Fallin
Kili Namauʻu
Bruce Voss

EXCUSED:
None

ALSO PRESENT:
Kyla Musso, Student Representative
Keith Hayashi, Interim Superintendent, Department of Education
Phyllis Unebasami, Deputy Superintendent, Department of Education
Heidi Armstrong, Assistant Superintendent of the Office of Student Support Services, Department of Education
Randall Tanaka, Assistant Superintendent of the Office of Facilities and Operations, Department of Education
Alison Kunishige, Executive Director
Kenyon Tam, Board Analyst
Regina Pascua, Executive Secretary
Lady Garrett, Secretary


I. Call to Order

Board Chairperson Catherine Payne called the Board of Education (“Board”) General Business Meeting to order at 1:31 p.m.


II. Approval of Meeting Minutes of August 19, 2021 General Business Meeting and August 19, 2021 General Business Meeting (executive session)

Board Chairperson Payne called for public testimony on this agenda item. She explained that testimony on the minutes is to provide any corrections and it is not an opportunity for testifiers to comment on previous agenda topics.

Susan Pcola-Davis, public, testified that there is a possible correction needed on the August 19, 2021 general business meeting minutes because she recalled that Board Vice Chairperson Kenneth Uemura requested that the Department of Education (“Department”) provide more information for Item 5, Item 6, and Item 7 of the Department’s recommendation.

Board Chairperson Payne asked Board members to review the minutes of the Board’s August 19, 2021 General Business Meeting and August 19, 2021 General Business Meeting executive session.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura moved to approve the meeting minutes of the Board’s August 19, 2021 General Business Meeting and August 19, 2021 General Business Meeting executive session. Board Member Kaimana Barcarse seconded.

Board Chairperson Payne asked if there were any objections to the motion. No Board Member raised objections, and the motion was carried through unanimous consent from all members present (Board Vice Chairperson Uemura, Board Members Bill Arakaki, Shanty Asher, Barcarse, Lyla Berg, Lynn Fallin, Kili Namauʻu, and Bruce Voss).

ACTION: Motion to approve the meeting minutes of the Board’s August 19, 2021 General Business Meeting and August 19, 2021 General Business Meeting executive session (Uemura/Barcarse). The motion carried through unanimous consent from all members present.


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

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

Susan Pcola-Davis, public, testified that she would like further information on the Department’s request to change the carryover limit waiver request from 5% to 15%. She noted that the Department needs to understand how many students have been lost to homeschooling to determine the effect on weighted student formula.

Cara Flores, public, testified that the COVID-19 pandemic provided an opportunity to make school infrastructure safer, noted that more staff is needed on campus to test students and staff, and stated that the Department needs distance learning hubs because more families are opting to homeschool their children.

Linda Elento, public, testified that she would like to encourage the Board to look at the U.S. Department of Education’s Elementary and Secondary Education website to help determine if the Department’s priorities align to what students really need and stated that as a parent of a special needs student, she does not understand how the Department distributes special education funds to schools.

Board Member Voss, Finance and Infrastructure Committee Chairperson, reported that the committee unanimously approved action items on the priority allocation of ESSER funds based on an amended Department recommendation and the renaming of Central Middle School to Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani Middle School.


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

David Miyashiro, HawaiiKidsCAN, testified that he continues to seek assurance that ESSER II and ESSER ARP funds will maximize the impact to students, stated that critical questions remain unanswered, and that Board members shared similar concerns.

Susan Pcola-Davis, public, asked how schools will know what to do based on the 8-page template the Department is requiring complex area superintendents to complete and recommended that the Department use the Board metrics tracked last year when analyzing the universal screener data.

Mirielle Ellsworth, public, expressed concern with the age appropriateness of the questions being asked in the Panorama social emotional survey of students in grades 3-12 and noted that the survey will not help address actual student needs.

Board Member Namau‘u, Student Achievement Committee Chairperson, reported that the committee discussed the Department’s educational plan on the use of federal ESSER II funds in the second round and the third round of ESSER ARP. She explained that the committee had a robust discussion surrounding the draft educational plan from the Department detailing how it will address learning acceleration.


IV. Action Items

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

Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Board is a member of NASBE, which is holding a virtual annual conference from October 6 through 8, to conduct the organization’s business, including electing the 2021 NASBE Chair-elect and Secretary-Treasurer, to consider NASBE Bylaw revisions, and public education position revisions.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura moved to: (1) designate Board Member Lynn Fallin as the voting delegate and Board Member Bill Arakaki as the alternate delegate for NASBE’s 2021 Annual Conference; (2) authorize the Board’s voting delegate or alternate to vote for Christine Benson as NASBE Chair-elect and Fern Desjardins as NASBE Secretary-Treasurer; (3) approve the proposed revisions to NASBE’s Bylaws as shown in Exhibit C of Board Chairperson Payne’s memorandum dated September 16, 2021; and (4) approve the proposed revisions to NASBE’s Public Education Positions as shown in Exhibit D of Board Chairperson Payne’s memorandum dated September 16, 2021. Board Member Barcarse seconded.

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

ACTION: Motion to (1) designate Board Member Fallin as the voting delegate and Board Member Arakaki as the alternate delegate for NASBE’s 2021 Annual Conference; (2) authorize the Board’s voting delegate or alternate to vote for Christine Benson as NASBE Chair-elect and Fern Desjardins as NASBE Secretary-Treasurer; (3) approve the proposed revisions to NASBE’s Bylaws as shown in Exhibit C of Board Chairperson Payne’s memorandum dated September 16, 2021; and (4) approve the proposed revisions to NASBE’s Public Education Positions as shown in Exhibit D of Board Chairperson Payne’s memorandum dated September 16, 2021 (Uemura/Barcarse). The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.


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

Board Chairperson Payne stated that the Board adopted a slate of committee members, committee chairs, and vice chairs at its July 15, 2021 General Business Meeting. She explained that the holdover term of Dwight Takeno ended and Board Member Lyla Berg started her term. She noted that Board Member Berg asked to be a member of the Student Achievement and Human Resources Committees, and that the Board must vote to appoint Board Member Berg to these standing committees.

Board Chairperson Payne also explained that because former member Takeno was the Human Resources Committee Vice Chairperson, the Board must appoint a new Human Resources Vice Chairperson.

Board Member Barcarse moved to designate Board Member Berg as a member of the Student Achievement and Human Resources Committees. Board Member Fallin seconded.

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

ACTION: Motion to designate Board Member Berg as a member of the Student Achievement and Human Resources Committees (Barcarse/Fallin). The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.

Board Member Barcarse moved to appoint Board Member Asher as Vice Chairperson of the Human Resources Committee. Board Member Uemura seconded.

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

ACTION: Motion to appoint Board Member Asher as Vice Chairperson of the Human Resources Committee (Barcarse/Uemura). The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.


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

Board Chairperson Payne called on Keith Hayashi, Interim Superintendent, to present the Department’s recommendation for a Board Waiver Review Representative.

Hayashi recommended Cara Tanimura, Interim Assistant Superintendent of the Office of Strategy Innovation and Performance to serve as the Board waiver review representative.

Board Member Barcarse moved to appoint Cara Tanimura as a Board Waiver Review Representative pursuant to the Board’s School Community Council Process and Procedures for Requesting Waivers from Policies, Rules, or Procedures. Board Member Asher seconded.

Board Member Fallin asked for clarification because the recommendation memorandum states that the committee will be comprised of two representatives and she would like to know if someone is already serving in this role.

Board Chairperson Payne clarified that in past practice the Board Chairperson served in this role but that is not included in today’s recommendation. She stated that the Board will consider whether to appoint a member to serve in this role before the next review process starts.

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

ACTION: Motion to appoint Cara Tanimura as a Board Waiver Review Representative pursuant to the Board’s School Community Council Process and Procedures for Requesting Waivers from Policies, Rules, Or Procedures (Barcarse/Asher). The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.


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

Board Member Voss, Finance and Infrastructure Committee Chairperson, stated that the committee recommended the approval of the renaming of the school currently known as Central Middle School to Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani Middle School.

Board Member Voss highlighted that the school is planning events to highlight the important role Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani played in Hawaiian history including a mural on the campus.

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

ACTION: Motion to approve the renaming of the school currently known as Central Middle School to Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani Middle School (Finance and Infrastructure Committee/no second required). The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye.


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

Susan Pcola-Davis, public, asked how much money constitutes 15% of carryover funds, asked how much schools would receive if they could provide distance learning instead of leaving families to homeschool their children, and that schools and families will need to wait until October to find out about what the revamped learning acceleration plan will look like.

Board Member Voss, Finance and Infrastructure Committee Chairperson, stated that the Department recommended an amendment to its original recommendation, which the committee recommended approval of for the use of up to $61.4 million of ESSER II and ESSER ARP funds for the 2021-2022 fiscal year for the proposed uses and amounts outlined for Item 4.01, Item 4.02, and Item 4.03 in Interim Superintendent Hayashi’s memorandum dated September 16, 2021.

Board Member Voss explained that the Department will conduct a detailed review to determine the actual amounts needed for the remainder of the fiscal year for the shortfalls the committee did not approve. He noted that the Department will return later to seek approval for the remaining shortfalls.

Board Member Voss stated that the Department committed to tracking spending of ESSER funds and reporting that spending to the Board in conjunction with its quarterly reports to the Board. He also stated that the Board will reallocate any unspent funds from shortfalls to the Department’s educational plan.

Board Vice Chairperson Uemura noted that he participated in the committee discussions as an ex officio member and will stand on his earlier comments. He stated that he will vote against the motion.

Board Chairperson Payne called for a roll call vote on the motion. The motion carried unanimously with all members present voting aye (Board Members Arakaki, Asher, Barcarse, Berg, Fallin, Namauʻu, and Voss). Board Vice Chairperson Uemura voted no.

ACTION: Motion to approve the committee recommended amendment for the approval of the use of up to $61.4 million of ESSER II and ESSER ARP funds for the 2021-2022 fiscal year for the proposed uses and amounts outlined for Item 4.01, Item 4.02, and Item 4.03 in Interim Superintendent Hayashi’s memorandum dated September 16, 2021. (Finance and Infrastructure Committee/no second required). The motion carried with Board Members Arakaki, Asher, Barcarse, Berg, Fallin, Namauʻu, and Voss voting aye. Board Vice Chairperson Uemura voted no.


V. Discussion Items

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

George White, public, testified that the Board should expect and demand better from the Department because there is still no testing in a majority of schools.

David Miyashiro, HawaiiKidsCAN, testified that the Department should collect data on quarantine absences and recommended that the Department provide guidance on how to continue student learning and support during quarantine.

Mara Hanson, public, expressed concern about the way the Department handled the opening of schools and noted that the opening caused a lot of confusion for families. She stated that some parents are not confident about safety on school campuses.

Susan Pcola-Davis, public, testified that although there is a state distance learning program, it is available on a first come first served basis and stated that the Department’s contingency plan does not provide triggers for different modes of learning.

Sarah Hofstadter, HALE Hawaii, testified on behalf of an educational assistant who was unable to attend, who asked that she share with the Board that she has worked with teachers who tested positive for COVID-19 and not offered proper personal protective equipment while working with medically fragile students.

Cheri Nakamura, HEʻE Coalition, testified that while schools need to have some flexibility there needs to be uniform safety standards across the system and shared how the Los Angeles Unified School District provides consistent, weekly testing in all schools, all schools use technology to allow students to work independently during quarantine, and the district distributed ESSER funds equitably.

Lynn Otaguro, public, testified that the difference between information from the Department and information from stakeholders result in conflicting messages, which leave members of the school community dismayed.

Dianne Tam, public, testified that the Board should consider funding mitigation strategies, like surveillance testing in schools, to safely send students back to in-person learning and stated that school principals may not be participating in testing programs because they are unable to find staff to administer the testing.

Linda Elento, public, testified in support for testing in schools, noted that test results should be provided within 24 hours, and noted that having distance learning works for some students and should be provided as an option.

Leina‘ala Vedder, Kula Kaiapuni O Maui in Paia, testified in support of the Kaiapuni distance learning program, stated that in-person learning is the optimum classroom learning environment for Kaiapuni learning, and noted that Kula Kaiapuni faces challenges with language acquisition and personal connections with each student.

Katharine Matavao, expressed concerns regarding surveillance testing and asked why surveillance testing has not been implemented in schools.

Kaena Elaban-Manuwa, expressed concern regarding the inequality of resources for Kaiapuni schools, asked why there is no distance learning program for Kaiapuni students, and noted that his children have been out of school for over three weeks.

Osa Tui, Hawaii State Teachers Association (“HSTA”), testified that HSTA was indirectly accused of fueling press conferences, being unproductive and causing confusion, but HSTA has communicated clearly and consistently regarding the major safety issues in schools. Tui also stated that due to the Department’s lack of planning and practices inconsistent with health and safety guidance, personnel is increasingly losing faith and teachers are being pushed to their breaking points.

Dayna Moore, public, testified schools are unsafe and contributing to community spread because schools are not notifying parents when their children are exposed to COVID-19 and that 75% of students are unvaccinated.

Julie Reyes Oda, Nanakuli High and Intermediate School, testified that there is a petition from almost 1,000 teachers in the Leeward District demanding that the Department collectively bargain with HSTA on safety conditions and requested the Board’s assistance in getting the Department to negotiate with HSTA.

Mirielle Ellsworth, public, testified that the Department needs to include more information in its presentation, prohibit the use of gaiters or bandanas as masks on campus, and stop lying to staff and the public.

Board Chairperson Payne called on Hayashi and Phyllis Unebasami, Deputy Superintendent, to present on the opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year.

Hayashi stated that the Department is continuously trying to find ways to prioritize health and safety. He also stated that the Department is working on ideas to bring in support for schools to identify close contacts of those who may be exposed.

Hayashi explained that there are communication channels for staff to report and there is no substitute for in-person learning.

Hayashi stated that slide two provides an update on continuing education for students impacted by COVID-19 and that schools will be providing access to work packets designed for the length of the quarantine or assignments will be available in Google Classroom. He stated that complex areas will continue to engage with all schools in all counties on plans to help the students in quarantine statewide.

Hayashi stated that the Department employee vaccination rate data shows that 9 out of 10 employees are fully or partially vaccinated against COVID-19. He emphasized that the Department is implementing a testing requirement not a vaccination mandate.

Unebasami stated that, based on Department guidance, students are not required to wear masks in outdoor settings and the Department is using the K-12 Stride distance learning program for students in Kindergarten to eighth grade.

Board Member Voss asked if the Department has a current estimate for the number of eligible, vaccinated students. Hayashi replied that the Department has not collected this information.

Board Member Voss asked if the Department is considering a vaccination mandate and, if so, the timeline for this mandate. Hayashi replied that the Department of Health (“DOH”) is the agency that will determine whether there is a vaccination mandate and timeline. Board Member Voss asked why there is no urgency to determine whether the COVID-19 vaccines will be required when the Department already requires vaccinations from other diseases. Hayashi replied that DOH determines student vaccination requirements.

Board Member Voss asked if the Department has engaged with DOH to investigate the possibility on a timeline to establish a COVID-19 vaccination mandate for students. Hayashi replied that he has not and that he will follow up on this with DOH.

Board Member Arakaki asked if the schools have enough resources to test students. He also asked for information on the Department’s plans if schools need to shift to distance learning and whether there is a threshold of cases when schools need to shut down that is consistent across the state.

Unebasami explained that schools can register to participate in the testing program and will be provided with testing kits, but schools still need to get parental consent, which may take additional time. She also stated that the Department needs to inform parents that there is an opportunity to participate in the testing program.

Board Member Arakaki asked if the Department is providing support for schools once a school elects to participate in a testing program.

Unebasami replied that a testing program is an added responsibility for school staff and is challenging for schools. She explained that the Department is working to institute school based testing with a commitment from volunteers, using Hawaii Keiki Nurses, and casual hires. Board Member Arakaki noted that he is hopeful this will address concerns from HSTA regarding safety concerns on campus

Hayashi stated that the Department, in partnership with DOH, implemented mandatory vaccinations for all student athletes participating in extra-curricular and co-curricular programs. He explained that all students who participate in these programs must be vaccinated by September 24, 2021.

Board Member Fallin expressed concern for the students who need to undergo mandatory quarantine. She asked what happens while students are waiting for test results.

Unebasami replied that the Department is using the surveillance testing kits for screening and that staff and students who are tested for screening purposes stay in school while waiting for these testing results. She stated that when a student may have been in contact or exposed to an individual that has tested positive for COVID-19, the student can stay in school if they are vaccinated and asymptomatic, but must go home if they start displaying symptoms.

Board Member Fallin asked what is the schools’ understanding and expectation regarding testing and quarantine for students.

Unebasami replied that it depends on the circumstances. If schools are testing students as part of a surveillance program, students will remain in school while waiting for results unless they start showing symptoms. She stated that if a student shows symptoms the school will send the student home.

Board Member Fallin stated that principals and school staff need clarity because it will be confusing if each school does things differently. Unebasami replied that the Department is providing training for school level staff and that the Department is implementing different procedures for each scenario. She also stated that schools are using testing kits and resources to test unvaccinated staff members so they can meet Governor David Ige’s testing mandate and continue working.

Board Member Fallin asked about parents’ role in determining the students’ quarantine period and at what point is the impact so great that it leads to other options like distance learning. She also asked how school attendance is affected if a certain number of students are placed in quarantine. Board Member Fallin stated that the Department should make sure schools understand clear expectations of what they must provide for students in quarantine.

Heidi Armstrong, Assistant Superintendent of the Office of Student Support Services, replied that the Department recently modified its systems to track when students are in quarantine. She stated that this will help the Department understand how many students are not in the classroom due to quarantine and facilitate planning going forward.

Board Member Fallin asked if the Department’s system distinguishes between students that have been confirmed positive versus those who are just close contacts. Armstrong stated that the Department’s system, going forward, will include information on reasons for a student’s absence.

Unebasami also replied that students are provided a number of options while in quarantine to extend learning, such as using Google Classroom, providing devices for students, work packets, choice boards and other options designed to support families so that students can continue learning while in quarantine.

Board Member Fallin asked whether, at a minimum, parents and students can expect a school packet either hard copy or email, choice boards, or devices. Hayashi replied that the Department is talking to school principals to look at different strategies to use for students while they are in quarantine and to establish minimum expectations while acknowledging different school community needs.

Board Member Fallin asked what happens with teacher contact and whether there is an opportunity for parents to reach out to teachers. Hayashi replied that teachers value communication with parents and collaboration efforts to build a strong school.

Board Chairperson Payne asked about DOH’s rationale for sending test results to the mainland for processing, which results in schools waiting three days for results.

Hayashi replied that DOH has approved the use of certain types of tests because the results need to be validated by a laboratory. He also stated that for tests to be validated they need to be processed by laboratories with specific certifications and not all laboratories are certified.

Board Member Namau‘u stated that she would like more rapid testing available to schools as the science develops and asked if the testing is paid for by the federal government, so schools do not have to bear the cost.

Unebasami replied that testing is federally funded, but schools must provide staffing to administer tests, which is an additional cost to the Department. She stated that DOH is the lead on school based testing and that the goal is to keep federally funded sources in place for schools.

Board Member Namau‘u asked about the Department’s use of testing resources to help staff to comply with Governor Ige’s testing mandate. Unebasami explained that many schools started by using the program to help staff meet the testing mandate requirements, but that the project is focused on students.

Board Member Namau‘u asked if the Department has clear guidance on the types of masks that can be used in schools. Armstrong replied that the Department’s health and safety guide, specifically prohibits using gaiters and bandanas as masks. She also stated that the guidance clearly states that schools must enforce correct mask usage.

Randall Tanaka, Assistant Superintendent of the Office of Facilities and Operations, stated that when the Department started getting masks from the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, the masks were surgical, children’s size, KN95, and cloth masks but the situation has since evolved and parents are providing their students with masks.

Board Member Namau‘u stated that she has been contacted by the families of immune compromised students who are not currently eligible for vaccination and are concerned with safety in the classroom. She stated that these families are looking for a distance learning option with teacher support and asked what the Department can do to assist these students with their learning. Armstrong replied that students with health issues have options, including home hospital instruction.

Board Member Namau‘u noted that there are capacity and curriculum issues in the distance learning formats for Kaiapuni schools and expressed her hope that this work will lead to long-term solutions.

Board Member Asher asked where schools send students when they show symptoms, what happens after close contacts are tested and identified, where do students go to get tested, and whether there are designated staff to answer family questions about quarantine and distance learning. Armstrong explained that all schools have identified isolation areas for students displaying COVID-19 symptoms and that all students have a return to work criteria sheet. She also stated that the Hawaii Keiki hotline is staffed with nurses who are available to answer questions and address family concerns.

Board Chairperson Payne asked if the Hawaii Keiki hotline has language interpretation capabilities. Armstrong replied that the hotline has language interpreters for the parents who may need this service.

Board Member Berg asked how the Department is delivering information to the public. Hayashi replied that the Department is communicating with parents and staff by sending letters and using social media, its website, and news releases and press releases.

Board Member Berg asked how the Board can help the Department get the information to the community. Hayashi stated that it is important to get the correct information to the community. He also offered that Board members visit schools and experience what is happening at schools with teachers and school level administrators.

Board Member Berg requested more information on specific ways to communicate so families do not feel so helpless. Hayashi replied that he will provide more details at an upcoming meeting.

Board Student Representative Kyla Musso, Student Representative asked if the Department is collecting data on student experiences during the quarantine or feedback from students. Hayashi stated that is a great suggestion and he will look into this going forward.

Board Member Barcarse stated that he is looking forward to scheduling school visits and that when the Department provides updates, he would like more data to be included to better prepare questions and comments. He used the example of the slide on vaccination status of employees, which contained a single number. He expressed appreciation for the distance learning options for Kaiapuni schools and asked if there are plans to connect with Hawaiian immersion charter schools to create opportunities.
Unebasami replied that the Office of Hawaiian Education has reached out to charter schools to provide options for instruction, to collaborate, and to share ideas.


VI. Late Public Testimony on Board Agenda Items

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

Linda Elento, public, testified on agenda item III.B. student achievement committee report. She asked for clarification on the example of how funds will be allocated to schools.

Board Member Berg left the meeting at 4:24 p.m.

Rebecca Hadley-Schlosser, public, testified on agenda item V.A. update on the opening of schools. She stated that as the school year is progressing she would like to work together with the Department to determine mitigation strategies and clarity on policies by bargaining the memorandum of understanding with HSTA.

Burke Burnett, public, testified on agenda item V.A. He commented on surveillance testing and rapid antigen testing, stated that the delta variant of COVID-19 has changed the situation, and encouraged the Board to do unannounced school visits to see what is happening.

Cara Flores, public, testified on agenda item V.A. update on the opening of schools. She stated that schools need to do a better job and families are being penalized for keeping their students home.

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





NameOrganizationAgenda Item
Katherine ShinsatoV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Zellie KamaheleV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Christi BarrowV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Charles FulksV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Vanessa PiconV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Nancy HalleyV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Warren HydeIII. B. Student Achievement Committee Report on: Presentation of the Department’s educational plan for the use of federal funds in the second round of ESSER II and in the third round of the ESSER funds authorized under the ESSER ARP
Joyce VeaV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
C. BurghardtIV. D. Board Action on Finance and Infrastructure Committee recommendations concerning renaming the school currently known as Central Middle School to Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani Middle School, & V. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Q. JoyV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Donelle SakumaV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Liberty FurchgottV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Dee GreenIV. D. Board Action on Finance and Infrastructure Committee recommendations concerning renaming the school currently known as Central Middle School to Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani Middle School
Kevin TynanV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Tammy HoltV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Eric IwasakiV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
David MiyashiroHawaiikidsCANIII. B. Student Achievement Committee Report on: Presentation on Department’s educational plan for the use of federal funds in the second round of the ESSER II and in the third round of ESSER ARP, & V. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Justin HugheyV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Jennifer KramerV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Inga ParkV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Ashely OlsonV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Alexis ‘Awapuhi DuldulaoV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Lynn OtaguroV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Erin Hayden-BaldaufV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Leimomi Ka‘ahili LeongV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Elizabeth BensonV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Alexandra ObraPrincipal, Waiāhole Elementary SchoolV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Cheri NakamuraHE‘E CoalitionV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Susan Pcola-DavisIV. A. Board action on Finance and Infrastructure Committee recommendations concerning priority allocation of federal funds in the second round of the ESSER II and in the third round of ESSER ARP to fund: Department budget shortfalls, & V. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Vickie KamV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Randy PerrieraHawaii Government Employees Association, Executive DirectorV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Mireille EllsworthIV. E. Board Action on Finance and Infrastructure Committee recommendations concerning priority allocation of federal funds in the second round of the ESSER II and in the third round of ESSER ARP to fund: Department budget shortfalls
Burke BurnettV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning
Osa Tui, Jr.HSTA, PresidentV. A. Update on opening of schools for the 2021-2022 school year: Continuing education for students in isolation and quarantine, Department employee vaccination status data, COVID-19 cases in schools and school positivity rates, masking guidance changes, distance learning status update for the Department’s state distance learning program and Kaiapuni programs, expanding COVID-19 testing in schools, and readiness of schools to transition to distance learning


VII. Adjournment

Board Chairperson Payne adjourned the meeting at 4:33 p.m.