Free public pre-kindergarten program available for keiki on Big Island

Parents can now apply for the State of Hawaiʻi’s free, high-quality pre-kindergarten programs that are available to all 3- and 4-year-old children on the Big Island.

The state’s Public Pre-kindergarten Program is designed to provide valuable learning experiences, with a commitment to inclusive education.

The program accepts up to 20 keiki per classroom, including those with special needs.

The state’s Executive Office on Early Learning operates the pre-kindergarten classrooms on Department of Education campuses, providing an opportunity for children to receive a year of preschool experience before beginning kindergarten.

There are currently 32 sites statewide that have been running for a few years, and as part of the lieutenant governor’s Ready Keiki Plan, there will be another 11 sites beginning this August.

On the Big Island, a new site will be at Waimea Elementary.

The program continues to be available at:

• Chiefess Kapiʻolani Elementary
• Hilo Union Elementary
• Hōnaunau Elementary
• Honokaʻa Elementary
• Keʻau Elementary
• Keonepoko Elementary
• Kohala Elementary
• Konawaena Elementary
• Mountain View Elementary
• Nāʻālehu Elementary
• Pāhoa Elementary

“We are thrilled that our keiki here on Hawaiʻi Island will be provided more options to access high-quality early education, setting them up for lifelong success,” Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth said in a press release. “We understand the immense impact of early exposure to education on students’ academic journey, which is why I urge all parents of young keiki to seriously consider applying for this invaluable free opportunity.

“By nurturing educated and culturally grounded keiki, we are building a sustainable Hawaiʻi Island where our children can flourish and thrive, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

Parents and families interested in enrolling their keiki can apply now. To learn more about the program and to submit an application, visit readykeiki.org.

The Executive Office on Early Learning can be contacted at 808-784-5350 or via email at eoel.info@eoel.hawaii.gov.