News

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

Play
Listen to this Article
1 minute
Loading Audio... Article will play after ad...
Playing in :00
A
A
A

Free public pre-kindergarten is available at 43 sites throughout Hawaiʻi, including 12 on the Big Island. (Photo courtesy: State of Hawaiʻi)

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.

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD

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.

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD

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.”

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD

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.

Sponsored Content

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay in-the-know with daily or weekly
headlines delivered straight to your inbox.
Cancel
×

Comments

This comments section is a public community forum for the purpose of free expression. Although Big Island Now encourages respectful communication only, some content may be considered offensive. Please view at your own discretion. View Comments