Column: Hawaii can lead the world in literacy, again
In the 19th century, the Hawaiian kingdom achieved one of the highest literacy rates in the world, where more than 90% of the...
Bill could place additional support in math classrooms
By: Victoria Budiono at Honolulu Star-Advertiser
Published on: March 5, 2026
A bill advancing at the state Capitol would establish a statewide numeracy coaching program in Hawaii public schools, as lawmakers and education officials grapple with persistent gaps in math achievement.
House Bill 1781, introduced by state Rep. Trish La Chica (D, Waipio-Mililani), would create the “Hawaii Numeracy Act” and require the state Department of Education to hire and deploy trained math coaches to schools across the state, prioritizing elementary campuses and those with the lowest proficiency rates.
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