OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT
March 24, 2020
March 24, 2020
Dear HIDOE parents and guardians,
We know these are uncertain and anxious times for everyone in our communities and we sincerely appreciate your patience and aloha as our response to this health crisis continues to evolve and we make the needed adjustments for health and safety.
Based on the latest guidance and information from health officials and our elected leaders, the Hawai‘i State Department of Education (HIDOE) will be aligning with the emergency orders directing residents statewide to remain at home and work from home through April 30. This means school facilities will be closed to students until at least April 30 and traditional in-school instruction is on hold until schools reopen.
HIDOE and charter schools will be sending out information about enrichment opportunities, including online resources and instructional packets. We encourage you to look out for information from your child’s school and teachers.
Please know that our public school system is still operating during this crisis. We are using alternative methods as we maximize our telework approach and find ways to remain connected with students. The HIDOE team is actively engaged in providing much-needed, modified services during these unprecedented times, including thousands of meals for children and enrichment opportunities. We are focused on minimizing disruption for students and supporting their emotional well-being.
For tips and tools to navigate and support your child’s continuous learning, please visit
bit.ly/HIDOEVirtualLearningParentResource.
bit.ly/HIDOEVirtualLearningParentResource.
By the end of this week, we will be sharing specific plans for our 10,000 eligible graduates. We will also be sharing out next-level information based on the planning work accomplished by our teachers and principals to guide us through the end of the school year.
The Department of Education remains focused on and committed to our educational mission and we look forward to resuming instruction and a sense of normalcy as quickly as possible. Thank you for your continued patience and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Dr. Christina Kishimoto
Superintendent
Superintendent