Story perspectives

Hawaiian Immersion Programs Surge Amid Teacher Shortage

1/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Kaiapuni Hawaiian immersion programs have grown enrollment by 68% over the past decade, while local enrollments decline.
Expansion faces a shortage of qualified teachers, with the Department of Education having three unfilled positions and needing 165 more in the decade ahead.
Families seek more immersion options, especially in Pearl City where middle and high school programs are lacking.
Experts say expanding Hawaiian language classes could help increase the teacher pool.

1 of 1

Story summary

Kaiapuni Hawaiian immersion programs have grown enrollment by 68% over the past decade, while local enrollments decline.
Expansion faces a shortage of qualified teachers, with the Department of Education having three unfilled positions and needing 165 more in the decade ahead.
Families seek more immersion options, especially in Pearl City where middle and high school programs are lacking.
Experts say expanding Hawaiian language classes could help increase the teacher pool.