UPDATE: Hawai‘i has reached a groundbreaking educational milestone with the immediate opening of its 100th public pre-kindergarten classroom at Maunawili Elementary School on Oʻahu. This development marks a crucial step toward achieving universal access to early education for the state’s youngest residents, known as keiki.
The announcement was made during a celebration led by Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, a prominent advocate of the Ready Keiki initiative. The latest data shows that the number of public pre-K classrooms has surged from just 37 in 2022 to a total of 117 classrooms across 89 locations statewide as of today.
“Just a few years ago, there were only a few dozen public pre-K classrooms statewide,” Lt. Gov. Luke stated. “Now, we’re celebrating our 100th. This just shows Hawaiʻi’s commitment to every child, every family, and every community.” This initiative aims to provide young learners with a solid foundation while ensuring families have access to trusted early education.
The Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL) is committed to further expanding access to pre-K education throughout the islands. “We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we know our work continues,” said EOEL Director Yuuko Arikawa-Cross. “Every new classroom represents a doorway to opportunity for families. Our goal is to meet families where they are and ensure every keiki in Hawaiʻi has access to a strong start.”
The new classroom in Maunawili emphasizes the state’s dedication to its youngest learners, accommodating up to 20 students aged 3 and 4. Priority enrollment is given to children in foster care, those from families facing homelessness, and other at-risk circumstances. Families interested in enrollment can apply or join the waitlist through the EOEL’s website or by contacting them directly at (808) 784-5350.
Recent expansions in August 2025 introduced additional public pre-K classrooms across the islands of Hawaiʻi, Kauaʻi, Maui, and Oʻahu. Notable locations include Kalaniʻanaʻole Elementary & Intermediate on Hawaii Island and Hāna High and Elementary on Maui, which features a Hawaiian language classroom, showcasing a commitment to cultural education.
This expansion not only highlights significant educational advancements but also broadens options for families in Windward Oʻahu. The EOEL continues to work diligently to ensure that every keiki in Hawaiʻi benefits from a quality early education experience.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as Hawaiʻi moves closer to realizing universal access to pre-kindergarten education for every child. This initiative represents a monumental step forward in providing essential learning opportunities for the state’s youngest residents.
