School misdeeds
rose during
Christmas break

The incidents caught people
by surprise, coming when school
vandalism and thefts were down

By Crystal Kua
Star-Bulletin

Reports of break-ins and other mischief at island schools in recent weeks come when campus vandalism generally has been going down, officials say.

"Compared to several years ago, the number of events has diminished," acting Deputy School Superintendent Alfred Suga said.

Thousands of dollars of school equipment was stolen at Makaha Elementary in Leeward Oahu during Christmas break.

Classroom thefts at Kailua Intermediate, graffiti at several buildings at King Intermediate and a trashed courtyard and graffiti were among the misdeeds reported at Windward Oahu schools during this time.

"This usually happens over a long period when schools are not in session," acting Windward District Superintendent Thomas Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan and Leeward District Deputy Superintendent Alvin Nagasako also echoed Suga's sentiments on there being less vandalism in recent years.

"We had a lull for a while," Nagasako said. "Schools were doing good for a while."

Nagasako said Makaha once used to see vandalism at least once a week. "The vandalism at Makaha has been much less. . . . It runs in spurts."

Which is why, Nagasako said, the Christmas break vandalism caught some folks off guard. "When something like this occurs, it takes you aback because you're working well with the community."

Part of the reason for the decline has been that communities are beginning to take a more active role in seeing that their schools are safe and secure, Nagasako and other school officials said.

"Communities are beginning to take ownership of their schools," Suga said. "The school communities are assuming responsibility for a safer environment."

Nagasako said schools in Leeward Oahu are working hand-in-hand with neighbors and police. "Schools that have done so have witnessed some pleasant surprises," Nagasako said.

That community pride also could be seen when Makaha Elementary received donations and offers of help after the break-in.

Pangilinan said communities are also coming up with after-school activities to help keep students from becoming idle. "I think it's preventative."

Suga pointed to students taking charge of their schools. For example, student councils have seen that school restrooms, where some do illicit activities such as smoking, are safer and cleaner. He said another improvement is that school security guards are becoming better-trained.

Officials also said a failing economy can contribute to an increase in school break-ins. "For whatever purpose, they need the money. Schools do have equipment. Schools have enticing things that are attractive," Pangilinan said.