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More schools
rate tops in
yearly check

42 receive perfect scores;
very good and acceptable ratings
also increase and only one
was unacceptable

Star-Bulletin staff

Of the state's 251 schools, only Iao Intermediate School on Maui failed its inspection this year.

It is the second year in a row that a Maui school got the only unacceptable rating. Last year, Lahainaluna High School was singled out.

Lester Chuck, director of the Department of Education's facilities and support services branch, and Randal Tanaka, school inspection specialist, presented yesterday the 1999-2000 inspections to the Student Services Committee of the Board of Education.

Department officials say the number of top-rated schools is increasing.

Last year, 36 schools received top ratings in all categories, while this year, 42 got such marks.

On Oahu, perfect scores went to 13 Honolulu District schools: Aina Haina Elementary, Ala Wai Elementary, Aliiolani Elementary, Jefferson Elementary, Kahala Elementary, Kalihi Elementary, Kamiloiki Elementary, Liholiho Elementary, Linapuni Elementary, Lunalilo Elementary, Nuuanu Elementary, Royal Elementary and Wilson Elementary.

The Central District had four: Haleiwa Elementary, Mililani High, Mililani-Waena Elementary and Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary.

The Leeward District had seven: Holomua Elementary, Kapolei Middle, Manana Elementary, Momilani Elementary, Palisades Elementary, Pearl City Elementary and Waiau Elementary.

The Windward District, four: Aikahi Elementary, Kaelepulu Elementary, Kainalu Elementary and Waiahole Elementary.

Perfect scores went to seven Big Island schools: Honokaa Elementary, Kahakai Elementary, Keaau Elementary, Keaau High, Kealakehe Elementary, Keonepoko Elementary and Kohala Elementary.

Four Maui schools rated tops: Baldwin High, Kahului Elementary, Kamalii Elementary and Maui Waena Intermediate.

Three rated perfect on Kauai: Eleele Elementary, Kilauea Elementary and Waimea High.

Of the 251 schools, 142 received very good ratings, an increase from 120 schools last year; and 108 were rated acceptable, compared to 128 last year.

The department routinely follows up with schools rated unacceptable in any category to assist in correcting deficiencies.

Most often, substandard ratings were assigned over bad paint condition, termite infestation, roof and gutter leaks, old playground equipment, poor drainage, old furniture, worn carpets, walkways and sidewalks, restrooms, railings, drinking fountains, lighting, fire alarms, bells and storage areas in that order. Resurfacing needs and overall aging facilities rounded out the list.