Kamehameha Schools
takes ‘corrective action’Hawaiians can get scholarships to finish
college if they teach at failing public schools
Kamehameha Schools says many of the public schools that do not meet certain federal education requirements have high numbers of Hawaiian students.
Under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, those schools must correct the deficiencies to comply with the federal law.
Kamehameha Schools says many of the problem schools -- or corrective-action schools -- must deal with high teacher turnover and instructional staff that lack teaching credentials.
To try to help, Kamehameha Schools announced scholarships yesterday for Hawaiian students seeking a college teaching degree or wanting to fulfill credential requirements, if they will commit to teaching in the corrective-action schools that have Hawaiian-student enrollment of at least 33 percent.
"It is for people from the community who are willing to go back and make a difference," said Teresa Makuakane-Dreschel, Kamehameha Schools executive director of admissions and financial aid. "We want to encourage more people of Hawaiian ancestry to pursue educational careers, and we need them in schools where Hawaiians make up a significant portion of the student body."
Kamehameha Schools will grant $500,000 a year for the Pauahi Educators and Kumu Kokua scholarships for Hawaiian students seeking careers in education.
The Pauahi Educators scholarship will provide financial assistance to at least 25 students in the last two years of their Bachelor of Education or post-baccalaureate teaching programs.
The Kumu Kokua scholarship provides financial assistance to 50 educational assistants currently working in corrective-action public schools with Hawaiian students and who stand to lose their jobs if they do not earn the necessary credentials by 2006 under the federal regulations. The scholarships will provide assistance with tuition, books and supplies at community colleges.
"It is especially positive because educational assistants can continue to work in their schools and go to class," said Kathy Jaycox, of the University of Hawaii Community Colleges. "Some may even decide to get their bachelor's degree and return to teach."
Charlene Hoe, interim vice president of education at Kamehameha, said she hopes this will help alleviate the state's teacher shortage.
"I'm very excited because now teachers and educational assistants will stay in the field and provide a strong foundation for growth," she said.
The deadline to apply is July 15. Scholarships are awarded according to financial need. Call 842-8216 for more information. Forms are also available at www.ksbe.edu.