Hawaii maintains a unique, statewide public education system, administering all K–12 public schools through a single district. This centralized structure influences the delivery of special education across the islands, presenting opportunities for consistent policy implementation as well as challenges related to geography, staffing, and access. Guided by federal law and state regulations, Hawaii has expanded inclusive practices, early intervention, and family engagement, while continuing to address workforce shortages and service disparities between urban and neighbor island communities.
This report examines Hawaii’s legal framework, specialized services, funding structure, and advocacy networks, highlighting both strengths and areas requiring further reform.
Legal Framework: Centralized Statewide Implementation
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Hawaii implements IDEA through the Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE), which serves as the sole Local Education Agency (LEA) statewide. All IDEA compliance, including evaluation, IEP development, service delivery, and due process, is managed centrally. Eligible students are guaranteed a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), with IEPs developed collaboratively by educators, families, and specialists.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act & Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Students not eligible under IDEA may receive accommodations through Section 504 plans, ensuring equal access to instruction, assessments, and activities. HIDOE ensures statewide compliance with non-discrimination mandates under Section 504 and the ADA, including facility and program accessibility.
Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR), Title 8 – Education
Hawaii’s special education procedures are outlined in HAR Chapter 60, which covers evaluation timelines, eligibility, parental consent, dispute resolution, and procedural safeguards. The rules emphasize family participation, culturally responsive practices, and service continuity across grade levels.
Specialized Services: Early and Continuous Support
Early Intervention – Hawaii Keiki Information Service System (Birth to Age 3)
Hawaii’s early intervention services are coordinated through the Hawaii Keiki Information Service System (H-KISS), which connects families to developmental screenings, evaluations, and Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs). Services include speech, occupational, and physical therapy, as well as family training, to prepare children for preschool services under IDEA Part B.
School-Age Services (Ages 3–21)
HIDOE offers a continuum of placements and services statewide, including inclusive general education classrooms, resource support, and specialized or self-contained settings as needed. Related services encompass speech-language therapy, behavioral supports, counseling, and assistive technology. Due to Hawaii’s island geography, service delivery frequently requires coordination across schools and regional complexes.
IEPs and Transition Planning
IEPs undergo annual review and are tailored to each student’s academic and functional needs. Transition planning commences by age 14, emphasizing postsecondary education, employment, and independent living. HIDOE collaborates with state vocational rehabilitation agencies and community organizations to support students transitioning from school to adult services.
Funding and Resource Allocation
Hawaii’s special education funding integrates federal IDEA funds, state appropriations, and general education resources within its centralized system. In contrast to multi-district states, Hawaii does not depend on local property taxes for education funding. This approach promotes baseline equity but may limit flexibility when costs increase.
Persistent challenges include:
High-cost services, such as intensive behavioral interventions and specialized placements
Recruitment and retention difficulties, particularly for special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, and school psychologists
Neighbor island access, where students may experience delays or limited services due to staffing shortages
Strengths and Ongoing Challenges
Strengths
Statewide Consistency: A single LEA allows uniform policies, procedures, and compliance monitoring across the state.
Inclusive Education Emphasis: Hawaii prioritizes placement in general education settings whenever appropriate, supported by co-teaching and push-in services.
Cultural Responsiveness: There is a growing focus on family engagement, language access, and culturally informed practices for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students.
Challenges
Workforce Shortages: Geographic isolation and high living costs impede the recruitment and retention of qualified professionals.
Service Delays: Evaluations and therapy services may be delayed, especially outside Oʻahu.
Capacity Strain: Centralized administration can limit flexibility in meeting local needs.
Advocacy Networks and Community Support
Families in Hawaii benefit from several advocacy and support organizations:
Hawaii Parent Training and Information Center (PTI): Offers workshops, IEP guidance, and individualized support for families navigating special education.
Disability Rights Hawaii: Serves as the state’s Protection and Advocacy agency, providing legal assistance and systemic advocacy.
University of Hawaii Programs: Support teacher preparation, research, and professional development in special education and related areas.
Opportunities for Growth
Expand Teletherapy and Remote Services: Using technology can improve access for students on neighbor islands.
Invest in Educator Retention: Housing incentives, loan forgiveness, and professional mentoring can help stabilize the workforce.
Improve Transition Outcomes: Better coordination with employers and postsecondary institutions can enhance post-school success.
Enhance Transparency: Clear public reporting on special education outcomes will strengthen accountability and trust.
Conclusion: Advancing Equity Accross the State
Hawaii’s special education system demonstrates both the potential and complexity inherent in a centralized, statewide approach. The system’s commitment to inclusion, early intervention, and family engagement establishes a strong foundation for students with learning differences.
To fully achieve this vision, Hawaii must address staffing shortages, geographic inequities, and increasing service demands. Investing in educators, expanding innovative service models, and maintaining strong partnerships with families and communities will enable continued progress toward a future in which every student on every island receives the support they need to succeed.