The Promise of Universal Access to Pre-K. Ready Keiki is a statewide public-private effort to expand access to preschool for all 3 and 4 year olds.
![<a href="https://ltgov.hawaii.gov/featured/historic-number-of-public-pre-k-classrooms-to-open-this-august/">HISTORIC NUMBER OF PUBLIC PRE-K CLASSROOMS TO OPEN THIS AUGUST<br /><span>Read More<span class="fa3icon icon-signin"></span></span></a>](wp-content/themes/hic_state_template_parent/timthumb/timthumb.php?src=https://ltgov.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Website-Headers-2.png&h=500&w=1920&q=100)
![<a href="https://ltgov.hawaii.gov/featured/state-awarded-4-9-million-state-apprenticeship-expansion-grant-to-support-teacher-workforce/">STATE AWARDED $4.9 MILLION STATE APPRENTICESHIP EXPANSION GRANT TO SUPPORT TEACHER WORKFORCE<br /><span>Read More<span class="fa3icon icon-signin"></span></span></a>](wp-content/themes/hic_state_template_parent/timthumb/timthumb.php?src=https://ltgov.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Website-Headers-1.png&h=500&w=1920&q=100)
![<a href="https://ltgov.hawaii.gov/featured/preschool-open-doors-now-accepting-applications-year-round/">PRESCHOOL OPEN DOORS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS YEAR-ROUND<br /><span>Read More<span class="fa3icon icon-signin"></span></span></a>](wp-content/themes/hic_state_template_parent/timthumb/timthumb.php?src=https://ltgov.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Website-Headers.png&h=500&w=1920&q=100)
![<a href="https://ltgov.hawaii.gov/featured/first-ever-hawai%ca%bbi-delegation-advocates-for-agricultural-support-at-the-united-states-department-of-agriculture/">First-Ever Hawaiʻi Delegation Advocates for Agricultural Support at the United States Department of Agriculture<br /><span>Read More<span class="fa3icon icon-signin"></span></span></a>](wp-content/themes/hic_state_template_parent/timthumb/timthumb.php?src=https://ltgov.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Website-Headers-1.png&h=500&w=1920&q=100)
Connect With Lt. Governor Luke
I had the pleasure of meeting with some of our local Girl Scouts. We discussed my role as Lieutenant Governor, from overseeing name changes and document authentications to leading our state’s pre-K and high-speed internet initiatives.
These inspiring young leaders reminded me that we can achieve anything we set our minds to, as long as we do it with courage, confidence, and most importantly — character. Mahalo to @girlscoutshi for stopping by! 💚🌟
...
Six new pre-kindergarten classrooms have opened across Maui County this school year! Offered through the state’s Public Pre-Kindergarten Program, these six new classrooms on Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi are free and accepting applications on a rolling basis. ✏️📚
Mahalo to our #ReadyKeiki partners for their continued efforts to expand access to early learning across our state. Apply and learn more by visiting readykeiki.org/apply or the #linkinbio.
#hawaiipreschool #hawaiiprek #hawaiikeiki #keikifirst
...
Over the past year, we’ve witnessed unparalleled resilience from our Maui ʻohana. As we mark one year since the devastating wildfires, we are reminded of the strength of our people and the aloha that unites us.
My heart is with everyone affected by the fires who continue to find healing and peace. To those who lost loved ones, the brave first responders, and the entire Maui ʻohana who have shown unwavering strength in the face of adversity — our entire state continues to stand with you as we move forward together. #MauiStrong
...
Ensuring that every person in Hawai‘i has dependable access to affordable high-speed internet is crucial to our state’s economic, educational, and social progress 🛜
The Biden-Harris Administration and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) have committed $149 million to our efforts to ensure all of Hawaiʻi is connected – from Hanalei to Hilo, mauka to makai, and everywhere in between.
Learn more at ConnectKakou.org
#ConnectKakou #digitalequityhawaii #broadbandhui #internetforall #hawaiibroadband
...
Our furry friends are a part of our families, so it was truly a delight to visit the Hawaiian Humane Society’s Kosasa Family Campus at Ho’opili and present the Governor’s proclamation for “Hawaiian Humane Society Day” during their one-year anniversary 🐾🎉
The Humane Society’s campus serves as a gathering place to build a more compassionate community. It has helped more than 800 animals find new homes and provide care for over 400 stray animals.
From supporting the initial state funding during my time as Finance Chair to now seeing families adopt their new furry family members, it was such a heartwarming day. Mahalo to @hawaiianhumane for all that you do!
...
Happy 28th Anniversary, Mike! 💙 ...
Happy #PreKFriday! ✏️📚 Two free pre-kindergarten classrooms will open on Kauaʻi for the 2024-2025 school year at #KapaaElementary! Offered through the state’s Public Pre-Kindergarten Program, these classrooms are a part of the 44 new pre-k classrooms opening statewide.
Mahalo to the continued efforts of the #ReadyKeiki partners to expand access to early learning across our state. Apply and learn more by visiting readykeiki.org/apply or the #linkinbio.
#hawaiipreschool #hawaiiprek #hawaiikeiki #keikifirst
...
Today, I had the honor of celebrating the announcement of girls’ flag football in Hawaiʻi. 52 years ago, Title IX and Hawaiʻi’s very own Patsy Mink made history – giving female athletes the right to equal opportunity in sports.
To think of all the young girls who grew up watching their brothers, cousins, and friends play football wishing they could jump in, now will have the opportunity to play the game. Progress takes dedication, and today we paved the way for future athletes. 🌺🏈
...
The Hawaiʻi State Public Library System is offering free computer classes to help you learn essential technology skills! These one-hour classes are easy to follow and perfect for beginners. Visit your local library to become proficient in computer basics, accessing the internet, sending emails, and much more! 🖥🖱
Visit librarieshawaii.org/basic-computer-classes/ to register for free computer classes at your local library!
#ConnectKakou #digitalequityhawaii #broadbandhui
...
Mahalo to U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary Carmen Cantor for visiting our state to announce funding to prevent the Brown Treesnake in Hawaiʻi. This funding will enable our Department of Agriculture to invest in the detection, suppression, and control of this invasive species.
Native to the South Pacific and accidentally introduced to Guam in the 1940s, the Brown Treesnake has devastating ecological impacts. With our proximity to Guam, the threat to our unique biodiversity can be significant.
As Hawaiʻi continues to combat invasive species, partnerships among federal, state, and local entities are crucial for managing pest risks and securing biosecurity for our state.
...
The start of the 2024-25 school year next week will mark the official opening of 44 new public preschool classrooms across the state. It’s so exciting to see more free, accessible pre-K opening for our keiki 🙌📚
For the full list of participating EOEL Public Pre-K Program schools, or to apply, visit earlylearning.ehawaii.gov. #linkinbio
#ReadyKeiki
...
This August, 44 new public preschool classrooms will open across our state, with at least one classroom on every island 👏
This is the most public preschools the state has ever opened in one year. It’s a testament to the need for early learning opportunities across our state to ensure that every child can be ready for their future.
The 820 pre-K seats being added this year is just one step in our continuous work under the #ReadyKeiki initiative to ensure that every keiki, now and in the future, has the tools and learning opportunities to succeed.
...
Hawaiʻi has faced a teacher shortage for years. Addressing it will take a coordinated effort, so I’m grateful to the Department of Education, Department of Labor & Industrial Relations, and our Hawai’i Teacher Standards Board for their vision and commitment to support our future teachers.
This $4.9 million from the U.S. Department of Labor will help our state launch an “earn and learn” program to support aspiring teachers by removing financial barriers and providing the benefits and mentorship they need to succeed.
...
Earlier this month, I had the great honor of meeting President Yoon and First Lady Kim of the Republic of Korea during their visit to Honolulu.
Our bond with Korea dates back over 120 years, beginning with the first Korean immigrants who journeyed from Incheon to Hawaiʻi. Since then, our nations have nurtured a rich cultural exchange rooted in mutual support and friendship. Hawaiʻi and Korea share a deep connection that continues to thrive through our shared values and community ties.
Mahalo and aloha, President Yoon 🌺🇰🇷
...
“At this time, the State of Hawaiʻi’s IT system remains unaffected by the global CrowdStrike and Microsoft technology outage. My office has been in contact with our hospitals, banks, telecommunications, and other key public services to which no significant impacts have been reported.
Currently, hospitals and healthcare systems have reported minimal impact. Residents with scheduled appointments should check with their medical providers before proceeding.
Yesterday evening, a number of airlines servicing Hawaiʻi were affected, issuing systemwide ground stops. As of this morning, the airline communication systems are back online. Passengers should check with their airline prior to going to the airport and should expect delays.
Residents and businesses experiencing outages, should contact their service providers directly for further guidance.
Our ability to stay connected online is critical and we’ll continue to monitor this developing situation and provide support where needed.”
- Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke
...
Happy #PreKFriday! ✏️📚Four new pre-kindergarten classrooms are set to open across Hawaiʻi Island for the 2024-2025 school year! Offered through the state`s Public Pre-Kindergarten Program, these new classrooms are part of the groundbreaking 44 new pre-k classrooms opening statewide.
Mahalo to our #ReadyKeiki partners for their continued efforts to expand access to early learning across our state. Apply and learn more by visiting readykeiki.org/apply or the #linkinbio.
#hawaiipreschool #hawaiiprek #hawaiikeiki #keikifirst
...
From Hanalei to Hilo, mauka to makai, and everywhere in between — #ConnectKakou is committed to ensuring all of Hawaiʻi has access to high-speed, reliable internet.
Mahalo to the Biden-Harris Administration and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for their support of our broadband expansion efforts.
...
I’ve been on the ground in Kauaʻi since last night to offer my support to the County of Kauaʻi, Mayor Kawakami, and his team as they responded to a quickly moving brush fire in Hanapēpē. It was incredible to see their synergy in the EOC and proactive coordination with state agencies to suppress the fire and evacuate residents.
As of early this morning, the fire has been 100% contained. Mahalo nui loa to the Mayor for his leadership, all of the state, county, federal, and community partners — and of course, our first responders on the ground who were steadfast in holding the line to prevent further spread.
...
“On behalf of the state of Hawaiʻi, I extend my deepest condolences to the ʻohana and loved ones of those involved in this tragic accident. Guy Croyden, and James and Amy Nichole Ruark Quintua are in the thoughts and prayers of our community at this difficult time.
For the last four days, the Coast Guard, County of Kauaʻi, along with many of our state and federal partners led an extensive search and recovery operation. Mahalo nui loa to Mayor Kawakami for his leadership, and the rescue teams for their aloha and dedicated efforts. We remain committed to supporting the affected families in any way we can.”
- Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke
...
I’m heartbroken about the news of Representative Mark Nakashima’s passing, who has been my close friend ever since attending UH Mānoa together.
Mark was not only a strong advocate for his constituents but also a champion for medical access and equality in our rural communities. I will miss him dearly and send my prayers and aloha to his loved ones during this time.
...
I had the pleasure of meeting with some of our local Girl Scouts. We discussed my role as Lieutenant Governor, from overseeing name changes and document authentications to leading our state’s pre-K and high-speed internet initiatives.
These inspiring young leaders reminded me that we can achieve anything we set our minds to, as long as we do it with courage, confidence, and most importantly — character. Mahalo to @girlscoutshi for stopping by! 💚🌟
... See MoreSee Less
Six new pre-kindergarten classrooms have opened across Maui County this school year! Offered through the state’s Public Pre-Kindergarten Program, these six new classrooms on Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi are free and accepting applications on a rolling basis. ✏️📚
Mahalo to our #ReadyKeiki partners for their continued efforts to expand access to early learning across our state. Apply and learn more by visiting readykeiki.org/apply or the #linkinbio.
#hawaiipreschool #hawaiiprek #hawaiikeiki #keikifirst
... See MoreSee Less
Over the past year, we’ve witnessed unparalleled resilience from our Maui ʻohana. As we mark one year since the devastating wildfires, we are reminded of the strength of our people and the aloha that unites us.
My heart is with everyone affected by the fires who continue to find healing and peace. To those who lost loved ones, the brave first responders, and the entire Maui ʻohana who have shown unwavering strength in the face of adversity — our entire state continues to stand with you as we move forward together. #MauiStrong
... See MoreSee Less
Our furry friends are a part of our families, so it was truly a delight to visit the Hawaiian Humane Society’s Kosasa Family Campus at Ho’opili and present the Governor’s proclamation for “Hawaiian Humane Society Day” during their one-year anniversary 🐾🎉
The Humane Society’s campus serves as a gathering place to build a more compassionate community. It has helped more than 800 animals find new homes and provide care for over 400 stray animals.
From supporting the initial state funding during my time as Finance Chair to now seeing families adopt their new furry family members, it was such a heartwarming day. Mahalo to @hawaiianhumane for all that you do!
... See MoreSee Less
Happy 28th Anniversary, Mike! 💙 ... See MoreSee Less
Based on research findings and recent data, children in low- to middle-income households who attend preschool can expect to earn an additional $2,400 to $4,700 (in 2023 dollars) in annual income at age 35.
🖊Michael Tsai
1 in 3 households in Hawai‘i are facing hunger. And for many, fresh produce is the first thing to fall off their grocery lists. 🍊🥬 This #FoodDriveDay, 8/24, you can help provide local families with the nutritious food we all deserve. Visit to learn more.
Expanding preschool access to all 3- and 4-year olds in Hawaiʻi will lead not only to immediate benefits, such as enhanced kindergarten readiness, but also long-term advantages, including higher adult earnings. @rachelinafuku