Hawaii's public schools are demonstrating significant progress in their recovery from the academic setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the recent 2024-25 Strive HI Performance System report. This positive trend is crucial for Hawaii's business environment and its long-term economic vitality.
The Hawaii News Now reported on the Department of Education's findings, highlighting the overall positive developments. According to a report from Hawaiʻi public schools, improvements in science scores and student attendance rates were observed. Moreover, the report noted that the on-time graduation rate increased by one percentage point, reaching 86%.
Further research, as reported by Hawaii Business Magazine, showed Hawaii's students ranking high in academic recovery. In fact, Hawaii ranked second in the U.S. for reading recovery and fourth in math recovery. While acknowledging that there is still a learning lag, the data indicates that Hawaii students are recovering more quickly than most other states. This can benefit local businesses by providing a stronger pipeline of skilled workers.
For Hawaii's entrepreneurs, investors, and business professionals, these improvements signal a positive shift. A stronger educational foundation translates into a more capable workforce, crucial for business growth and innovation. A rise in educational attainment can potentially drive more investment in local businesses, particularly those that require a skilled labor force. These educational gains are pivotal for the long-term health of Hawaii's economy and its capacity to compete in an increasingly global landscape.
