Hawaiʻi's public schools are showing promising signs of recovery from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hawai‘i State Department of Education's 2023-24 Strive HI Performance System report, released on September 19, 2024, highlights improvements in several key areas, including science, math, and language arts scores. Furthermore, the report notes increases in student attendance and college enrollment, suggesting a positive trajectory for the state's educational system.
These positive developments are particularly relevant for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors in Hawaiʻi. A stronger educational foundation directly translates into a more skilled and capable workforce, crucial for economic growth and stability. Hawaii Business Magazine's analysis emphasizes Hawaiʻi's progress in academic recovery, noting that students are recovering faster than the national average. While Hawaiʻi students initially performed about 13% of a grade level lower than in 2019, this is significantly better than the national average.
The Education Recovery Scorecard indicates that Hawaiʻi ranked 4th among states in terms of recovery in math and 2nd in reading between 2019 and 2024. This indicates the effectiveness of the strategies employed in the state to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on students. Also, Hawai‘i public schools saw increases in attendance rates, up by 2 percentage points to 75% and on-time graduation increased by 1 point to 86%.
The improvements in student outcomes are not just a victory for the education system; they also provide opportunities for businesses to engage in initiatives that support education. These could include internships, mentorship programs, and partnerships with schools to provide resources. Businesses that invest in education will gain a competitive advantage by helping to cultivate a strong, local talent pool. As The Center for Assessment studied, the impact level of the pandemic widely varied between schools. This data informs the business environment, as it creates a better understanding of the dynamics of the workforce.
