West Maui public school campuses to remain closed through next week

HIDOE’s four public school campuses in Lāhainā will remain shut down for an additional week, through Friday, Aug. 18.

While the Department is working to solidify next steps for what school operations will look like for West Maui, we are also trying to ensure we can account for all students, staff and families. The extended closures are also aimed at allowing students, families and staff to care for themselves and loved ones and start to reestablish their bearings during this stressful and devastating time.

Damage assessments of the Lāhainā campuses are pending safe access to the sites. A HIDOE representative was able to confirm the severe fire and structural damage to King Kamehameha III Elementary campus on Front Street in Lāhainā on Thursday. The Department is working with emergency response officials to gain access to the area as soon as safely possible to assess the scope and degree of damage to each of the Lahaina schools.

For all other Maui public schools, an update on reopening plans will be made tomorrow. Schools in Upcountry, South and Central Maui will have phased reopening plans to first bring back staff, followed by students. This will give school teams time to assess damage and capacity to welcome students back safely.

In response to the outpouring of generosity and support toward the recovery of our West Maui school communities, the Department is partnering with the Public Schools of Hawai‘i Foundation to support our impacted school communities. The most immediate need and request from our Maui schools is for monetary donations that can provide direct support for response efforts.