Skip to content

Two Hawaii Schools Lead the Way in Civic Education and Democracy

How two Hawaii schools are reshaping education by empowering students to think critically and engage with democracy. Their innovative approach sets a new benchmark for civic learning.

The image shows the entrance to Baliwag South Central School, with an arch with text on it, a gate,...
The image shows the entrance to Baliwag South Central School, with an arch with text on it, a gate, a wall, a fence, a group of trees, some houses, and a cloudy sky.

Two Hawaii Schools Lead the Way in Civic Education and Democracy

Two Hawaii schools, Ewa Makai Middle School and Waialua High & Intermediate School, have been recognized for their commitment to civic education and democratic values. These institutions, the first middle-level schools to receive the Hawaii Schools of Democracy designation, foster student engagement, critical thinking, and community involvement. The initiative, supported by the Judiciary's Commission to Promote and Advance Civic Education (PACE), honors schools prioritizing civic learning. These schools prepare students to become informed, active citizens by integrating democratic principles into their curriculum. At Ewa Makai Middle School, Principal Corey Barton credited social studies teachers for their strong foundation in civic education, providing hands-on experiences and encouraging respectful discussions. Waialua High & Intermediate School's Principal Christine Alexander praised students for holding adults accountable and commended teachers for guiding civic learning with purpose, aligning with the Aloha Spirit and Na Hopena A'o - core Hawaiian values. Judge Sonja McCullen and DOE Superintendent Keith Hayashi applauded the schools for nurturing civic-minded, constitutionally informed citizens. PACE Commission Vice Chair Rep. Amy Perruso described the Schools of Democracy seal as a mark of capacity building, signaling a school's dedication to developing students who understand and participate in democratic processes. No other Hawaii schools received the designation in 2023, and no specific programs or projects beyond the two recognized institutions were detailed in official reports. The recognition places Ewa Makai Middle School and Waialua High & Intermediate School at the forefront of civic education in Hawaii, setting a standard for other institutions to integrate civic responsibility into their daily practices.

Read also:

Latest