Schatz: $46M in federal funding for Hawaiian education programs extended

June 5, 2026 - 02:26

The U.S. Department of Education has agreed to extend $46 million in federal funding for Native Hawaiian education programs for an additional year, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz announced. The funding, which was set to expire, will continue to support a range of initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes for Native Hawaiian students across the state.

Schatz, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, confirmed the extension after working with federal officials to ensure the money remained available. The funds are distributed through the Native Hawaiian Education Program, which provides grants for early childhood education, college readiness, and culturally relevant curriculum development. The program also supports teacher training and community-based learning projects.

Without the extension, several schools and nonprofit organizations that rely on the grants would have faced significant budget gaps. Schatz noted that the funding is critical for addressing longstanding disparities in educational access and achievement among Native Hawaiian communities. He emphasized that the extension gives lawmakers more time to work on a long-term solution for the program's future.

The announcement was welcomed by educators and advocates who have pushed for stable funding. The money will be available through the next fiscal year, with the possibility of further renewals pending congressional action.