HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hundreds of teachers are supposed to get their first paycheck today, while others are still waiting.
HSTA started the complaint process last week and they said they still donʻt know how many teachers still have not been paid.
“They should not have to sacrifice and be in limbo waiting. Whereʻs my paycheck? Whatʻs going to happen. This is completely unacceptable,” said Rep. Diamond Garcia. “This could potentially impact their rent, their car payment, their teacherʻs education.
DOE said $2,000 checks were offered to affected teachers.
An educator at a Hawaii Island charter school said theyʻre more like zero-interest loans which will have to be paid back when they receive their paychecks.
“Why pay someone money and then tell them ʻyou owe it back.ʻ Or hereʻs some money to help you out because we failed at paying you out on-time but you have to pay it back. It doesnʻt make sense.”
Both the DOE and DAGS have not responded to KHONʻs request for more information.
“Our committee, the education committee can hold DOE and DAGS feet to the fire and say exactly whatʻs going on, which teachers have been affected and DAGS whereʻs the money, whatʻs going on, letʻs get it out ASAP.”
DOE had initially told KHON2 that all teachers would have pay by Sept. 20 but have not confirmed whether that is still the case.