HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) is set to enhance world language programs at schools in the Aiea-Moanalua-Radford and Kailua-Kalaheo Complex Areas, thanks to two grants from the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA).
The DoDEA grants, which aim to support military dependents’ education, will fund new initiatives to expand language learning opportunities.
Since 2008, DoDEA has invested around $32.5 million in Hawaii public schools, helping to improve educational outcomes for students with military parents.
John Erickson, superintendent of the Aiea-Moanalua-Radford Complex Area, expressed gratitude for DoDEA’s ongoing support.
“We’re thrilled about the new learning opportunities this funding will bring. It will allow us to hire new language teachers, introduce cutting-edge technology, and offer a more comprehensive language curriculum from kindergarten through 12th grade,” Erickson said.
The Aiea-Moanalua-Radford Complex Area has been awarded a $2 million grant spread over five years.
This funding will establish a K-12 world language pathway, starting with new language programs at the elementary and middle school levels and encouraging high school students to advance to higher-level language courses.
The grant will benefit Aliamanu Elementary, Aliamanu Middle, Aiea Intermediate, and Radford High.
In addition, the Kailua-Kalaheo Complex Area received a $1.25 million grant.
This grant will increase access to Spanish and Japanese language instruction for K-6 military-connected students and offer world language programs through out-of-school-time activities.
The grant will support Aikahi, Kainalu, Keolu, Maunawili, and Mokapu elementaries.
For more information about DoDEA and its global educational support for military dependents, visit www.dodea.edu.