Preschool is one of the most important investments we can make in a child’s future—laying the foundation for lifelong learning, health, and success. In partnership with the Lieutenant Governor’s Ready Keiki Initiative, the Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL), and the Hawai‘i State Public Charter School Commission, SFA is working to expand access to public preschool across the islands. Preschool also plays a vital role for working families, providing high-quality care so parents can pursue career opportunities and support Hawai‘i’s economy.
Today, more than 8,000 three- and four-year-olds across the state are unable to attend public preschool simply because there isn’t enough space. Hawai‘i’s shortage of classrooms means families are often left with long waitlists, high costs, or no options at all. The statewide goal: 405 additional classrooms by 2032.
To meet the goal of 405 new classrooms, SFA is pursuing 3 key strategies to create more preschool space across Hawai‘i:
By using standardized classroom designs, SFA has been able to fast track construction and maintain high-quality standards. These ready-to-use templates have simplified both renovations and new builds, resulting in significant costs savings and accelerated timelines. Partnering with proven, pre-qualified contractors has also helped to expedite construction timelines.
