Commentary from Senator Sakamoto

March 12, 2007

High School Academies

On March 8, the Honolulu Advertiser published an article: "Like-minded students learn together."  The article describes how Waiakea High School, with the help of federal grant money, has developed six academies or career path programs for its students.  The academies help students focus their attention and energies on a specialty such as: industrial technology and engineering; business; Pacific Rim cultures and natural resources; public and human-service studies; health and fitness; and arts and communications. 

Senate Bill 1933 Senate Draft 2, the Education Omnibus Bill, would help to support similar learning academies throughout the State.  The bill was passed by the Senate of March 6 and sent to the House of Representatives.