Administrative leave for Lahaina public school staff extended
Cleanup and assessments continue at three campuses; staff to meet at centralized West Maui location
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Staff at all four public schools in Lahaina will remain on paid administrative leave through Friday as cleanup and safety assessments continue at Princess Nahi'ena'ena Elementary, Lahaina Intermediate and Lahainaluna High, the state Department of Education announced Tuesday.
The campuses remain closed to students and staff; employees must receive express prior authorization to access the campuses. A fourth public school, King Kamehameha III Elementary, was destroyed in the fire.
Starting Monday, staff from all four schools will report to a centralized off-site location in West Maui that will be determined soon, the DOE said. The goal is to help staff transition back to work -- providing access to Office of Talent Management representatives, mental health training and services, and discussions surrounding next steps. Schools will be communicating additional details and information directly with staff.
"I want to again reassure our Lahaina employees that your well-being remains our priority," DOE Superintendent Keith Hayashi said in a news release Tuesday. "The voices of our Lahaina educators and staff will play an important part as we develop a way forward that best serves students."
While the campuses are closed and school phone lines are down, families and staff who are facing internet challenges and who need assistance can call the DOE's support hotline at (808) 727-6880, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. A DOE representative will help guide those in need with information and next steps relating to schools, enrollment and other resources.
Those with internet connection are encouraged to visit bit.ly/HIDOE-West-Maui-Resources for the latest information and resources.