The Maui News

WAILUKU–Governor Josh Green, M.D., Maui Mayor Richard Bissen, the Hawai’i State Department of Education (HIDOE) and Kamehameha Schools have begun discussions to explore the possibility of establishing a new permanent home for Kamehameha III Elementary School on Kamehameha Schools’ land in Ku’ia, Lahaina. Its current temporary site is on a leased parcel over seven miles from the original school that was destroyed in the fires of August 8, 2023.

“We’re pleased to announce that collaborative planning is underway with Maui County, our State Department of Education and Kamehameha Schools to explore rebuilding Kamehameha III Elementary School at Ku’ia, approximately two miles from its original location, and outside of the impacted area,” said Governor Green. “This joint effort reflects our shared commitment to restoring Lahaina in the way the community most desires.”

Kamehameha Schools is offering for consideration up to 16 acres of its Ku’ia lands for the elementary school and is reserving additional Ku’ia lands for other Hawaiian culture, ‘ōlelo Hawai’i and ‘āina-focused educational uses. “Schools are the heart of any community, and we are hopeful that placing Kamehameha III Elementary School on our Ku’ia lands will help support Lahaina’s restoration,” said Jack Wong, Kamehameha Schools’ Chief Executive Officer.

“Keeping Kamehameha III Elementary in Lahaina is vital to the town’s recovery, preserving its heritage, and helping the community regain a sense of normalcy,” said Maui Mayor Richard Bissen. “This marks a key step in healing and finding solutions guided by the voices of the community. We are grateful to our partners for their continued commitment to Lahaina and look forward to further discussions.”

Located ma kai of the Lahaina Bypass and ma uka of the tsunami inundation zone, the proposed Ku’ia site for Kamehameha III Elementary would address the community’s wish to have the school re-established near its original location. “With the Ku’ia site now a possibility, we’re eager to seek feedback from our families and staff,” said Rebecca Winkie, Hawai’i State Department of Education Complex Area Superintendent for Hāna, Lahaina, Lāna’i and Molokai.

HIDOE plans to hold a meeting later this month for community members and school staff to provide feedback on the new proposed permanent site.