HIDOE releases after-action report on Maui wildfire response and recovery efforts

​The Hawai'i State Department of Education (HIDOE) released an after-action report detailing its response and recovery efforts following the devastating August 2023 Maui wildfires. The report, produced in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Education's Disaster Recovery Unit and other federal partners, highlights the challenges faced, actions taken, and lessons learned as the HIDOE worked to support the Lahaina school community.

The wildfires, which destroyed over 2,000 acres and displaced thousands of residents, had a direct impact on West Maui's public schools. King Kamehameha III Elementary School was destroyed, and the three remaining campuses -Princess Nāhiʻenaʻena Elementary, Lahaina Intermediate and Lahainaluna High- were temporarily closed due to unsafe conditions.

In the months following the disaster, the HIDOE implemented comprehensive measures to ensure students and staff could return to learning. These included providing alternative learning hubs, conducting extensive environmental testing to guarantee safety, and establishing a temporary campus for King Kamehameha III Elementary. The Department also prioritized mental health services, offering trauma-informed care to support students and staff during recovery.

The report outlines 10 key challenges, ranging from accounting for displaced students to managing transportation and meals. Among the HIDOE's successes, according to the report, was the rapid establishment of mental health services, including trauma-informed training for staff, partnerships with local and national mental health providers, and the deployment of additional counselors to West Maui schools. The Department was also commended for its transparent communication, including the creation of a public dashboard for environmental testing results and keeping families informed.

"We appreciate the U.S. Education Department's external review of our response to the Maui wildfires. This report reflects our commitment to learning from this unprecedented event and strengthening our preparedness for the future," Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. "The resilience of the Lahaina community and the dedication of our educators and staff embody the spirit of Lahaina Strong."

Click the image below to view the full report.

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