Schatz, McMahon agree on $46 million funding extension for Native Hawaiian Education Program

June 6, 2026 - 03:26

A new funding agreement will keep the Native Hawaiian Education Program running for at least another year, with $46 million set aside to support early childhood education grants. Senator Brian Schatz and Representative Jenna McMahon reached the deal, which guarantees that more than 60 grant recipients across the state will remain fully funded.

The extension comes as a relief for many community-based organizations that rely on the federal dollars to operate preschools, family engagement programs, and cultural learning centers. These grants serve Native Hawaiian children and families, focusing on language preservation and school readiness. Without the funding, several programs faced the risk of shutting down or cutting services mid-year.

Under the agreement, the money will flow directly to existing grantees, avoiding any disruption in classrooms or support services. Lawmakers emphasized that the extension is not a permanent fix but a necessary step to maintain stability while longer-term reauthorization talks continue. Advocates for Native Hawaiian education have pushed for sustained investment, arguing that early childhood programs are critical for closing achievement gaps and strengthening cultural identity.

The funding covers operational costs, teacher salaries, and curriculum materials. It also allows programs to plan for the next academic year without the uncertainty that has plagued previous budget cycles. Officials expect the extension to be signed into law within weeks, ensuring that the current cohort of grantees can continue their work without interruption.