What's Being Discussed

Updates from board members, including a remembrance of longtime Maui early childhood advocate Carol Hayashida, and a report on federal child care funding requirements and an infant/toddler pilot program.
Early learning system updates from the Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL), covering teacher pay stipends, new public pre-kindergarten classrooms for the 2026–27 school year, federal Head Start program changes, and updates to professional standards for early educators.
Community and family support activities across the islands, including back-to-school events on Kauaʻi and in Puna, and a preschool jamboree in Pāhoa.
Health, special needs, and early intervention updates, including a program formerly known as Hawaiʻi Zero To Three Court.
Planning for the 2027 legislative session, including possible budget requests and policy proposals related to early childhood care and education.
Review of the EOEL Director's annual evaluation for the 2025–26 year.

Decisions Expected

A vote to approve the July 2026 meeting minutes.
A vote on policy priorities for 2027, continuing a discussion from the previous month.
A possible vote related to the EOEL Director's evaluation.

Who Should Pay Attention

Parents and families with young children, especially those using preschool or childcare services.
Early childhood educators and childcare providers statewide.
Anyone interested in Hawaii's public pre-kindergarten expansion or early learning funding.
Residents on all islands, as county-level updates are included.

The meeting is open to the public in person in Honolulu or online via Zoom. Public comments are limited to 2 minutes per agenda item. Written testimony must be submitted by 3 p.m. on August 11, 2026.