What's Being Discussed

The Hawaiʻi Early Intervention Coordinating Council (HEICC) will hold its quarterly meeting on August 26, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom. Key topics include:

• Federal grant update: Status of the Part C Early Intervention grant application that was due in May 2026
• Budget report: How state and federal funds are being spent and what balances remain
• Staffing: How many positions are filled, how many are vacant, and vacancy rates across multiple programs
• Complaints: Number and status of complaints filed by families about early intervention services
• New data system (HEIDS): A digital record system that has faced repeated delays — its launch date is currently unscheduled
• Workforce efforts: University grant programs (HPU and Chaminade) to train physical therapists, occupational therapists, and early intervention specialists; plus a salary study to support staff retention
• Program improvements: Updates on several pilot projects including the PLAY Project (autism support), Child Parent Psychotherapy, and Infant Mental Health training for staff
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing Workgroup: A meeting is planned to review an action plan based on recent recommendations

Decisions Expected

No formal votes are listed on this agenda. The meeting is primarily informational, with staff presenting updates on programs, budgets, and ongoing initiatives.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Families of infants and toddlers (ages 0–3) receiving early intervention services in Hawaiʻi
• Early intervention providers and therapists (OT, PT, speech, etc.)
• Advocates for children with disabilities or developmental delays
• Anyone interested in how the state supports young children with special needs

Questions? Contact Jeffrey Lee at 808-594-0000 or jeffrey.lee@doh.hawaii.gov. Public comments can be submitted by email, fax, or mail before the meeting.