THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	2877
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

Relating to Education.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. (a) The department of education shall establish a one-year student-authored book publication pilot program in which students research, write, and publish original works. The program shall be designed to strengthen literacy, analytical thinking, and communication skills; increase student engagement and confidence; support students' academic progression and preparation for postsecondary education; and foster connections to culture and community.

(b) The pilot program shall be conducted at Kalihi public elementary schools and available to students in grade five.

(c) Under the student-authored book publication pilot program:

(1) Each teacher shall select a topic for their grade five class relating to Hawaiian culture or the local community;

(2) Each student shall write and illustrate a book on the selected topic; provided that the dimensions and length of the book shall be determined by the department of education according to available funds; and

(3) The department of education shall facilitate the collection, printing, binding, and return of the student-authored books.

(d) The department of education shall contract with a third party in accordance with chapter 103D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to implement the pilot program, including to fulfill its duties pursuant to subsection (c)(3).

(e) The department of education shall submit a report on the student-authored book publication pilot program to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2028. The report shall include:

(1) Assessments of the program's implementation, student outcomes, and the feasibility of continuing or expanding the program; and

(2) Additional findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment of the student-authored book publication pilot program.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of education for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.

INTRODUCED BY:

_____________________________

Report Title:

DOE; Student-Authored Book Publication Pilot Program; Kalihi; Grade Five; Report; Appropriation

Description:

Requires the Department of Education to establish a one-year Student-Authored Book Publication Pilot Program for fifth graders at Kalihi public elementary schools. Requires a report to the legislature. Appropriates funds.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.