New school for displaced Lahaina students seen as ‘first step’ in town’s reconstruction

PULELEHUA (HawaiiNewsNow) - Monday was the first official workday for King Kamehameha III Elementary School teachers at their new temporary campus at Pulelehua.

They are preparing to welcome approximately 350 students on April 1.

“While we have been through unimaginable tragedy, this is the first step, the first testament that Lahaina and our people will be back,” said Congresswoman Jill Tokuda.

The original school along Lahaina’s Front Street was destroyed in the August wildfires.

Since then, students and staff have been using the Princess Nāhi’ena’ena Elementary School campus.

Monday morning started off with a blessing and dedication ceremony at the new temporary campus right below Kapalua Airport.

Teachers and staff joined hands, chanting their morning oli in honor of this monumental day.

“August 8th was a tragic day for the nation, as this most historic and culturally significant city perished under intense heat and flames,” said Col. Eric Swenson, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recovery field office commander.

A special piece from the original campus sits at the front of the new campus, which was built in 95 days.

“Army Corps of Engineers accomplished a mission in an unthinkable amount of time. This campus may be temporary but will long stand as a reminder that despite recent grief and loss, the children of Maui will have a safe place to learn, to dream, and to thrive,” said Curtis Brown, with FEMA.

School Principal Ian Haskins said they will also welcome about 60 Hawaiian language immersion keiki.

“Together, we can create the best environment for our students, teachers, and whole community,” he said.

When asked what the plans are for the permanent school location, Governor Green said it will be up to the people of Lahaina.

However, he said rebuilding at the school’s original location, makai of Front Street, may be challenging because of climate change and sea level rise.

“Recommitting ourselves to the cultural corridor, Moku’ula, and that’s a very important thing,” said Governor Green. “We’re going to be restoring fishponds. We’re going to make sure that we listen to our cultural leaders and the healers in the community.”

The school will be at the Pulelehua location for at least the next five years.

“We’ll all get through it together, and I think that’s something that’s really important that we all need to remember that together, we’ll help each other see things through,” said Hawaii Schools Superintendent Keith Hayashi.

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