The DOE sent this statement to KITV-4: “HIDOE is partnering with the DOH, the lead public health agency for our State, on COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and contact tracing efforts. Masking, ventilation, handwashing and respiratory etiquette, reminding students and staff to stay home when sick, cleaning and disinfection, are additional layers of prevention recommended by the CDC that the HIDOE is implementing to help keep schools safe. It’s important to note that Hawaii public schools have proven to be safe spaces throughout the pandemic. Despite more than 1,000 cases reported by schools and offices since June 2020, consistent adherence to safety protocols has meant that there has been very limited transmission of the virus at DOE facilities. We also have an added layer of protection with COVID vaccinations more widely available, including for adolescents ages 12 and older. Since May, the Department has hosted more than 100 school-based vaccination clinics statewide to make vaccinations available to students and families ahead of the new school year. HIDOE encourages all eligible individuals to get vaccinated. The more students, teachers, staff and family members that do so will all help to keep our schools safe from COVID-19.”
