About the author: Dr. Amy Perruso spent most of her career as National Board Certified AP social studies teacher in Hawaii public schools. Prior to her election to the House, she also served as the HSTA Secretary-Treasurer and as the only secondary teacher on the Governor’s Blueprint for Education Task Force. Currently serving her second term as the representative for Hawaii State District 46 (Wahiawa – Launani Valley – Whitmore Village), Rep. Perruso first served as Vice-Chair on the Committee for Lower and Higher Education, and currently serves as the Vice Chair of Agriculture and as a member of the Finance and Energy/ Environmental Protection committees. Rep. Perruso is the Co-Chair of the Hawaii State Judiciary’s Commission to Promote and Advance Civic Education, and Vice Chair of the Standing Education Committee of the National Conference of State Legislators.

In the beautiful islands of Hawaii, we often think of serene beaches, lush landscapes, and a vibrant cultural heritage. However, beneath the postcard-perfect surface lies a pressing issue that needs immediate attention: the underfunding of our public education system. As a politically conscious, community-oriented, and environmentally minded resident of Hawaii, I strongly believe that it’s time we address this issue head-on.

Hawaii is unique in its approach to public education, with the responsibility falling on the state rather than local subdivisions. However, this system has led to a significant funding gap, leaving our public schools struggling to provide the quality education our children deserve. According to a 2017 analysis, Hawaii’s education expenditures are the lowest in the nation when compared to combined state and local government expenditures. This financial shortfall has contributed to a high rate of private school enrollment among Hawaii families.

Furthermore, the majority of our public schools are considered Title I schools, indicating the presence of high-needs students. The aging school facilities, with an average age of sixty-one years, are in dire need of repairs and maintenance. Teachers, despite their dedication, face some of the lowest pay rates in the United States when adjusted for our high cost of living.

The consequences of underfunding are palpable: overheated classrooms, larger class sizes, inadequate supplies, cuts to essential programs, and a shortage of qualified educators. We owe it to our children to provide them with a quality education that prepares them for the challenges of the twenty-first century.

To address this issue, a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the State of Hawaii aims to establish a surcharge on residential investment property valued at three million dollars or greater, excluding primary residences. This surcharge, if implemented, would provide a new source of funding dedicated to improving our public education system.

The proposed amendment is a step in the right direction. By embracing a more progressive taxation model, we can ensure that those who can afford to contribute more to our education system do so, without burdening the majority of Hawaii residents. This approach aligns with the principles of equity and justice that many of us hold dear.

As a concerned resident of Hawaii who believes in the power of community and progressive change, I urge all of us to come together and vote in favor of this amendment. Let’s stand up for our children, our communities, and the future of our beloved Hawaii. It’s time to invest in education, foster equality, and pave the way for a more just and sustainable future.

Shall we support this amendment, taxing secondary residential investment property over $3M, to benefit schools? Send your thoughts to info@ppshi.org