Hawaii's children are casting votes for the 2026 Nēnē Award to choose their favorite chapter book and graphic novel from 30 nominees. The winners will be announced in spring.

The Protect Kahoolawe 'Ohana marked 50 years of activism to stop military bombings on Kahoolawe, focusing on engaging the next generation in stewardship and cultural preservation.

Immersion classrooms have doubled in number while certified Kaiapuni teachers remain in short supply, prompting petitions, protests and a debate over how to train more kumu. Parents in Pearl City are among those pushing for local middle- and high-school options.

Dr. Trina Orimoto was selected for the APA's Leadership Institute for Women in Psychology, recognizing her contributions to psychological leadership and gender equity.

The Women’s Community Correctional Center held a Christmas event for incarcerated women and their families, aiming to maintain familial connections and potentially reduce recidivism.

Honolulu's ENV introduced a new $11 million UV disinfection system at the Kailua Wastewater Plant, enhancing ocean water safety and reducing chemical use.

New legislative filings show hundreds of people leave Hawaii prisons and jails without the IDs they need to find housing or work. Officials blame timing rules, agency bottlenecks and missing equipment.

Hawaiʻi updates parentage laws for LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, effective Jan. 1, 2026, with Act 298 replacing gendered terms and simplifying parental recognition.

Due to limited firecracker supplies, Kaua'i Fire Department paused online permit issuance, affecting New Year celebrations. Despite inventory issues, safety and regulations remain a priority.

Homeowners in Hawaiian Paradise Park voted to halt a mailbox-park project after workers uncovered a lava tube and ancestral remains at the site. The move pauses one of four mailbox parks and sets up state review.

Hawaii public schools now count more than 16,200 English learners as Chuukese becomes the top home language. The DOE says testing and staffing changes are driving the shift.

Hawaii's DOCARE is set to begin recruiting for 53 new conservation officers starting on January 3, 2026, with Chief Redulla highlighting the roles' importance. Applications have specific requirements and the State website will manage submissions.

Kaua‘i Police Department honored Officers Kamakahi, Barroga, and Thain, and Public Safety Workers Ganiron and Aceret with Employee of the Month awards for their exceptional service.