The statewide school program in Hawaii is among the tenth largest in the United States, and the only single unified system in the nation. The Hawaii school district consists of 285 schools on seven islands, with over 181,000 students.

All children between six and 18 years of age must attend school; however, kindergarten is not mandatory in Hawaii. It is offered for children reaching the age of five by August 1 of the school year. Kindergarten is full day. Junior Kindergarten is also offered in schools.

Most schools, except charter and multi track schools, are on a single school calendar and start around July 28. See the Hawaii State Department of Education (DoE) Web site for more information at http://doe.k12.hi.us, then click on the Military Families link, or call (808) 586-3230.

Since most schools don't release official permanent student records until requested by the new school, parents should hand-carry copies of report cards, promotion certificates, and other materials that might be helpful in expediting the enrollment and placement of students in proper courses. If your child is entering kindergarten or first grade, you must present a birth or baptismal certificate to verify birth dates.

School bus service is partially subsidized by the state and generally available to students living beyond a one-mile radius from the school. Eligible families may elect to participate, and cost varies from annual to monthly payments. Please visit your school for bus application forms, schedules and routes. The city-operated carrier, called "The Bus," is available to all students (to age 18) for $1 a ride, and monthly passes are available for $20.

Hawaii is the only location in the world with a dedicated position for a SLO from each service, plus the Coast Guard. SLOs serve as the link between the military communities and Hawaii public schools. For assistance regarding your transition to Hawaii and educational issues, please contact your SLO.