2007 Policy Briefs

from Senator Norman Sakamoto

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT – Updated 8/22/07
Concerned with America losing its competitive advantage to other nations, US Congress and President George W. Bush in 2002 passed into law the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB).

FIXING OUR SCHOOLS – Updated 7/25/2007
On July 22, 2007 the Honolulu Star-Bulletin reported that the funds to repair schools are being held by the Governor. Our call to release these funds has been echoed in a subsequent Star Bulletin editorial.

As championed in the past, R&M efforts need to continue without disruption. If R&M becomes a low priority, when will the backlog be reduced? Fixing our schools needs to remain a high priority.

UH BOARD OF REGENTS CANDIDATE ADVISORY COUNCIL 7/24/07
Historically, members of the University of Hawaii (UH) Board of Regents have been appointed by the Governor.  However, this longstanding and widespread practice has come under serious questioning.

SUPPORTING OUR MILITARY 2/09/07
The military is a significant part of our island community.  Recognizing the important service and the sacrifices they are making for their country, the Hawaii Legislature passed measures to honor their sacrifices and to support them and their families during their stay in Hawaii.  We are proud to have had the opportunity to serve as chair of the Senate Committee on Education and Military Affairs from 2005 to 2006. 

SUPPORTING OUR MILITARY'S CHILDREN 2/09/07
Many military personnel come to Hawaii with their wives, husbands, and children.  United States Senator Daniel K. Inouye noted that we ought to see the military children as our children.  The Hawaii Legislature has taken steps to ensure a supportive environment for their family and a quality learning environment for their children.