HONOLULU (HI Now) - Hawaiʻi is facing a growing teacher shortage, and the solution might be closer than you think. The Hoapili Teacher Pathways Program through the University of Hawaiʻi is on a mission to grow homegrown, local teachers right here in the islands, and the best part? It is completely tuition free.
The program was designed with real life in mind. Whether you are a working adult, a parent, a recent high school grad, or someone looking to change careers, Hoapili meets you where you are. Courses are offered online and scheduled during evening hours so you can keep your job while working toward your teaching license. You can go at your own pace, choosing to enroll part time or full time depending on what works for your life.
Hoapili connects students across all seven University of Hawaiʻi community colleges statewide into a supported pathway toward a four-year degree and full teaching licensure. The program is primarily focused on elementary education, but pathways also exist for English education and Hawaiian language education, making it a powerful option for those who want to teach in Hawaiian language immersion programs, DOE schools, or charter schools across the state.
The goal is simple but powerful: keep great teachers in Hawaiʻi. By removing financial and geographic barriers, Hoapili is making it possible for more people from every corner of the state to answer the call to teach. No prior experience is required. Just a dream and a willingness to show up for Hawaiʻi’s keiki.
Ready to take the first step? Visit UHKumu.org to fill out an interest form and someone from the program will reach out to guide you on your personal pathway to becoming a licensed teacher in Hawaiʻi.
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