On July 7, 2025, the Hawaii State Legislature passed a new education law aimed at improving student success and closing the achievement gap among schools across the state. The legislation, known as the Student Success Act, focuses on providing additional resources and support for students in underperforming schools, as well as increasing transparency and accountability in the education system.One of the key components of the Student Success Act is the establishment of a new funding formula that will allocate resources to schools based on student need and performance. This formula takes into account factors such as student demographics, academic achievement, and other indicators of success. By providing additional resources to schools that need it most, lawmakers hope to level the playing field and ensure that all students have access to a high-quality education.Additionally, the Student Success Act includes measures to increase the number of qualified teachers in Hawaii schools. The legislation provides funding for teacher recruitment and retention programs, as well as incentives for educators to work in high-need schools. By attracting and retaining talented teachers, lawmakers hope to improve overall student achievement and create a more supportive learning environment for students.In order to increase transparency and accountability in the education system, the Student Success Act also includes provisions for regular academic assessments and evaluations of school performance. Schools will be required to report on their progress towards meeting academic goals, and the Department of Education will be tasked with monitoring and supporting schools that are struggling to meet these goals.Overall, the Student Success Act represents a comprehensive effort to improve education outcomes for all students in Hawaii. Lawmakers hope that by addressing the root causes of underperformance and providing targeted support to schools in need, they can help students succeed academically and prepare them for future success in college and career. The legislation is set to go into effect at the start of the next school year, and educators and policymakers are already hard at work implementing its provisions to ensure a brighter future for Hawaii's students.