Hawaii Senate honors top teams of 2025 LifeSmarts Consumer Education Competition

The Hawaii Senate convened on March 21, 2025, to celebrate Education Week and recognize outstanding achievements among local students. The session highlighted the accomplishments of various schools in the annual LifeSmarts Consumer Education competition, which tests students on essential life skills such as personal finance, health, and consumer rights.

Senator Kidani opened the session by congratulating the Iolani School team for their first-place victory in the competition. The team, represented by Jeremy Choi, showcased their knowledge and skills at the statewide finals held at the Neil Blaisdell Center in Honolulu. Senator Chang also acknowledged Kalani High School, which secured second place, and Waipahu High School, which earned third and fourth places, emphasizing the dedication and hard work of all participating students.

In addition to the competition winners, the Senate recognized Wilson Chao, a senior from Maui High School and a youth delegate, for his leadership in student advocacy and community engagement. His efforts in promoting youth mental health and environmental sustainability were commended, illustrating the impact of young leaders in shaping their communities.

As the session concluded, Senate Vice President Kidani expressed gratitude to all those involved in making Education Week a success, including staff, parents, and community partners. The recognition of these students not only celebrates their achievements but also reinforces the importance of education and civic engagement in Hawaii.

The meeting underscored the Senate's commitment to supporting educational initiatives and fostering a culture of recognition for student accomplishments, which ultimately benefits the broader community.