Unanimous council resolution expresses solidarity with Kamehameha Schools amid legal challenge
Summary
The Maui County Council unanimously adopted Resolution 25‑205 expressing support for Kamehameha Schools and recognizing its legacy; councilmembers read and discussed a multi‑page resolution and multiple students and alumni were mentioned during public remarks.
The Maui County Council on Nov. 7 unanimously adopted Resolution 25‑205, which expresses the council’s solidarity with Kamehameha Schools as it defends its admissions policy and the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop.
Member Keani/Keoni Rollins Fernandez read the multi‑page resolution in full, tracing Kamehameha Schools’ founding and mission and noting the school’s educational presence across Maui County, including the Pukalani campus and preschool programs on Molokai and Lāna‘i. The resolution cites a recent lawsuit filed on Oct. 20, 2025, by Students for Fair Admissions challenging Kamehameha Schools’ admissions policy and states the schools have pledged to vigorously defend the policy.
Multiple council members spoke in support, and members noted the role Kamehameha Schools programs and scholarships play in rural communities and in recovery work following the Maui wildfires. Council discussion included recognition of student testimony earlier in the meeting and personal remembrances of the school’s community contributions.
Why it matters: The resolution is a formal expression of the County Council’s support for a private, longstanding educational institution that serves Native Hawaiian students and broader community programs; it does not alter legal proceedings but transmits the council’s position to trustees, state officials and other stakeholders.
The vote was 8‑0 in favor.
