Aloha nō e ka ʻohana o Kamehameha,  

We understand that you may be hearing about the Maui fires mediation and settlement from various sources. Soon we will offer a more in-depth sharing of information. However, we want to share what we can at this time. 

Among the many facets of our efforts to be strong contributors in Lahaina, we have recently been involved in mediation to address the legal claims arising from the August 2023 tragedy. We have agreed to participate in a global settlement to resolve all claims related to those fires, which otherwise would have posed an unprecedented threat to Ke Aliʻi Pauahi’s trust and our mission to educate Native Hawaiian haumāna in perpetuity.   

‌The total settlement amount is about $4 billion. As a step toward closure and healing, Kamehameha Schools has agreed to contribute, over time, a portion of the total settlement. Our consent to the settlement assumes a final binding agreement can be reached, and that KS receives approvals from the State Probate Court, the State Attorney General, and the Internal Revenue Service. The reviews by these entities will ensure that Ke Ali‘i Pauahi’s trust dollars are spent appropriately. Our plans to request such approvals will occur following ongoing discussions with the state of Hawaiʻi and Maui County focusing on restoring Lahaina in keeping with the community’s vision for its renewal. We are encouraged by these discussions and are inspired by the vision of our collective actions providing vital and lasting support to ensure Lahaina’s vibrancy for this and future generations. 

‌We will provide more information soon. Until then, we hope you are assured by the fact that the Board of Trustees and I have deeply considered many options, have leaned heavily on the guidance of Ke Akua, and feel certain that we have chosen a pathway that will best support Lahaina’s restoration and Kamehameha Schools’ legacy of education. 

Me ke aloha pumehana, 

‌Jack Wong 
Kamehameha Schools CEO

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ceo message,lahaina

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Kaipuolono Article, Themes, Leadership, KS Organization, KS Announcements

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