Boosting early learning connections on Kauaʻi through KS Kaiāulu

Aug. 28, 2024

With a master’s degree in quantitative economics, Alanna Bauman uses her passion for analyzing data to help tackle the complex issue of early learning on Kauaʻi.

“My background really helps support the data-driven approach, applying supply and demand models to early learning expansion to understand what and where we need to expand,” explained Bauman. “We’re able to create strategic recommendations for early learning expansion.”

Kauaʻi County is the only one in Hawaiʻi that does not have an early childhood coordinator position within a county department. To fill that gap, Bauman took on the role of early childhood education system coordinator at the nonprofit organization Kauaʻi Planning and Action Alliance two years ago through a pilot project in partnership with Kamehameha Schools Kaiāulu.

“I’ve engaged with a collaborative network of early learning stakeholders, including county and state agencies and nonprofit partners, to address high-need areas for the early childhood education sector. Some of those areas include professional development, supporting the workforce and increasing access to programming,” said Bauman. “Access to early childhood education opportunities is an economic driver in a community. When parents have access to affordable childcare, they’re able to go back to work and support their families.”

Alanna Bauman joined the state of Hawaiʻi’s Early Learning Board this past spring.

The number of 3- and 4-year-olds enrolled in school on Kauaʻi rose to nearly 60% in 2022, according to the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey 5-Year estimate. That’s compared to 46% that year for both the state of Hawaiʻi and the United States.

“Instilling a lifelong love of learning in our keiki is key to cultivating future ʻōiwi leaders and creating resiliency in our community,” said Kaliko Mokuahi, Kamehameha Schools’ Kauaʻi and Niʻihau community strategist. “Kamehameha Schools has been working alongside the state and other partners toward the goal of ensuring universal access to preschool, especially in rural areas like Kauaʻi.”

Kamehameha Schools joined a collective effort to put on the Kauaʻi Early Childhood Education Conference this past spring, which drew more than 100 participants from across the pae ʻāina. The theme of the conference was "E ala! E alu! E kuilima! – Up! Together! Join Hands!" This ʻōlelo noʻeau is a call to come together to tackle a given task.

“The early learning sector plays a critical role in our economy by supporting working families and building a strong foundation for learning and development in our keiki,” said Bauman. “Kauaʻi is a very special place. I love this community, and I love the work that I do.”

To learn more about KS Kaiāulu and our partnerships: https://www.kaiaulu.ksbe.edu/partnerships

Participants at the 2024 Kauaʻi Early Childhood Education Conference learned about information and resources available from a variety of organizations.