July 16, 2003
Contributed by Thomas Yoshida
The court response notes that the admissions preference policy exists to fulfill Kamehameha Schools' mission, which is to create educational opportunities to improve the capability and well-being of people of Hawaiian ancestry.
The filing states: "KS' mission is inspired by, among other things, the deprivations suffered by Hawaiians both prior and subsequent to the involuntary loss of their right of self-governance in 1893. Today, as in the past, native Hawaiian children face educational at-risk factors disproportionately compared to non-Hawaiian children. Through its educational programs, KS seeks to address these needs."
"We have said in the past that Kamehameha Schools believes that its admissions policy is consistent with applicable law," said Kamehameha Schools Board of Trustees Chair Constance Lau, speaking on behalf of the board. "We will vigorously defend the policy and we are confident that we will prevail."
Kamehameha Schools is a statewide educational system founded and endowed by the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. Nearly 4,900 students of Hawaiian ancestry are currently enrolled in K-12 campuses on three islands and at more than 30 preschool sites statewide. More than 12,000 additional learners are served each year through a range of other Kamehameha Schools' outreach programs, community collaborations and financial aid opportunities in Hawai'i and across the continental United States.
Kamehameha Schools' Court Response - Adobe PDF (493K)
Kamehameha Schools’ policy is to give preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry to the extent permitted by law.
