Evaluating School Climate Trends in Hawai`i – COVID-19 Pandemic and Return to In-Person Instruction

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Sunday 1:45 pm
  In Poster Session: Crisis Leadership and the Return to In-Person Schooling

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the way in which students, families, and educators interacted within their environment. This study examines longitudinal patterns in school climate data collected by the Hawai’i Department of Education (HIDOE) from 2018-2019 to 2022-2023, utilizing Multilevel Growth Models to identify meaningful changes and explore community- and school-level factors to support ongoing initiatives to improve school conditions. Findings revealed positive trends in parental involvement and satisfaction upon return to in-person learning. Income status and student-to-teacher ratios emerged as influential contextual factors. These insights can inform state policymakers and educational leaders by highlighting trends that guide strategic decision and support targeted interventions for school improvement.

Authors

• Kiley Oeda, University of Hawaii - Manoa

• Min Liu, Baylor University

• Mark Murphy, University of Hawai‘i at Manoa