HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0061.004 2024-2026From: AononKubo
Sent: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 2:55 PM
To: oounci|testinnony@hawaiigov
Subject: [EXTERNAL] re: testimony in support ofResolution 42-25
Aloha Chair Inaba, Vice Chair Onishiand members ofthe council:
_
My name is Aaron Kubo. I am an eighth -grade social studies teacher at Hilo Intermediate School in the
Hi|o-VVaiakeaComplex area onHaxvai`iIsland. |arnsubmitting testimony instrong support ofResolution
/42'25\ urging the State ofHavvai'i to implement a Universal Free School K4e8|s Program.
This program will have a profound and positive impact on our keiki by:
° Addressing Food Insecurity:
o Food insecurity iS8significant challenge facing many Vfour students,
hindering their ability tofocus and learn effectively.
o A universal program ensures all students have access to nutritious meals,
regardless O[their fannily'sfinancial situation, eliminating the stigma
associated with free orreduced-price lunch programs.
° Promoting Nutritional Equity:
o Providing all students with access to healthy, balanced meals can combat
diet -related health issues like childhood obesity and improve overall
student health and vvd|-being.
o This pr0g[8rn will contribute toa more equitable and just education system
where all students have the opportunity tothrive.
° Supporting Local Agriculture:
o Prioritizing the procurement pflocally grown and produced foods will
strengthen our local food systems, support our farmers and ranchers, and
boost our rural economies.
o This will create a more sustainable and resilient food system for Havvai'i.
° Enhancing Student Success:
o Studies have shown that students with access to nutritious meals perform
better academically.
o By providing all students with the fuel they need to learn, we are investing
in their future success.
Hilo Intermediate isaTitle One school where aoupenm joritvofstudentsqua|iDesfurfreeandreduoed
meals. Often the only meals they receive are etour school. This resolution isacritical step towards
ensuring that all of our keiki have the opportunity to reach their full potential. | urge this committee to
support this resolution and move it forward.
Respectfully,
Aaron KubV, Hilo-VVaiakeaCurnp|ex Haxvai`i|Sland