dren working with their parent(s) as their first teacher. The parent is provided with a set of carefully developed materials, curriculum, and books designed to strengthen their child’s cognitive skills, early literacy skills, social/emotional, and physical development. HIPPY is a parent involvement and school readiness program. HIPPY gives parents the tools, skills, and confidence they need to engage with their children in educational activities. The curriculum is scripted to help parents deliver the lessons to their children with confidence. HIPPY meets in various communities with a trained HIPPY Parent Educator 1 day a week for an hour. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT- THE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM In 2021, KOKA became the State’s only Department of Labor-approved Apprenticeship Program for individuals interested in pursuing an education in early childhood and becoming a qualified preschool teacher and early childhood provider. A federally approved program, the Apprenticeship Program pays for individuals to work, pays for them to go to school, and pays their tuition for school. For more information, send a message to apprenticeship@koka.org. THE NEXT CHAPTER FOR HAWAII’S KEIKI As the state pushes toward a broader goal of universal preschool access— such as the Ready Keiki initiative aimed at supporting 3- and 4-yearolds—the foundational work established by organizations like KOKA becomes even more critical. With three decades of dedication, KOKA continues to advocate for culturally responsive care and early learning resources for all Native Hawaiian and local families. To learn more, enroll your keiki, or volunteer, check out www.koka.org OR send an email to intake@koka.org. 126 Hawaii Parent July/August 2026
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