In the wake of the August 2023 Lahaina wildfire, the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education (HIDOE), in collaboration with MKThink, has been making steady progress in rebuilding King Kamehameha III Elementary School. Guided by a commitment to resilience and community-centered design, this project aims to create a culturally significant and future-ready learning environment.
See MKThink’s contribution to building the temporary King Kamehameha III Elementary campus in just 95 days.Â
Key Project Developments
Since the project’s launch, MKThink has worked closely with HIDOE to evaluate potential sites for the new campus. Initially, three options—Front Street, Pulelehua, and Kaʻanapali—were under consideration. However, environmental and infrastructure concerns prompted a shift in focus. A fourth site in Kuʻia was introduced in late 2024, broadening the scope of possibilities and inviting new discussions.
Community input has been a cornerstone of this process. To date, over 485 community members have shared feedback on site selection, emphasizing cultural significance, environmental sustainability, and cost implications. This input has played a critical role in shaping the project, ensuring that the final decision reflects the priorities and values of the Lahaina community.
MKThink’s Role
MKThink has been instrumental in facilitating this community-driven approach. By employing spatial intelligence and data-driven analysis, the team has provided HIDOE with clear insights into the strengths and challenges of each potential site. These efforts ensure that decisions are well-informed and aligned with the community’s needs and long-term educational goals.
In addition to technical expertise, MKThink has acted as a bridge between stakeholders, fostering collaboration and transparency throughout the process. This partnership demonstrates how thoughtful design and engagement can lead to meaningful progress in the face of complex challenges.
Looking Ahead
While no site has been finalized, HIDOE has requested capital improvement funds in its 2025-27 budget to support the rebuilding effort. Governor Green’s executive budget also backs this initiative, reflecting the state’s commitment to Lahaina’s recovery and educational future.
As this project advances, MKThink remains dedicated to supporting HIDOE and the Lahaina community. Together, we are working toward a vision of resilience, cultural preservation, and academic excellence to serve future generations.
Stay tuned for further updates on King Kamehameha III Elementary School here.Â
Does your school district need support creating a data-informed master plan to best serve your students and the broader community? Contact us here to see how MKThink can help.
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