GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $37,000 FOR IMPROVEMENTS AT MAUNALOA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ON MOLOKA`I

For Immediate Release:  May 10, 2005

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $37,000 for accessibility improvements to building A at Maunaloa Elementary School on Moloka`i to allow physically challenged students to attend the school.

Maunaloa School is one of four K-6 rural elementary schools located on the island of Moloka`i.  Because Maunaloa Elementary School does not have the appropriate facilities to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines, a physically challenged child who resides in Maunaloa who wishes to attend the school, currently has to commute to another school farther away.

“This project is very important, as it will allow Maunaloa Elementary School to open its doors and welcome all children, regardless of physical disabilities,” said Governor Lingle. 

The total project cost is $37,000 and is expected to be completed by April 2006.

Lt. Governor James R. “Duke” Aiona, Jr. visited the school today to present a ceremonial check to Principal Joe Yamamoto.  While on Moloka`i, the Lt. Governor also visited fifth graders at Kaunakakai Elementary School to conduct a Teach-In, a national program to educate youngsters, before they become teens, about the dangers of drinking alcohol.  He also visited Moloka`i Intermediate School to observe the UPLINK after-school program, which focuses on providing teen pregnancy prevention services and developing leadership skills within students, and also offers recreational activities such as art, music, dance, modeling, cooking and computer training.

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For more information, contact:
Russ Saito  
State Comptroller – DAGS  
Phone: 586-0400

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone:  586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: 586-0043