Dear friends and neighbors,

On March 12, as part of the national Civic Learning Week, we will gather in the State House to celebrate the exceptional contributions of civic educators, including Jessica A. dos Santos, lifelong resident of Kahuku and dedicated advocate for her community. She is being honored as one of five outstanding state educators by the PACE Commission and the Hawai‘i State House, a recognition that reflects her steadfast commitment to education and civic engagement in Hawai‘i.

Jessica’s 17-year career as an educator has been defined by her passion for fostering critical thinking and active citizenship among her students. As a Social Studies teacher at Hawai‘i Technology Academy (HTA) since 2012, she has integrated blended learning strategies, educational technology, and inquiry-based approaches to ensure that students receive a highquality, student-centered education. Her curriculum not only strengthens academic skills but also empowers students to become engaged members of their communities.

Before joining HTA, Jessica taught at Kalaheo High School, where she played a key role in curriculum enhancement and student development. Her commitment to public education extends far beyond the classroom—she has spent over 18 years involved in community, environmental, and social justice advocacy, demonstrating her deep dedication to improving the lives of those around her. With a Master of Arts in Secondary Education from the University of Phoenix Hawai‘i and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Women’s Studies from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Jessica has devoted her life to equipping young people with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate an everchanging world.

Her leadership, passion, and unwavering dedication to civic education are a testament to the power of community-driven teaching. As a proud member of the Kahuku community, Jessica dos Santos has not only shaped the minds of her students but has also strengthened the fabric of the place she calls home. We are grateful for her service and look forward to seeing her continued impact on future generations. Legislative Salaries and the Current Economic Reality.

At a time when federal funding is uncertain and the state faces a significant budget shortfall due to the passage of HB 2404—an income tax cut that disproportionately benefits the wealthy—it is important for legislators to carefully consider any salary increases.

The State Salary Commission has recommended raising legislative salaries to $121,000, but given the current financial challenges facing our state, a more balanced approach is needed.

The State Salary Commission, which independently reviews and recommends compensation for state officials, considers various economic factors in its process. However, as we work to address pressing budgetary concerns, we believe that legislative salaries should be structured in a way that reflects the economic realities of our constituents.

That is why I, along with several colleagues, have proposed an alternative approach. In our letter to Chair Hanabusa and the Commission, we recommend that legislators’ base salaries be set at 100% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for Honolulu for a single earner—$84,050 based on 2024 guidelines. Additionally, we suggest that annual adjustments be tied to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Consumers (CPI-U), ensuring that salaries remain fair and sustainable over time.

This approach aligns legislative compensation with the principle that one job should be enough to live, work, and raise a family in Hawai‘i. It also reinforces the need for policies that support fair wages, strengthen local businesses, and promote a diversified economy that benefits all residents.

As we navigate difficult economic decisions, it is crucial that we lead by example. By adopting a salary structure that reflects the financial realities faced by working families, we can demonstrate our commitment to responsible governance while ensuring that public service remains accessible to all who wish to serve.

Mahalo for allowing me the privilege of serving as your representative.