Aloha my name is Melody Villamor. I serve as the Vice President of the board of directors at E Malama I Na Keiki O Lanai. I want to say that as a former parent who received funding it was so helpful and needed, i was thankfully able to receive funding all the years my kids were in preschool and hopefully in the years to come as i have 2 more young keiki. As a board member I’m so thankful for all of the funding we are able to get for the families and children who need it. The funding from the County Grant subsidy for Early Childhood is such a huge resource in offering tuition assistance towards the families in need. Especially for those who are unable to qualify for other programs, this grant helps families keep their keiki enrolled in preschool. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my written testimony for the Lana'i District Budget meeting taking place today, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM.
I am here today to advocate on behalf of Lana'i families who rely on financial assistance and to respectfully urge the continued support of County funds for our future leaders. Investing in early childhood education has proven long-term benefits for the entire community, including improved educational outcomes and greater economic stability for working families. With your ongoing support, E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i can continue to provide a strong and equitable foundation for the children of Lana'i—a foundation they truly deserve.
Aloha my name is brenda membrado and this is my written testimony in support of E Malama I Na Keiki O Lanai Preschool to be included in the Lanai District Budget which meeting is being held on April 8, 2025 at 6:00pm. E Malama I Na Keiki O Lanai Preschool has been around for so many years because its services is very much needed by our community. With the support from Maui County as well as other subsidies it relieves the financial burden for families know that they will be able to receive child care for their children which is very hard to find let alone afford. But not just any child care, one that is well maintained and licensed, with caring and trust worthy staff. Mahalo for your time!
My name is Deana Ganer-Eskaran. I am a volunteer board member of E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i on the island of Lana'i. I would like to take this opportunity to share my written testimony intended for the Lana'i District Budget meeting scheduled for today, Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 6:00pm.
E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i preschool program has been serving our island community for over 40 years offering a safe, nurturing environment that prioritized school readiness, social development, and inclusion. The preschool and its staff work closely with many families on Lana'i, many of whom face economic barriers and strive to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial hardship.
County Grant subsidy for Early Childhood has been a significant source of subsidy for families in need of tuition assistance for our preschool. For many families who do not qualify for DHS, Preschool Open Doors, or other private subsidy programs, the County of Maui funds has been a great relief for eligible families to be able to afford to keep their children in preschool.
I am here to advocate for Lana'i families in need of financial assistance and kindly voice that County funds continue to support our youngest residents of Lana'i. Investing in a preschool program has long-term benefits for the entire community such as better educational outcomes and increased economic stability for working families. I also believe with your support, E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i can continue to give our youngest residents the strong start they need and deserve.
My name is Deana Ganer-Eskaran, and I serve as a volunteer board member for E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i, located on the beautiful island of Lana'i. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my written testimony for the Lana'i District Budget meeting taking place today, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM.
For over 40 years, E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i has been a cornerstone of our community, providing a safe, nurturing environment that emphasizes school readiness, social development, and inclusion. The preschool works hand in hand with many families across Lana'i, ensuring that no child is left behind due to financial hardship, even as many of these families face significant economic challenges.
The County Grant subsidy for Early Childhood has been a vital resource, offering tuition assistance to families in need. For those who do not qualify for programs such as DHS, Preschool Open Doors, or other private subsidies, the County of Maui funds have been a lifeline—allowing eligible families to keep their children enrolled in preschool.
I am here today to advocate on behalf of Lana'i families who rely on financial assistance and to respectfully urge the continued support of County funds for our youngest residents. Investing in early childhood education has proven long-term benefits for the entire community, including improved educational outcomes and greater economic stability for working families. With your ongoing support, E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i can continue to provide a strong and equitable foundation for the children of Lana'i—a foundation they truly deserve.
Aloha and good evening County Council Members,
My name is Kahau Siliga. I am the Director and Teacher at E Mālama I Nā Keiki O Lāna`i preschool on the island of Lāna`i. I would like to take this opportunity to share my written testimony intended for the Lāna`i District Budget meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 6:00pm.
Our preschool program has been serving our island community for over 40 years offering a nurturing environment that prioritizes school readiness, social development, and inclusion. We work closely with families, many of whom face economic barriers, and we strive to ensure that no child is turned away because of financial hardship.
County Grant Subsidy for Early Childhood has been a significant source of subsidy for families in need of tuition assistance for our program. Each household is required to submit an application with supporting documents to the Maui County Early Childhood Resource Center. After a complete assessment by the Maui County ECRC, families are notified of the financial need they are eligible for. Funds are sourced directly to our preschool for the purpose of aiding each family’s monthly tuition payment. For many families who are not eligible for subsidy from DHS, Preschool Open Doors or other private subsidy organizations, the County of Maui funds has been a great relief for eligible families to be able afford keeping their children in preschool.
For this 2025 fiscal year, we have been able to serve twenty children to date. Our current enrollment is seventeen children. Eleven of the twenty families served received subsidy assistance. 55% of these families received their assistance from the County of Maui. The other 45% received assistance from other subsidy programs such as the stateʻs Child Care Subsidy program, the Preschool Open Doors program, and Pauahi Keiki Scholars. Our tuition fee is $995.00 per month which totals $10,945.00 for a program year.
I am here to advocate for Lāna’i families in need of financial assistance and kindly voice that County funds continue to support our youngest Lana`i residents. Investing in a preschool program has long-term benefits for the entire community-such as better educational outcomes, and increased economic stability for working families. We're proud of the work we do at E Mālama I Nā Keiki O Lāna`i preschool, and with your support, we can continue to give our youngest learners the strong start they deserve.
Warm Regards,
Kahau Siliga
--
Kahau Siliga
Program Director
E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana`i
P.O. Box 630327
751 Fraser Avenue
Lana`i City, HI 96763
(808) 565-6266
emalamainakeikiolanai@gmail.com
Denise “Ola” Ropa
Lana’i City, HI, 96763
04/07/2025
To: County.clerk@mauicounty.us
Subject: Support for Continued Funding for STEM Initiatives
Dear Members of the Maui Economic Development Board,
I am writing in strong support of the continued funding for the incredible programs offered by the Maui Economic Development Board, Inc., especially those that engage and inspire the young women of Lana'i High and Elementary School to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) opportunities. The programs provided by your organization have made a profound impact on our rural students, and it is essential that this vital support continues for the benefit of future generations.
As you may know, rural students often face unique barriers when it comes to access to STEM education and career opportunities. By supporting events such as Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, the Maui Economic Development Board has been instrumental in broadening the horizons of young women on Lana'i, showing them that they, too, can pursue careers in these dynamic and essential fields.
We are confident that continued funding for these programs will further empower our students to dream big, pursue STEM education, and make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond. The impact of these opportunities is immeasurable, and we are incredibly grateful for the work that the Maui Economic Development Board does to create these pathways for our youth.
Thank you for considering this crucial request for continued funding. We wholeheartedly support the work of the Maui Economic Development Board, Inc., and look forward to the positive outcomes it will continue to bring to our young women in Lana'i.
Sincerely,
Denise “Ola” Ropa
Grandmother of Saadei Ropa
Denise “Ola” Ropa
Lana’i City, HI, 96763
04/07/2025
To: County.clerk@mauicounty.us
Subject: Support for Continued Funding for STEM Initiatives
Dear Members of the Maui Economic Development Board,
I am writing in strong support of the continued funding for the incredible programs offered by the Maui Economic Development Board, Inc., especially those that engage and inspire the young women of Lana'i High and Elementary School to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) opportunities. The programs provided by your organization have made a profound impact on our rural students, and it is essential that this vital support continues for the benefit of future generations.
As you may know, rural students often face unique barriers when it comes to access to STEM education and career opportunities. By supporting events such as Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, the Maui Economic Development Board has been instrumental in broadening the horizons of young women on Lana'i, showing them that they, too, can pursue careers in these dynamic and essential fields.
We are confident that continued funding for these programs will further empower our students to dream big, pursue STEM education, and make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond. The impact of these opportunities is immeasurable, and we are incredibly grateful for the work that the Maui Economic Development Board does to create these pathways for our youth.
Thank you for considering this crucial request for continued funding. We wholeheartedly support the work of the Maui Economic Development Board, Inc., and look forward to the positive outcomes it will continue to bring to our young women in Lana'i.
Sincerely,
Denise “Ola” Ropa
Grandmother of Saadei Ropa
Aloha, I am a parent and an educator on the island of Lāna`i . Our ohana & school were introduced to women and technology and STEMworks when our twin daughters were in middle school in 2012. Ever since then, students on our small rural island have been able to learn, become excited, and stay motivated by attending day workshops , overnight workshops , and also the STEM Conference in Maui and O`ahu. Many of the industry professionals came to Lāna’i to do workshops & career days for our students and our staff because of the funding from STEMworks/ MEDB . Many of our staff was able to be trained in various STEM content through MEDB and STEMworks on Lāna’i , and even the continental US which in turn was shared with our students and staff. STEMworks and MEDB has been an amazing resource for our Lana`i students and K-12 school for over 13 years. I support funding to continue for these amazing programs for our rural Lāna’i community. Those that benefit: elementary, middle & high school students, educators, and various other community members when the mana’o is gained and shared !
Some of the amazing software & projects provided to our Lana`i community include : esri, photoshop, drones, video & PSA skills taught by Maui Waena students & teacher, Aquaponics, female submarine pilot teaching underwater ROV, Stanford University, telescopes, project based leaning, farming, coding, internships, and so much more. Keep funding MEDB & STEMworks!
I am Elena Riel and I am testifying in support of Maui Economic Development Boardʻs Economic Development Grant under the Maui County Office of Economic Development. Through the STEMworks Agriculture Business & Technology Internship Program, I worked on a local farm that is called “Kipuka Lana’i Farm”. The STEMworks program that I took in the summer with Aunty Leah Kanno and Uncle Kai Kanno was an incredible experience. They taught me so many things that were outside of farming that I incorporate in my everyday life! The STEMworks program can help many students discover what they’re passionate about, and even provide them a way to make new friends! I’m so thankful for this program and I hope it continues to inspire younger generations!!
Thank you for taking the time to listen to this testimony,
Elena Riel
Aloha my name is Melody Villamor. I serve as the Vice President of the board of directors at E Malama I Na Keiki O Lanai. I want to say that as a former parent who received funding it was so helpful and needed, i was thankfully able to receive funding all the years my kids were in preschool and hopefully in the years to come as i have 2 more young keiki. As a board member I’m so thankful for all of the funding we are able to get for the families and children who need it. The funding from the County Grant subsidy for Early Childhood is such a huge resource in offering tuition assistance towards the families in need. Especially for those who are unable to qualify for other programs, this grant helps families keep their keiki enrolled in preschool. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my written testimony for the Lana'i District Budget meeting taking place today, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM.
I am here today to advocate on behalf of Lana'i families who rely on financial assistance and to respectfully urge the continued support of County funds for our future leaders. Investing in early childhood education has proven long-term benefits for the entire community, including improved educational outcomes and greater economic stability for working families. With your ongoing support, E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i can continue to provide a strong and equitable foundation for the children of Lana'i—a foundation they truly deserve.
Mahalo,
Melody Villamor
Aloha my name is brenda membrado and this is my written testimony in support of E Malama I Na Keiki O Lanai Preschool to be included in the Lanai District Budget which meeting is being held on April 8, 2025 at 6:00pm. E Malama I Na Keiki O Lanai Preschool has been around for so many years because its services is very much needed by our community. With the support from Maui County as well as other subsidies it relieves the financial burden for families know that they will be able to receive child care for their children which is very hard to find let alone afford. But not just any child care, one that is well maintained and licensed, with caring and trust worthy staff. Mahalo for your time!
Aloha,
My name is Deana Ganer-Eskaran. I am a volunteer board member of E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i on the island of Lana'i. I would like to take this opportunity to share my written testimony intended for the Lana'i District Budget meeting scheduled for today, Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 6:00pm.
E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i preschool program has been serving our island community for over 40 years offering a safe, nurturing environment that prioritized school readiness, social development, and inclusion. The preschool and its staff work closely with many families on Lana'i, many of whom face economic barriers and strive to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial hardship.
County Grant subsidy for Early Childhood has been a significant source of subsidy for families in need of tuition assistance for our preschool. For many families who do not qualify for DHS, Preschool Open Doors, or other private subsidy programs, the County of Maui funds has been a great relief for eligible families to be able to afford to keep their children in preschool.
I am here to advocate for Lana'i families in need of financial assistance and kindly voice that County funds continue to support our youngest residents of Lana'i. Investing in a preschool program has long-term benefits for the entire community such as better educational outcomes and increased economic stability for working families. I also believe with your support, E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i can continue to give our youngest residents the strong start they need and deserve.
Mahalo,
Deana Ganer-Eskaran
Aloha County Council Members,
My name is Deana Ganer-Eskaran, and I serve as a volunteer board member for E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i, located on the beautiful island of Lana'i. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my written testimony for the Lana'i District Budget meeting taking place today, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM.
For over 40 years, E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i has been a cornerstone of our community, providing a safe, nurturing environment that emphasizes school readiness, social development, and inclusion. The preschool works hand in hand with many families across Lana'i, ensuring that no child is left behind due to financial hardship, even as many of these families face significant economic challenges.
The County Grant subsidy for Early Childhood has been a vital resource, offering tuition assistance to families in need. For those who do not qualify for programs such as DHS, Preschool Open Doors, or other private subsidies, the County of Maui funds have been a lifeline—allowing eligible families to keep their children enrolled in preschool.
I am here today to advocate on behalf of Lana'i families who rely on financial assistance and to respectfully urge the continued support of County funds for our youngest residents. Investing in early childhood education has proven long-term benefits for the entire community, including improved educational outcomes and greater economic stability for working families. With your ongoing support, E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana'i can continue to provide a strong and equitable foundation for the children of Lana'i—a foundation they truly deserve.
Mahalo,
Deana Ganer-Eskaran
Aloha and good evening County Council Members,
My name is Kahau Siliga. I am the Director and Teacher at E Mālama I Nā Keiki O Lāna`i preschool on the island of Lāna`i. I would like to take this opportunity to share my written testimony intended for the Lāna`i District Budget meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 6:00pm.
Our preschool program has been serving our island community for over 40 years offering a nurturing environment that prioritizes school readiness, social development, and inclusion. We work closely with families, many of whom face economic barriers, and we strive to ensure that no child is turned away because of financial hardship.
County Grant Subsidy for Early Childhood has been a significant source of subsidy for families in need of tuition assistance for our program. Each household is required to submit an application with supporting documents to the Maui County Early Childhood Resource Center. After a complete assessment by the Maui County ECRC, families are notified of the financial need they are eligible for. Funds are sourced directly to our preschool for the purpose of aiding each family’s monthly tuition payment. For many families who are not eligible for subsidy from DHS, Preschool Open Doors or other private subsidy organizations, the County of Maui funds has been a great relief for eligible families to be able afford keeping their children in preschool.
For this 2025 fiscal year, we have been able to serve twenty children to date. Our current enrollment is seventeen children. Eleven of the twenty families served received subsidy assistance. 55% of these families received their assistance from the County of Maui. The other 45% received assistance from other subsidy programs such as the stateʻs Child Care Subsidy program, the Preschool Open Doors program, and Pauahi Keiki Scholars. Our tuition fee is $995.00 per month which totals $10,945.00 for a program year.
I am here to advocate for Lāna’i families in need of financial assistance and kindly voice that County funds continue to support our youngest Lana`i residents. Investing in a preschool program has long-term benefits for the entire community-such as better educational outcomes, and increased economic stability for working families. We're proud of the work we do at E Mālama I Nā Keiki O Lāna`i preschool, and with your support, we can continue to give our youngest learners the strong start they deserve.
Warm Regards,
Kahau Siliga
--
Kahau Siliga
Program Director
E Malama I Na Keiki O Lana`i
P.O. Box 630327
751 Fraser Avenue
Lana`i City, HI 96763
(808) 565-6266
emalamainakeikiolanai@gmail.com
Denise “Ola” Ropa
Lana’i City, HI, 96763
04/07/2025
To: County.clerk@mauicounty.us
Subject: Support for Continued Funding for STEM Initiatives
Dear Members of the Maui Economic Development Board,
I am writing in strong support of the continued funding for the incredible programs offered by the Maui Economic Development Board, Inc., especially those that engage and inspire the young women of Lana'i High and Elementary School to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) opportunities. The programs provided by your organization have made a profound impact on our rural students, and it is essential that this vital support continues for the benefit of future generations.
As you may know, rural students often face unique barriers when it comes to access to STEM education and career opportunities. By supporting events such as Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, the Maui Economic Development Board has been instrumental in broadening the horizons of young women on Lana'i, showing them that they, too, can pursue careers in these dynamic and essential fields.
We are confident that continued funding for these programs will further empower our students to dream big, pursue STEM education, and make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond. The impact of these opportunities is immeasurable, and we are incredibly grateful for the work that the Maui Economic Development Board does to create these pathways for our youth.
Thank you for considering this crucial request for continued funding. We wholeheartedly support the work of the Maui Economic Development Board, Inc., and look forward to the positive outcomes it will continue to bring to our young women in Lana'i.
Sincerely,
Denise “Ola” Ropa
Grandmother of Saadei Ropa
Denise “Ola” Ropa
Lana’i City, HI, 96763
04/07/2025
To: County.clerk@mauicounty.us
Subject: Support for Continued Funding for STEM Initiatives
Dear Members of the Maui Economic Development Board,
I am writing in strong support of the continued funding for the incredible programs offered by the Maui Economic Development Board, Inc., especially those that engage and inspire the young women of Lana'i High and Elementary School to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) opportunities. The programs provided by your organization have made a profound impact on our rural students, and it is essential that this vital support continues for the benefit of future generations.
As you may know, rural students often face unique barriers when it comes to access to STEM education and career opportunities. By supporting events such as Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, the Maui Economic Development Board has been instrumental in broadening the horizons of young women on Lana'i, showing them that they, too, can pursue careers in these dynamic and essential fields.
We are confident that continued funding for these programs will further empower our students to dream big, pursue STEM education, and make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond. The impact of these opportunities is immeasurable, and we are incredibly grateful for the work that the Maui Economic Development Board does to create these pathways for our youth.
Thank you for considering this crucial request for continued funding. We wholeheartedly support the work of the Maui Economic Development Board, Inc., and look forward to the positive outcomes it will continue to bring to our young women in Lana'i.
Sincerely,
Denise “Ola” Ropa
Grandmother of Saadei Ropa
Aloha, I am a parent and an educator on the island of Lāna`i . Our ohana & school were introduced to women and technology and STEMworks when our twin daughters were in middle school in 2012. Ever since then, students on our small rural island have been able to learn, become excited, and stay motivated by attending day workshops , overnight workshops , and also the STEM Conference in Maui and O`ahu. Many of the industry professionals came to Lāna’i to do workshops & career days for our students and our staff because of the funding from STEMworks/ MEDB . Many of our staff was able to be trained in various STEM content through MEDB and STEMworks on Lāna’i , and even the continental US which in turn was shared with our students and staff. STEMworks and MEDB has been an amazing resource for our Lana`i students and K-12 school for over 13 years. I support funding to continue for these amazing programs for our rural Lāna’i community. Those that benefit: elementary, middle & high school students, educators, and various other community members when the mana’o is gained and shared !
Some of the amazing software & projects provided to our Lana`i community include : esri, photoshop, drones, video & PSA skills taught by Maui Waena students & teacher, Aquaponics, female submarine pilot teaching underwater ROV, Stanford University, telescopes, project based leaning, farming, coding, internships, and so much more. Keep funding MEDB & STEMworks!
Mahalo
Beth Conroy- Humphrey
I am Elena Riel and I am testifying in support of Maui Economic Development Boardʻs Economic Development Grant under the Maui County Office of Economic Development. Through the STEMworks Agriculture Business & Technology Internship Program, I worked on a local farm that is called “Kipuka Lana’i Farm”. The STEMworks program that I took in the summer with Aunty Leah Kanno and Uncle Kai Kanno was an incredible experience. They taught me so many things that were outside of farming that I incorporate in my everyday life! The STEMworks program can help many students discover what they’re passionate about, and even provide them a way to make new friends! I’m so thankful for this program and I hope it continues to inspire younger generations!!
Thank you for taking the time to listen to this testimony,
Elena Riel