Advancing civic learning across Hawaiʻi
The purpose of the PACE Commission is “to promote and advance civic education for students and citizens throughout Hawaiʻi,” as established by Rule 23 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of the State of Hawaiʻi.
Vision & what we do
Quick overviewVision
The vision of the PACE Commission is to create, implement, and amplify sustainable programs, resources, and practices that improve place-based, constitutionally informed, and culturally sensitive civic education and engagement in Hawaiʻi schools and communities.
How we pursue it
- Provide leadership and initiatives to increase civic education in schools and the community.
- Provide educational resources for the public about the importance of civic education.
- Maximize resources through collaboration and coordination among stakeholders.
- Encourage leaders to expand civic education across Hawaiʻi.
- Reduce barriers to civic education and increase pro bono contributions by Hawaiʻi attorneys.
Guiding manaʻo
“A‘ohe hana nui ke alu ‘ia.”
No task is too big when done together by all.
“I ulu no ka lāla i ke kumu.”
The branches grow because of the trunk — without our ancestors we would not be here.
History
How PACE beganA call to strengthen civic understanding
Former Chief Justice Ronald T.Y. Moon emphasized the responsibility of Hawaiʻi’s legal community to improve public knowledge of government and participation in it.
Recommendations for long-term civic infrastructure
AJS issued recommendations, including creating a Hawaiʻi Institute for Civics Education (HICE), which did not materialize.
Listening statewide and researching models
The Judicial Administration Committee met with groups involved in civic education across Hawaiʻi and surveyed other states’ efforts to identify the best long-term structure.
PACE is established by Supreme Court rule
After public comment, the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court adopted Rule 23 on January 7, 2021, establishing PACE to promote and advance civic education statewide.
Progress
Annual reports
Want to partner with PACE?
If you’re an educator, school, or community partner, we’ll help you find the best way to collaborate.