Maui Employee Apparently Subject of DOE Investigation

By Wendy Osher

An investigation is being conducted by the Hawai’i Department of Education into allegations that have surfaced against an island employee, Maui Now has learned.

DOE Director of Communications Donalyn Dela Cruz confirmed today that there is an investigation underway, but said details, including circumstances and identity of any individuals involved, are considered confidential at this time.

While authorities declined comment on the case, circumstances surrounding the allegations were contained in a letter obtained by Maui Now.

The document appeared to originate from the Department of Education’s Civil Rights Compliance Office.

According to the state Department of Education website, the mission of the Civil Rights Compliance Office is to “address discrimination in the department, and to promote equal opportunity in educational programs and activities for students and equal opportunity in employment for applicants and employees.”

The letter indicated that a report would be presented to H.P. Baldwin High School Principal Catherine Kilborn upon conclusion of the investigation.

Kilborn declined comment today, saying she could not confirm or deny the allegations.

“Investigations are considered confidential in nature,” she said, adding that the way they are handled depends on the nature of the complaint.

BHS Athletic Director Kahai Shishido, meantime, also declined comment in a phone interview today that sought information on the status of department employees.  He referred inquiries to the school principal.

Officials at the Maui District DOE office also declined comment, and referred inquiries to the DOE’s Civil Rights Compliance Office.

According to the contents of the letter, DOE officials indicated that “the investigation report may be used for subsequent actions that may have to be taken against a DOE employee.”

Lt. Jayson Rego of the Maui Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division said there is presently no MPD investigation and the department has not received a complaint regarding the situation; however, the department did receive at least one other media inquiry into the matter.