The Hawai‘i State Department of Education (HIDOE) is inviting eligible high school students to apply for paid summer internships with schools and offices statewide starting Monday, March 31.
The internship program, coordinated by HIDOE’s Workforce Development Branch, offers in-person opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience, build employability and technical skills, and explore career pathways aligned with their interests. This initiative supports Desired Outcome 1.3.3 of the 2023–29 Strategic Plan: preparing students for success beyond high school in college, careers and community life.
Internships are available in a range of fields, including business management, education, cybersecurity, construction and more.
“Preparing our students to be workforce-ready means giving them real-world experiences that build confidence, skills and a sense of purpose,” Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. “These internships help connect classroom learning to future careers and empower students to take the next step toward their goals.”
To apply, students must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 16 years old;
- Be enrolled as a junior or senior in a HIDOE high school or in a Community School for Adults;
- Be enrolled in a program of study related to the internship (preferred but not required).
“I enjoy being a part of the student’s journey,” said Konawaena High senior Makana Sanders, who is currently serving as an educational assistant intern for first graders at Konawaena Elementary School. “This will help me with my future goals by learning skills like collaboration and cooperation. I can do many things in the future with these skills with any job I have.”
Internship start dates vary depending on the host school or office. Opportunities are available statewide, including placements open to all eligible students as well as school-specific internships limited to students enrolled at the host school.
Applications will be accepted from March 31 through April 11.
View available internship opportunities and apply (see both tabs for full listings).
