An Investigation of Parental Perceptions of Head Start Objectives in the Kalihi-Palama District

Abstract

Education has always been foremost on the minds of Americans. Particularly since the Sputnik incident in 1967, more parents have been turning a wary eye towards the kind of instruction their children receive in their classrooms. Appraisal of content as well as objectives is now being increasingly conducted on both formal and informal levels. During the past few years, the concern of parents has become apparent in one particular grouping which are those in so-called “disadvantaged areas." Hawaii's population is by no means an exception. More residents, especially in the Kalihi-Palama district, have been voicing their ideas on matters which directly affect them. They desire establishment of channels in which their demands can be recorded and seriously considered. Their feelings and ideas on the system as it exists were made apparent to the writer in her interaction with some of the residents in the Kalihi-Palama community. It was heartening to note the enthusiasm and sincerity underlying their opinions.