Hawaii's population is aging at two and a half times the national average. That's why State Health Department officials say it's crucial to have the appropriate resources ready.And there's a state project in the works to build a brand new nursing facility.

The facility would accommodate as many as 200 patients, and would also serve as a training ground for university students, and Health Department workers.

But the project is being met with some opposition.

Kanu o ka ‘Âina New Century public charter school on the Big Island has received accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges for its K-12 program.

The WASC accreditation, the first for a Hawaiian-focused charter school, is effective for six years, a news release said.

“This is validation of the quality of education at Kanu, which is at once culturally-driven and academically rigorous and prepares students to walk comfortably in multiple worlds,” said school administrator Pat Bergin.