Parents, teachers and students gathered at the state Capitol this morning — the ninth furlough Friday and the 98th day since furloughs began — to protest canceled school days.

The event was coordinated by Hawaii Education Matters, Save Our Schools, Kanu Hawaii and The Learning Coalition.
The rally involved sign-waving on Beretania Street and a drive-through bake sale intended to raise funds for teachers who want to return to the classroom. Author Wally Amos was to read to children in attendance.
Organizers say a group of children will deliver cookies to Gov. Linda Lingle’s office, along with a plea to end furloughs.