Public schools are governed by laws _________ church and state.

The correct choice emphasizes the principle of the separation of church and state, which is a foundational concept in the governance of public schools in the United States, including Hawaii. This principle ensures that public education systems remain neutral in matters of religion, preventing any one religion from influencing educational policies or practices. It helps to maintain an educational environment that is inclusive and respectful of diverse beliefs.

This separation is critical to protecting the rights of students from various religious backgrounds and ensures that public resources, such as schools and educational programs, are not used to promote or endorse any specific religion. By adhering to this principle, public schools can provide a balanced education that respects the rights and beliefs of all students, thereby fostering an atmosphere of tolerance and understanding within the school community.

The other options do not reflect the legal framework governing public education. Connecting would imply a relationship that does not uphold neutrality, supporting suggests an endorsement which contradicts the mandate for secular education, and overseeing does not accurately represent the legal separation that is required.