The Best Private Schools in Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Kailua Kona. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Hawaii Preparatory Academy
Independent School
Hawaii Preparatory Academy is a premier independent school serving the Big Island, including Kailua Kona families, with a reputation for academic excellence and innovative programs. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities such as science centers, arts studios, and athletic complexes. HPA offers a robust curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, sustainability programs, and extensive extracurriculars like sailing, robotics, and performing arts. With highly qualified faculty and a strong track record of college placements, it consistently receives top parent and student reviews.
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Parker School
Independent School
Parker School is a respected independent school in Waimea that serves students from Kailua Kona and across the Big Island, known for its balanced approach to academics and personal growth. The school offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum with strengths in STEM, humanities, and the arts, supported by facilities like science labs, art rooms, and outdoor learning spaces. Extracurricular programs include sports, drama, and community projects, fostering a well-rounded education. High parent satisfaction stems from its committed teachers, inclusive community, and focus on individual student development.
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Makua Lani Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Makua Lani Christian Academy is a highly regarded private school located directly in Kailua Kona, offering a comprehensive K-12 education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and Christian values. The school features modern facilities including science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, and athletic fields. Academic programs are rigorous with a focus on college preparation, and extracurricular activities include robotics, music, sports, and community service. Parent satisfaction is high due to small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a supportive community environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Kailua Kona, Hawaii
What are the primary private school options available in Kailua Kona, Hawaii, and what are their core educational philosophies?
Kailua Kona offers a few distinct private school options, each with a unique approach. **Makua Lani Christian Academy** is a college-preparatory school with a Biblical worldview, serving grades K-12. **Hawaii Preparatory Academy (HPA)**, located in nearby Waimea, is a prominent day and boarding school known for its rigorous academics, robust arts and athletics, and innovative programs like energy lab and marine science. **Parker School**, also in Waimea, is an independent, coeducational college-prep school emphasizing project-based learning and community engagement. For families strictly in Kailua Kona town, Makua Lani is the primary local option, while HPA and Parker involve a commute over the mountain to the Waimea area, which is common for Big Island families seeking specific programs.
How does the cost of private school tuition in Kailua Kona, HI, compare to the state's high cost of living, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition at Kailua Kona area private schools is significant and aligns with Hawaii's high cost of living. For the 2024-2025 school year, annual tuition ranges from approximately $12,000 to $35,000+ depending on the school and grade level. Day student tuition at HPA, for instance, is at the higher end of this spectrum. Importantly, all major schools offer need-based financial aid and scholarships. Makua Lani, HPA, and Parker School have dedicated financial aid programs, and some offer sibling discounts. It is crucial for parents to apply for aid early, as funds are limited. Additionally, Hawaii does not have a state-sponsored tuition assistance program (like vouchers or tax credits), so aid comes directly from the institutions and private scholarships.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Kailua Kona area offer that leverage the Big Island environment?
Private schools here uniquely integrate Hawaii's natural and cultural landscape into their curricula. **Hawaii Preparatory Academy** is renowned for its Energy Lab and marine science programs, allowing students to conduct real-world sustainability research. Many schools incorporate **ʻāina (land)-based learning**, with gardens and outdoor classrooms. **Makua Lani** and others emphasize Hawaiian studies and language. Extracurriculars often include outrigger canoe paddling, ocean sports, hiking, and equestrian programs, taking advantage of the island's diverse ecosystems. This focus on place-based education is a defining feature, preparing students with both global perspectives and deep local knowledge.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Kailua Kona, and how competitive is admission?
The admission process for Kailua Kona area private schools generally begins a full year in advance. Key deadlines for applications are typically in January or February for the following fall semester. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a student visit or interview. For schools like HPA, which draw applicants globally, the process is more competitive, especially for boarding spots. Makua Lani and Parker School also have selective processes based on academic readiness and mission fit. Due to limited seats, especially in specific grade levels, it is highly advised to start the process early, attend open houses (often held in the fall), and ensure all materials are submitted promptly.
For families considering both public and private options, what are the key operational differences between Kailua Kona's public schools and its private schools?
Key differences include class size, resources, and program consistency. Public schools in the Kealakehe complex area often face larger class sizes and fluctuating budgets that can impact program offerings. Private schools like Makua Lani, HPA, and Parker offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students), allowing for more individualized attention. They also provide consistent, well-resourced specialty programs in arts, STEM, and sports without the same budget constraints. However, private schools require tuition, while public schools are free. Transportation is another factor; Hawaii's public school bus system serves designated areas, while private school families often must arrange carpools or commute independently, which is a major consideration given distances on the Big Island.