The Best Private Schools in Kaneohe, Hawaii
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Kaneohe. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Le Jardin Academy
Independent
Le Jardin Academy is a highly-regarded independent International Baccalaureate World School serving windward Oahu communities including Kaneohe. The school offers a comprehensive IB continuum from junior kindergarten through 12th grade, with a strong emphasis on global citizenship and inquiry-based learning. The 27-acre campus features modern classrooms, science labs, performing arts center, and athletic facilities. Known for its rigorous academic program and diverse extracurricular offerings including robotics, sailing, and extensive arts programs. The school maintains small class sizes and has a reputation for strong college placements.
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Mid-Pacific
Independent
Mid-Pacific is one of Hawaii's premier independent college preparatory schools serving students from across Oahu, including Kaneohe families. The school offers a comprehensive educational program from preschool through 12th grade with innovative learning approaches including project-based learning and technology integration. The 38-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science and innovation centers, performing arts complex, and athletic facilities. Mid-Pacific is recognized for its strong arts programs, competitive athletics, and excellent college counseling. The school provides transportation options for windward side students.
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Saint Mark Lutheran School
Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
Saint Mark Lutheran School is a well-established Christian school located directly in Kaneohe, serving students from preschool through 8th grade. The school provides a values-based education grounded in Lutheran traditions while offering a comprehensive academic program. Features include small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a strong sense of community. The curriculum incorporates STEAM education, Hawaiian cultural studies, and character development. The campus includes modern classrooms, playground facilities, and technology resources. The school is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong parent involvement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Kaneohe, Hawaii
What are the primary private school options available for families living in Kaneohe, Hawaii, and what are their key educational approaches?
Kaneohe, on the windward side of Oahu, offers several notable private school options, though many families also consider schools in nearby Honolulu. Within Kaneohe itself, Saint Mark Lutheran School provides a Christian-based education from preschool through 8th grade. Just a short drive away in Kailua, Le Jardin Academy is a highly regarded International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering the full IB continuum from junior kindergarten through 12th grade, with a strong focus on global citizenship and inquiry-based learning. While Mid-Pacific is located in Honolulu, many Kaneohe families commute for its innovative, project-based "eXplorations" program and strong arts curriculum. The availability emphasizes the importance of considering commute times across the Likelike or Pali Highways when selecting a school.
How does the cost of private school tuition in Kaneohe, Hawaii, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Private school tuition in Hawaii is among the highest in the nation due to the high cost of living. For Kaneohe-area schools, annual tuition can range significantly. For example, Le Jardin Academy's upper school tuition exceeds $25,000, while Saint Mark Lutheran School is generally more moderate. These costs are in line with or slightly below the premiums seen for elite Honolulu schools. Importantly, most private schools in Hawaii offer robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need. Parents should apply for aid simultaneously with admissions, as funds can be limited. Additionally, Hawaii has a unique scholarship opportunity through the "Private School Scholarship" program for Native Hawaiian children, which can be a significant resource for eligible families in Kaneohe.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools serving Kaneohe students that leverage the local Hawaiian environment?
Private schools in and serving Kaneohe excel at integrating Hawaii's unique culture and environment into their curricula. Le Jardin Academy, with its campus near the Ko'olau Mountains, has a renowned Marine Science and Sustainability program that utilizes the nearby ocean and ecosystems as a living laboratory. Many schools, including Saint Mark, incorporate Hawaiian studies, `ōlelo Hawai`i (Hawaiian language), and cultural practices like chant and hula as core components. Outdoor education is also emphasized, with field trips to He`eia Fishpond, Kualoa Ranch, and hikes in the surrounding valleys. This place-based learning helps students develop a deep connection to and kuleana (responsibility) for their island home.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Kaneohe area, and how far in advance should parents apply?
The admissions timeline for Kaneohe-area private schools is highly structured and begins early. For schools like Le Jardin Academy and Mid-Pacific, the application process for the following academic year typically opens in August or September, with deadlines for first-round consideration falling between December and February. This is especially critical for entry-level grades (junior kindergarten, kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades). The process usually includes submitting an application, school records, teacher recommendations, and a student assessment or visit. For Kaneohe families, planning at least 12-18 months in advance is strongly advised, as spaces are limited and sibling/legacy applicants often receive priority. Attending open houses in the fall is a crucial first step.
For families in Kaneohe, what are the key considerations when deciding between a local public school (like Benjamin Parker Elementary or Castle High) and a private school?
The decision often centers on educational philosophy, resources, and commute. Kaneohe's public schools, part of the Hawaii State Department of Education, offer a standardized curriculum and strong community ties without tuition. However, private schools provide smaller class sizes, specialized programs (like IB at Le Jardin), and often more robust facilities and extracurricular offerings. A major practical factor is the commute: attending a private school in Honolulu can mean 45-90 minutes each way in traffic, impacting family time. Conversely, a local private school like Saint Mark offers convenience and a community-centered environment. Parents should also consider the long-term path, as some private schools offer K-12 continuity, while public education may involve transitions between several different campuses.
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