The Best Private Schools in Kilauea, Hawaii
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Kilauea. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Island School
Island School
Island School is a highly respected independent college preparatory school serving Kauai's north shore communities including Kilauea. Established in 1977, the school offers a comprehensive educational program from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. The campus features modern science labs, athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. Island School is known for its strong academic outcomes, with graduates consistently attending top colleges and universities. The school maintains small class sizes and offers extensive extracurricular programs including robotics, sailing, and Hawaiian cultural studies.
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Alaka'i O Kaua'i Charter School
Alaka'i O Kaua'i
Alaka'i O Kaua'i Charter School serves students from Kilauea and surrounding north shore communities with an innovative educational approach. The school emphasizes project-based learning and technology integration across all grade levels. Located in Kapa'a, the school features modern classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and dedicated STEM labs. The curriculum incorporates Hawaiian culture and environmental studies, taking advantage of Kauai's natural surroundings. The school maintains strong parent involvement and community partnerships, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills and environmental stewardship. Transportation options are available for students from Kilauea.
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Ke Ala Hele Education Center
Ke Ala Hele
Ke Ala Hele Education Center is a private educational institution located in Hanalei, serving the north shore communities including Kilauea. The school offers personalized educational programs for students seeking alternative learning environments. With a focus on individualized instruction and small class sizes, Ke Ala Hele provides tailored academic support and enrichment opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, community engagement, and college preparation. The center features flexible learning spaces, technology resources, and access to outdoor educational environments. The school is particularly noted for its supportive learning community and success with students who benefit from non-traditional educational approaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Kilauea, Hawaii
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Kilauea, Hawaii, and how accessible are they?
While Kilauea itself is a small town on Kaua'i's north shore, families typically look to nearby communities for private school options. The most prominent are Island School in Puhi (about a 30-minute drive), a well-established PK-12 college preparatory school, and Alaka'i O Kaua'i Charter School in Kalaheo (about a 45-minute drive), which is a public charter school with a project-based learning model. Ke Ala Hele Education Center in Kilauea offers alternative and homeschool enrichment programs. Due to Kaua'i's geography, commuting is a significant consideration, and most families in Kilauea drive their children to school. There are no large, traditional private school campuses within Kilauea town limits itself.
How does the cost of private school tuition in the Kilauea, HI area compare to the state average, and what financial aid options exist?
Private school tuition on Kaua'i, serving the Kilauea area, is generally high, reflecting Hawaii's overall cost of living. For example, Island School's tuition ranges significantly by grade, with high school often exceeding $20,000 annually. This is competitive with other top private schools in the state. Financial aid is a critical resource, and most schools have robust need-based programs. Importantly, Hawaii has the "Promise Scholarship" (formerly known as the Tax Credit Scholarship), which provides state tax credits to donors who fund scholarships for students attending private schools, increasing financial aid availability. Parents should apply for financial aid directly through the school and investigate these state-specific programs.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Kilauea, HI offer that leverage the island environment?
Schools in the Kilauea area integrate Kaua'i's natural and cultural resources deeply into their curricula. Island School has a renowned marine science program, utilizing the Pacific Ocean as a living laboratory, and strong outdoor education. Alaka'i O Kaua'i Charter School emphasizes place-based, project-driven learning often focused on environmental stewardship, Hawaiian culture ('āina-based learning), and sustainability—topics highly relevant to the Kilauea community. Many schools also offer Hawaiian language and studies as core components. Extracurriculars often include outrigger canoe paddling, hiking, and service projects tied to local conservation efforts, providing an education deeply connected to the 'āina (land).
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Kilauea families, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for sought-after private schools on Kaua'i begins very early. For a fall start, applications often open in August or September of the prior year, with deadlines between January and February. This is especially true for Island School, which frequently has waitlists, particularly for entry grades like Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th. Admissions typically involve an application, student assessments or visits, parent interviews, and records review. For families moving to Kilauea mid-year, it's essential to contact schools directly about rolling admissions, though space is often limited. Starting the process 12-18 months in advance is highly recommended due to competitive seats and the island's small population.
For a family in Kilauea, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school (Kilauea Elementary) and a private school option further away?
The decision often centers on educational philosophy, logistics, and cost. Kilauea Elementary is a highly-regarded public school with a strong community feel and no tuition. Choosing a private school like Island School or Alaka'i O Kaua'i involves a substantial daily commute (30-45+ minutes each way), which impacts family time and extracurricular participation. Academically, private schools offer smaller class sizes, specialized programs (like advanced college prep or project-based models), and different curricular approaches. Parents must weigh the financial commitment against their desired educational outcomes and consider whether the unique offerings of a private school (e.g., specific cultural immersion, academic rigor) justify the commute and cost compared to the excellent, convenient, and free public option in their own town.