Private Schools in Pahala, Hawaii

Hawaii Preparatory Academy is a highly respected independent college preparatory school serving the Big Island, including the Pahala area. With over 75 years of educational excellence, HPA offers a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, global citizenship, and character development. The campus spans 220 acres with state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. The school serves day students from across the island and offers boarding options. HPA's rigorous academic program consistently produces graduates who attend top universities nationwide, with particular strengths in STEM education, sustainability studies, and outdoor education that leverages Hawaii's unique environment.

St. Joseph School in Hilo is a Catholic private school that has served Big Island families for over seven decades, drawing students from Pahala and surrounding communities. The school provides a faith-based education grounded in Catholic values while offering a robust college preparatory curriculum. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, a library, and athletic facilities. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, with strong programs in mathematics, science, language arts, and religious education. Extracurricular activities include sports teams, music programs, and community service opportunities that engage students with the broader Big Island community.

While technically a public charter school, Kona Pacific serves as a premier private-style educational option for Pahala families seeking alternative education. The school offers a Waldorf-inspired curriculum integrated with Hawaiian cultural studies and environmental education. Located on the slopes of Hualalai, the campus features organic gardens, outdoor classrooms, and facilities designed to connect students with nature. The educational approach emphasizes holistic development, artistic expression, and hands-on learning. The school serves students from across the Big Island and has gained recognition for its innovative approach to education that honors both global Waldorf traditions and local Hawaiian culture and values.