The Best Private Schools in Wahiawa, Hawaii
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Wahiawa. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Leeward Nazarene Academy
Nazarene Christian School
Leeward Nazarene Academy in nearby Milliani serves families throughout central Oahu including Wahiawa. This Christian school offers preschool through 8th grade with a strong academic foundation rooted in Christian values. The school features small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a nurturing environment. Programs include comprehensive curriculum with technology integration, music and arts education, physical education, and various extracurricular activities. The campus includes modern classrooms, computer lab, library, and playground facilities. Highly rated for its family atmosphere and academic excellence.
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Le Jardin Academy
Independent School
Le Jardin Academy is a highly regarded independent school serving students from preschool through grade 12. Located in nearby Kailua, it serves families across Oahu including Wahiawa. The school offers the full International Baccalaureate continuum and is known for its rigorous academic program, exceptional faculty, and beautiful 27-acre campus. Facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, athletic complex, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. The school emphasizes global citizenship and holistic education with strong college placement records.
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Saint Louis School
Catholic Private School
Saint Louis School is one of Hawaii's oldest and most respected private schools, serving boys in grades 6-12. Located in Honolulu, it draws students from across Oahu including Wahiawa. The school combines strong Catholic values with rigorous academics and offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including championship athletic programs, renowned robotics team, and comprehensive arts. The 13-acre campus features modern classrooms, science and technology labs, athletic facilities, and historic chapel. Known for its strong community and alumni network.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Wahiawa, Hawaii
What are the main private school options for families living in Wahiawa, Hawaii, and are they located in the town itself?
While Wahiawa is a central Oahu town, most of the top-rated private schools are located in neighboring communities, requiring a commute. The most prominent options include Le Jardin Academy in Kailua (Windward side), Saint Louis School in Honolulu (an all-boys Catholic school), and Leeward Nazarene Academy in Waipahu. There are also smaller, faith-based preschools and elementary options within Wahiawa proper. Families in Wahiawa must factor in travel time across the island via the H-2 freeway or Kamehameha Highway when considering these schools, making carpooling a common practice.
How does the cost of private school tuition in the Wahiawa area compare to the rest of Hawaii, and what financial aid options are typical?
Tuition for the major private schools accessible to Wahiawa residents is consistent with high statewide averages, often ranging from approximately $15,000 to $25,000+ per year for K-12. Hawaii's high cost of living directly impacts these figures. Most schools, like Saint Louis and Le Jardin Academy, offer robust financial aid and scholarship programs based on need and merit. Additionally, Hawaii has a unique opportunity through the **Lexie Lyman Scholarship** for students with disabilities, and many schools participate in payment plan options. It's crucial to apply for financial aid early in the admissions cycle.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Wahiawa offer that leverage the Hawaiian environment?
Schools in this region often integrate Hawaii's unique culture and environment into their curricula. Le Jardin Academy, for example, has a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship with its "Blue Planet" initiative and utilizes its Windward location for marine science studies. Saint Louis School offers Hawaiian Studies and hosts annual cultural events. Many schools incorporate ‘āina (land)-based learning, oceanography, and service projects focused on local sustainability. Extracurriculars often include outrigger canoe paddling, surfing clubs, and intensive Hawaiian language programs, which are less commonly found in standard public school offerings.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Wahiawa families, and how competitive is admission?
The timeline is strict and begins early. Most schools open applications in August or September for the following academic year, with deadlines typically between December and February. This is especially true for highly competitive schools like Le Jardin Academy. The process usually involves an application, student assessments or interviews, teacher recommendations, and often a campus visit. For Wahiawa families, applying to multiple schools is common due to the limited number of seats and the geographic spread of options. Sibling and legacy preferences can play a significant role, so it's advised to start the process at least a year in advance.
For a family in Wahiawa, what are the key considerations when deciding between a local public school (like Wahiawa Elementary or Leilehua High) and a private school on another part of the island?
The decision hinges on several Oahu-specific factors. The primary consideration is the **daily commute** from Wahiawa to schools in Honolulu, Kailua, or Waipahu, which can be 45-90 minutes each way in traffic, impacting family time and extracurricular participation. Academically, private schools often offer smaller class sizes, specialized programs, and different educational philosophies (e.g., IB at Le Jardin). Public schools in Wahiawa, however, provide strong community ties and eliminate lengthy travel. Families must weigh the financial burden of tuition plus transportation against the desired educational model and the value of a neighborhood-based school experience.
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