The Best Private Schools in Waimanalo, Hawaii
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Waimanalo. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Le Jardin Academy
Independent School
Le Jardin Academy is a highly-regarded independent International Baccalaureate World School serving Windward Oahu communities including Waimanalo. 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 state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts center, and athletic facilities. The school is known for its rigorous academic program, diverse extracurricular offerings, and commitment to developing well-rounded students. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Le Jardin provides personalized attention and has an excellent college placement record.
Programs:
Mid-Pacific
Independent School
Mid-Pacific is one of Hawaii's premier independent college preparatory schools with a strong reputation for academic excellence and innovation. The school serves students from preschool through 12th grade and attracts families from across Oahu, including Waimanalo. Mid-Pacific features innovative learning spaces including maker spaces, design labs, and technology-integrated classrooms. The school offers a robust curriculum with Advanced Placement courses, extensive arts programs, and competitive athletics. Known for its progressive educational approach, Mid-Pacific emphasizes project-based learning, critical thinking, and global perspectives. The school has a diverse student body and strong community partnerships.
Programs:
Hawaiian Mission Academy
Seventh-day Adventist Education System
Hawaiian Mission Academy is a respected Christian college preparatory school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence within a values-based education framework. HMA offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, strong STEM programs, and extensive extracurricular activities. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. The school emphasizes character development, community service, and spiritual growth alongside academic achievement. With a diverse student body and dedicated faculty, HMA provides a supportive learning environment that attracts families from across Oahu, including the Waimanalo area.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Waimanalo, Hawaii
Are there any private schools physically located within Waimanalo, Hawaii, or do families typically look to neighboring towns?
There are no major private school campuses physically located within the town boundaries of Waimanalo itself. Families in Waimanalo most commonly consider well-regarded private schools in neighboring Windward Oʻahu and Honolulu areas, such as Le Jardin Academy in Kailua (about a 15-20 minute drive), Mid-Pacific in Honolulu, and Hawaiian Mission Academy in Honolulu. The commute is a significant factor, with many families carpooling to navigate traffic on the Likelike or Pali Highways. Some private schools offer bus transportation services from central Windward locations that may be accessible to Waimanalo residents.
How does the tuition for top private schools near Waimanalo, like Le Jardin Academy, compare to the state's high cost of living?
Tuition at Hawaii's top private schools is substantial and reflects the state's overall high cost of living. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition for schools like Le Jardin Academy or Mid-Pacific typically ranges from approximately $25,000 to $30,000+ per year for upper grades. This is a significant financial commitment for Waimanalo families. However, most schools offer robust financial aid and scholarship programs based on demonstrated need. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds are limited. Additionally, Hawaii has the "Pauahi Scholarship" through Kamehameha Schools for students of Hawaiian ancestry, which can be used at participating private schools, providing vital financial support for eligible Waimanalo families.
What unique academic or cultural programs do private schools accessible from Waimanalo offer that connect to Hawaiian culture and environment?
Private schools serving Waimanalo students often have strong programs integrating Hawaiian culture and environmental science, leveraging the unique setting of Windward Oʻahu. Le Jardin Academy, for instance, has a renowned Marine Science program utilizing nearby Kāneʻohe Bay. Many schools, including Hawaiian Mission Academy and Mid-Pacific, offer robust Hawaiian language courses, ʻāina (land)-based learning, and host annual cultural events like Lūʻau. This focus provides Waimanalo children with an education that is both academically rigorous and deeply connected to their island home, fostering kuleana (responsibility) for their community and environment.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and key deadlines for private schools near Waimanalo, and how competitive is admission?
The enrollment timeline for Honolulu and Windward Oʻahu private schools is early and structured. Key deadlines for applications and financial aid typically fall between October and January for the following school year, with admission decisions released by March. Schools like Mid-Pacific and Le Jardin Academy can be competitive, emphasizing a holistic review of grades, teacher recommendations, student essays/interviews, and sometimes entrance exams. For Waimanalo families, starting the process 12-18 months in advance is advisable. Attending open houses (often held in the fall) is essential, as it requires planning for the drive to Kailua or Honolulu. Sibling and legacy preferences can also impact admission chances.
For a Waimanalo family, what are the primary considerations when choosing between a local public school and a private school in Honolulu or Kailua?
The decision hinges on commute, cost, and educational philosophy. Waimanalo's public schools offer strong community ties and no tuition. Choosing a private school like those in Kailua or Honolulu involves a daily commute of 30-60+ minutes each way, which impacts family time and extracurricular participation. The financial investment is major. In return, private schools often offer smaller class sizes, specialized facilities (e.g., science labs, theaters), unique curricular pathways (like IB at Le Jardin or innovative labs at Mid-Pacific), and potentially more resources for college counseling. Families must weigh the deep local connection of Waimanalo public schools against the specific academic programs and resources of a private institution, considering the tangible daily trade-offs in time and money.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities