If you’ve spent any time researching schools in Hawai‘i, you might’ve noticed something surprising — a significant number of families here choose private education. In fact, Hawai‘i has one of the highest rates of private school enrollment in the United States. But why?

Whether you’re planning a move with kids or just curious about how education works in the islands, here’s what you should know.

Public School Reputation Varies Widely

Some public schools in Hawai‘i offer excellent education, thanks to strong leadership and community support. But others face severe economic challenges — from aging facilities, underfunding, and difficulty attracting and retaining teachers. Hawai’i has faced a long-standing teacher shortage, largely due to its high cost of living. This ongoing crisis is one of the key reasons families seek out private school alternatives.

A Hawai‘i Has a Single Statewide School District

Unlike most states, which divide public education into local school districts, Hawai‘i has one centralized system: the Hawai‘i Department of Education (HIDOE). While this simplifies administration, it also creates challenges — like slower response to individual school needs, overcrowding, and mismanaged resources. For many parents, private schools feel like a safer bet for consistent class sizes, extracurriculars, and overall educational quality.

Where You Go to High School Matters in Hawai’i

In Hawai‘i, the question isn’t “Where did you go to college?” It’s “Where’d you grad?” — a shorthand way of asking where you went to high school. The answer often carries subtle cues about your background, socioeconimic status, social circle, and even perceived values. This cultural emphasis on high school means that choosing the right one feels like a major decision — one families start thinking about early, sometimes even in preschool. In fact, it is not uncommon to expect to pay more for high school than for college.

Private School Can Feel Like the Default (If You Can Afford It)

On O‘ahu especially, many middle- and upper-class families don’t even consider public school — not necessarily because of poor quality, but because private school is simply the norm. Many parents choose the same schools they or their relatives attended, making it a trusted, multigenerational path. In Hawai‘i, personal reputation and relationships carry a lot of weight — and that extends to schools. The perception of stability, safety, and access to better opportunities makes private school feel like the traditional option.

Hawai’i Schools Have Deep Cultural & Historical Roots

Many of Hawai‘i’s private schools have deep historical and cultural roots — founded during the missionary era, plantation days, or by Hawaiian royalty. Some, like Kamehameha Schools, were created to serve Native Hawaiian children and still center around Hawaiian language and values. Others are affiliated with Catholic or Christian institutions. For families seeking a values-based or culturally grounded education, these schools offer options the public system often can’t — and have become trusted parts of the community over generations.

It’s Expensive — But There Are Workarounds

Yes, private school tuition can be steep, often between $8,000 and $30,000 per year depending on the school. But many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and sibling discounts. Others have work-trade programs or generous alumni support networks. It’s worth researching each school individually if cost is a concern.

A Few Schools to Start With

There are dozens of private schools across the Hawaiian Islands, and the right fit will depend on your family’s values, budget, and location. Below is a short list of some of the most well-known options — with a mix of grade levels, tuition ranges, and special focus areas.

📌 Want a more complete list?
You can browse a full private school directory here:
👉 Hawai’i Association of Independent Schools

Private School Highlights by Island

What Does This Mean If You’re Moving to Hawai‘i with Kids?

If you’re planning a move and have school-aged kids, you’ll want to look at both public and private options in the areas you’re considering. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make — and one that’s closely tied to where you live, how much you can afford, and what kind of community you want to join. You can also visit my Free Resources, which includes a Moving Checklist & Timeline to help you sort out logistics, timelines, and priorities.

Final Thoughts

In Hawai‘i, schools aren’t just about academics — they’re about identity, values, and a sense of belonging. Whether you choose public or private, take the time to research, ask questions, and talk to other families if you can. The goal isn’t to pick the “best” school — it’s to find the one that best fits your family.