Why Choose a Private School?

La Pietra. Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

While each HAIS member school has its own educational mission,  all share a steadfast commitment to fostering a safe, supportive environment where students not only develop strong academic skills but also learn the values of leadership, social responsibility, innovation and creativity. HAIS member schools are distinguished by their high-quality educational programs, exceptional teachers and family-centered campuses. In addition, nearly all schools provide tuition assistance.

The word “independent” is key: An independent school has the freedom to shape and implement its own educational philosophy, admit students it is best equipped to serve, and hire teachers who are most qualified to inspire and guide its learners. Choosing schools that align with children’s needs and strengths can help set them on meaningful life paths.

Here are 10 reasons parents should consider private education.

1. Mission-Driven Education
   Independent schools are guided by unique missions or philosophies, whether religious, pedagogical (e.g., Montessori, Waldorf) or focused on student-centered values. This allows families to choose schools that align with their educational beliefs and goals.
2. Exceptional Teaching and Faculty Autonomy
   Independent school teachers are more than instructors—they also serve as mentors, coaches and community leaders. With the freedom to design curriculum, educators tailor their teaching to meet the needs, strengths and interests of each student.
3. Personalized Learning
   Smaller class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios enable highly personalized instruction. Teachers get to know their students deeply, allowing for more responsive, individualized support and stronger academic growth.
4. Innovative and Flexible Curriculum
   Untethered from state-mandated standards, independent schools can create dynamic and innovative programs—ranging from STEM and the arts to global studies, outdoor education and classical learning. They can adapt quickly to emerging research and changing student needs.
5. Student Voice and Engagement
   At independent schools, students are encouraged to pursue their passions, take initiative and have meaningful voices in their educational experiences. Flexible structures support deep engagement, creativity and leadership development.
6. Strong School-Parent Partnerships
   Independent schools view families as essential collaborators in their children’s education. Parents can actively engage through roles in governance, classroom volunteering, school events, fundraising and ongoing communication with teachers. This inclusive approach strengthens the school community and enhances student success by creating a shared commitment to learning and personal growth.
7. Distinctive Extracurricular and Experiential Opportunities
   From travel programs and service projects to internships and capstone experiences, independent schools provide rich, hands-on learning that extends beyond the classroom and helps students connect with the wider world.
8. Community and Connection
   Independent schools prioritize building inclusive, tight-knit communities where students, faculty and families form lasting relationships. A strong sense of belonging enhances both academic success and personal growth.
9. Responsive and Nimble Leadership
   With streamlined governance and independence from public mandates, independent schools can respond swiftly to new challenges, educational trends and the evolving needs of their students and families.
10. Commitment to Continuous Improvement
    Through regular self-evaluation and accreditation by independent agencies like HAIS, ACS and WASC, private schools maintain consistent cycles of growth, reflection and excellence.

Information provided by Hawai‘i Asssociation of Independent Schools