Cultivating Kuleana in Hawaiʻi’s Independent Schools

Photo: Courtesy of HAIS

As we prepare to welcome new families into Hawai‘i’s vibrant community of independent schools, I am reminded of the important role schools play not only in educating students, but in shaping the people they become. Across HAIS member schools, this work is deeply rooted in the concept of kuleana—a sense of responsibility, privilege, and care for oneself, one’s community and the world around us.

In a time when the challenges facing our Islands and our world grow ever more complex, cultivating kuleana in our students has never been more imperative. Our students are growing up in a world that asks them to think critically, act ethically, care deeply and contribute meaningfully. When young people understand their responsibility is to something greater than themselves, they become the leaders, innovators and compassionate community members our future demands.

While HAIS member schools are unique in their offerings, they share a common belief that education is about more than academic achievement; it is about shaping young people who feel a genuine connection to their communities and a responsibility to contribute to something larger than themselves. Across HAIS member schools, kuleana is cultivated in many ways. Students engage in service learning and community partnerships that connect classroom learning to real-world needs. They participate in ‘āina-based education that deepens their connection to Hawai‘i’s history, culture, environment and people. They learn leadership through student government, peer mentoring, athletics, the arts and collaborative projects. They practice responsibility through advisory programs, chapel or values-based reflection, sustainability initiatives, and school traditions that emphasize respect, belonging and care for others. In these ways, kuleana is not treated as a single lesson or program. It is embedded throughout a school’s program—through relationships, expectations, culture and community—allowing students to develop empathy, resilience, cultural understanding, civic responsibility and a strong sense of purpose.

This is the 24th year that the Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools has partnered with HONOLULU Magazine to offer this Private School Guide to families across the state. We are grateful to Altres, whose generous support helps make this valuable resource possible. These enduring partnerships ensure that parents and students have access to key information as they navigate one of the most important decisions in a child’s life.

The guide includes a comprehensive listing of Hawai‘i’s licensed and/or accredited private schools. The HAIS website—www.hais.us—also provides a searchable database of HAIS member schools, each with detailed profile pages to support your school search.

Choosing the right school is a deeply personal decision. We hope this guide serves as a helpful first step as you explore school communities where your child can thrive and where they will be inspired to embrace their own kuleana with confidence, compassion and pride.

Mahalo,

Deanna S.T. D’olier
Executive Director
Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools