An independent college preparatory school for students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade, ‘Iolani School fosters educational excellence and personal growth under the visionary leadership of new Head of School Melinda Bihn for the 2026-2027 school year. Dr. Bihn is a passionate and accomplished educational leader with over 30 years of experience in independent and international schools. Under her leadership, ‘Iolani School will continue to perpetuate an environment that deeply values collaboration, humility, and respect for all members of its community.
Academic Excellence
A dynamic educational landscape, ‘Iolani School marries academic rigor with personalized learning experiences tailored to students in grades K–12. With small class sizes and a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, the school ensures individualized attention and support, while allowing students to build deep peer-to-peer relationships. At the heart of campus lies the cutting-edge Sullivan Center, a hub for hands-on problem-solving where a diverse curriculum empowers students to thrive. Courses range from Economics & Entrepreneurship to advanced AI and Machine Learning, preparing students to lead in college and beyond.
Social and Emotional Wellness of Students
To foster confidence and compassion, ‘Iolani prioritizes non-academic skills and mental health. A cornerstone of this commitment is the school’s adjusted calendar for the 2026–2027 school year. By intentionally embedding multiple “Head of School Holidays” and extended seasonal breaks throughout the terms, the adjusted calendar directly supports student well-being and gives students crucial time to rest and recharge.
“One Team” Culture
A global community, ‘Iolani’s “One Team” philosophy was started in the 1930s by football coach Father Kenneth Bray, who instilled in his players that the team is more important than the self. Today, “One Team” is seen in every aspect of school life, from classrooms to athletics. It promotes a culture of caring for others through mutual support, humility, and determination while working to achieve collective success.
Service to Community
Since 2010, ‘Iolani School’s KA‘I (Kūkulu Alaka‘i ‘Iolani, “the creation of leaders”) Programs have partnered with the Pālolo Valley community to uplift students facing barriers to opportunity through free, high-quality educational programs. Serving more than 200 students annually, KA‘I provides year-round after-school tutoring, summer enrichment, and postsecondary scholarships that help students become first-generation college graduates. Rooted in the “One Team” philosophy, KA‘I brings together faculty, retirees, students, families, and community partners to respond to vital community needs.
Additionally, ‘Iolani’s Community Science programs engage ‘Iolani School students in real-world problems through modern genomics and bioethics. This work has expanded across the Islands into a hui of schools whose students collectively participate in citizen science.
New Spaces for Engagement and Exploration
‘Iolani continues its mission to create leading-edge facilities and exceptional learning spaces with the opening of The Arrillaga Student Center. This vibrant, 40,000-square-foot facility serves as the epicenter of campus life, where the ‘Iolani ‘ohana comes together to forge deep connections, nurture emotional well-being, and create everlasting memories. As ‘Iolani enhances student life with the Arrillaga Student Center, it also continues to push the boundaries of academic excellence. The Sullivan Center for Innovation and Leadership is expanding its technological footprint with the creation of a brand-new AI Innovation Lab. Recognizing that artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping the global landscape, this cutting-edge space is designed to shift students from passive users of technology to ethical creators and developers.
563 Kamoku Street, Honolulu, HI 96826 | (808) 943-2222 | iolani.org
