42 Hawaii Parent May/June 2026 amount of instruction – or lack thereof – spent on religious studies. Though you may be more interested in college acceptance and test scores, it is important to consider your child’s interests as well – is there an art program that would satisfy your budding painter? Does the school provide the opportunity for your little league star to play competitive team sports? Look into extracurricular activities and summer camp options to see if your child’s interests are represented. Even if your family does not place priority on religion or a specific learning philosophy, it is important to look over the school’s mission statement to determine if their goals and beliefs are compatible with what you want to teach your children. Accreditation In order to be licensed or accredited in Hawaii, schools must follow a procedure that involves both self-evaluation as well as evaluation from an outside party. Because accreditation involves both copious amounts of time and money, newer schools might still be in the process of gaining accreditation. The Hawaii Council of Private Schools (HCPS) was formed in 1995 to develop and regulate specific standards and procedures for operating a private or independent school in Hawaii. HCPS operates under the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools (HAIS). Child Find Hawaii Child Find Hawaii, also known as Operation Search, is a statewide program led by the Hawaii Department of Education to identify children ages 3 to 22 who may have disabilities and need special education services. The program ensures that all eligible children, including those in private schools, who are homeless, or who frequently move, are located, evaluated, and supported. Parents, teachers, and caregivers can request an evaluation if there are concerns about a child’s learning, development, behavior, or physical abilities. Requests may be made verbally, in writing, or by submitting a Request for Evaluation form through the Department of Education. For children under age three, referrals are directed to the Hawaii Department of Health Early Intervention Section. Once identified, students may receive services and supports tailored to their individual needs. Child Find emphasizes early identification, which plays a key role in improving long term educational outcomes. Through collaboration between families, educators, and specialists, the program helps ensure that no child is overlooked and that each student has access to the resources needed to succeed in school and beyond.
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