44 Hawaii Parent May/June 2026 Parochial and religious schools are regulated by the religious bodies that govern the schools; for example, the Hawaii Catholic Diocese governs all Catholic schools in the state. Many parochial and church schools also work closely with the HAIS. Some common acronyms you may come across in the following editorials include, but are not limited to: National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA), Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA). Many colleges are looking for students with diplomas from accredited high schools, so be sure that your private school choice will allow your child to pursue higher education if they so desire. Cost Hawaii’s private schools range from $2,000 a year to over $20,000 a year. But do not necessarily rule out a school that may appear out of your budget. Though you may wince at the sticker price, financial aid could be readily available. You never know what assistance you might be eligible for if you don’t apply. That said, do not put all your eggs in one basket; apply to more than one Damien Damien Memorial School, located in Honolulu, has been a cornerstone of Catholic education in Hawaii since its founding in 1962. Guided by the values of faith, service, and academic excellence, Damien provides a well-rounded college preparatory experience for students in grades 6 through 12. At the heart of a Damien education is a commitment to developing not only strong students, but principled leaders. Rooted in the Catholic tradition and inspired by the legacy of Saint Damien of Molokai, the school emphasizes compassion, integrity, and a sense of responsibility to others. Students are encouraged to grow in character through service opportunities, campus ministry, and a supportive community that fosters respect and accountability. Damien offers a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for higher education and beyond. With a range of Advanced Placement courses, honors classes, and college counseling support, students are challenged to reach their full potential. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention, helping each student build confidence and mastery across subjects. Damien’s vibrant campus life offers numerous opportunities for involvement. Students can participate in athletics, clubs, performing arts, and leadership programs that promote teamwork and personal growth.
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