Top 3 Public High Schools in Honolulu: A Guide for Families
Navigating the educational landscape of Oahu is a crucial step for local residents and those considering a move to the islands. While rankings from sites like niche.com and GreatSchools provide a helpful starting point, finding the right environment where a student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally is the ultimate goal. Based on public data, here are three of the top-performing public high schools in Honolulu.
1. Moanalua High School
Consistently ranked among the top five schools in the city, Moanalua High School is a standout choice, particularly for military families stationed at Pearl Harbor-Hickam. The school serves the neighborhoods of Moanalua and parts of Salt Lake.
Academic Excellence: Moanalua boasts an overall A grade from niche.com and an A rating from GreatSchools.org. With a 17:1 student-teacher ratio, the school emphasizes personalized learning and shows high proficiency in math and reading.
Specialized Programs: The school features two specialized Learning Centers: Media Communications & Technology and the World Language Learning Center.
Beyond the Classroom: It is widely recognized for its outstanding music program, which includes marching band, symphonic band, and orchestra.
2. Kalani High School
Located in the East Honolulu suburb of Waialae-Kahala, Kalani High School is known for its unwavering commitment to college readiness and academic success.
Advanced Opportunities: Kalani offers a unique dual credit program in partnership with the University of Hawaii, allowing students to earn high school and college credits simultaneously.
Award-Winning Faculty: The school’s success is driven by highly qualified mentors, including Dr. Michael Ida, the 2023 Hawaii State Teacher of the Year.
Community and Diversity: With an A- overall grade from niche.com, Kalani is celebrated for fostering an inclusive, family-like environment for its approximately 1,435 students.
3. Henry J. Kaiser High School
Serving the communities of Hawaii Kai and Waimanalo, Kaiser High School is often described as Hawaii’s most rigorous public high school.
Global Education: Kaiser is a gateway to the world through its International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. This includes the IB Middle Years Programme for underclassmen, as well as Diploma and Career-related programs for juniors and seniors.
Competitive Athletics: The Kaiser Cougars embody excellence in sports, competing in every state championship sport for both boys and girls.
Holistic Growth: Beyond its overall A grade from niche.com, the school provides a rich array of AP courses, leadership opportunities, and robust performing and visual arts programs.
Honolulu offers a high-quality and diverse educational landscape. Whether your student is interested in the global rigor of the IB program or the creative outlets of a world-class music department, these schools provide the foundations for the leaders of tomorrow.