We moved to Kauai from the highly regarded CVUSD in California. I was very concerned about my…read morechildren's academic education, especially after rumors that Hawaiian schools were well behind mainland standards.
My husband and I visited every school from Kalaheo to Hanalei, both public and private. St Catherine appeared to be the best fit for our 4th & 6th graders, so we gave it a whirl (Hanalei Elementary came in second, with Island School third).
The school is unpretentious. In fact, it is modest in every way. The principal, Celina Haigh, was warm and welcoming. The staff here is really good and the administration (props to Laura Lindsey) is amazing. Academically, the curriculum is quite challenging. Chef Gilly makes amazing hot lunches too.
Parent involvement is encouraged and welcomed. Tuition is super reasonable, with every consideration given to affordability of families.
My kids are better for their time here. They learned the most important skills in life: love, acceptance, encouragement, and humility. They are down to earth and enjoy serving others.
When we moved back to California after four years (insert huge sigh here) I was still kind of worried they would be behind in their academics. But, not only wasn't this the case, but they were actually ahead of the game in science (kuddos Sam Henriques), math (John Rowell), and history (John Rowell). Not to mention, they had some killer stories/experiences to share- Kokee field trip, the on-site garden, and raising chickens.
SCS offers a wide variety of after school enrichment programs (track, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Service Club, Lego Robotics, dance, ukulele, and more) that are really quite fun.
Bus service is provided by Larry & the kids LOVED him!!!!
St. Catherine was the best decision I made while living Kauai. They offer a warm, loving, morally sound and stimulating environment.