Back when I was a young lad, there was this weird rivalry between the two private schools of…read moreWaimea; between Parker and HPA. I don't know if they ever got over this, but the fact still remains: Parker is the better school. You could even say its just "real." The teachers are supportive and qualified, the students are pleasant, the curriculum is constantly improving, and the administration is known for its lack of stifling bureaucracy. AND its cheap as far as private school tuition goes.. I spent my last year at Parker, but I wish I could have started earlier! Stay tuned for Parkers up-and-coming "Thomas Center for Young Entrepreneurs Who Want to Learn About Business and How To Do Other Things Well Too" opening fall 2043. What up Doc Sturges! http://www.parkerschool.net/welcome.html

From the owner: Parker School is a small, independent, co-educational day school for students in grades K-12…read morelocated in Kamuela, HI. At Parker School, every student is known, valued and nurtured. Our small-school setting and dynamic program foster confident, compassionate individuals who are thoroughly prepared for college, who enthusiastically engage in life and who positively contribute to an ever-changing global community. Excellence, integrity and compassion are the cornerstones of our mission. Small class sizes, 'ohana (family-like) atmosphere, and a diverse, caring and talented faculty combine to produce a well-rounded educational environment and experience for our more than 300 students. This unique environment cultivates the qualities necessary to succeed in an interconnected world: creativity, curiosity, resilience, constructive risk-taking and teamwork. Student interests are stimulated, building skills and knowledge in all areas of life, including: the physical, intellectual, musical, artistic and altruistic. In addition, students enjoy a rigorous academic program; hands-on experiential learning; an excellent arts program; leadership opportunities; exciting extra-curricular activities such as debate, athletics, drama and dance; opportunities for hands-on community service; a nurturing atmosphere; and a true sense of 'ohana, extended family. Fully accredited by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), Par

Our daughter attended HPA 6-8 grade. At first, all was well until she went to middle school which…read morestarted 7th grade. Once in 7th grade, she was severely bullied and develop anorexia. The school's response was to throw her out and the call child protective services. Not only did they throw her out they lied to my wife and I. I don't say this lightly but HPA's behavior was despicable. Once we placed her in a new school the anorexia cleared up and she is now completely healthy.

My experience: I attended HPA beginning my sophomore year through senior year and the school was…read moredefinitely an experience that changed my life in a positive way. I love that the school has many international students and offers countless opportunities to learn from a diverse group of students and faculty. I was a varsity athlete of the dive team for three years with Mrs. Kassis and Mrs. D and we were the first divers in a long while to make the team well-known for diving. Although the dive team was always small, I loved competing at meets on the Big Island and on O'ahu. In addition to diving, I was part of the cheer team my senior year which was super fun and that year we became HPA's first competitive cheer team. I also participated in dance for my third trimester of sports/activities and always looked forward to performing on the Kahilu Theatre stage every year. Another activity I loved from HPA was the Olympics that was held every year before spring break. This event brought the students together and helped us create connections with other classmates. I was also able to go on a study abroad trip to China and Taiwan during my senior year for spring break, which was a trip of a lifetime and an amazing experience. This school broadened my perspective of different cultures and gave me many opportunities that I couldn't have acquired at a public school on the Big Island. HPA gave me memories that I will cherish forever. Suggestions: Although I had an amazing time at HPA, I feel that the school needs to provide more opportunities to connect the students to the Hawaiian culture. I think they should require 'Ōlelo Hawai'i (Hawaiian Language) courses, especially to those born and raised in Hawai'i. I also think HPA should celebrate May Day, as it is a highly important holiday in Hawai'i. I suggest that the students should be required to do work with the island community to learn more about Hawaiian culture and to find ways to change the school's reputation on the Big Island. One thing the school definitely needs improvement on is the bus system to and from Kona. Kona students have to wake up extra early everyday to make the bus to school, which is great to have transportation to school; but there is no bus going back to Kona at 5:30pm when sports are over. Most parents have to carpool to pick up students and it's A LOT of extra work and gas money. Overall, I loved HPA and I am very grateful for the opportunity to attend HPA and for the countless experiences the school has given me.

I have tried contacting the principle and teachers through phone and email regarding my kids. it…read moreis very hard to get a hold of them and they did not try to get back to me. When I call the office the staff is really rude and want to know too much of my business which I only want to discuss with the teachers. They were not helpful.