Lower School: New Student Hub

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Welcome to the Lower School

We are so happy that you and your ʻohana will be joining our Lower School community.

At HPA, we are committed to helping students grow into Confident Navigators — young people who are grounded in their values and prepared to engage thoughtfully with the world around them. This work is grounded in Mālama Kaiāulu, where our connections (pilina), responsibility (kuleana), unity (lōkahi), and storytelling (haʻina) shape how we learn and grow together. We look forward to supporting your child and partnering with your family along this journey.

Dora Kwong
Lower School Principal

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Looking ahead
As you prepare to join the HPA community, you’ll soon be introduced to myHPA—our secure online platform powered by Blackbaud that serves as a central hub for school information, communication, and daily life. Our IT team will reach out in June with everything you need to get set up, including login details and step-by-step instructions. For now, we’ll provide key information and helpful links, and our team is always here to support you along the way. Once you’re in, myHPA will quickly become your go-to resource for navigating life at HPA.

Essential Information

Here are some helpful resources to get you started as you prepare for the upcoming school year. The links below will guide you through key information, important dates, and next steps to ensure a smooth transition. Over the summer, we’ll continue to share additional details and reminders to keep you on track. In the meantime, we encourage you to explore these resources and familiarize yourself with what to expect.

Explore More

Take a deeper look at the HPA experience through the stories of our students. These videos highlight the energy, creativity, and hands-on learning that define life here—on campus, in the classroom, and beyond.

What is Your Favorite School Activity?

Hear directly from our K–5 keiki as they share the activities they love most — from classroom projects to time spent outdoors with friends — and the everyday moments that make HPA such a special place to learn, grow, and belong.

Watch the video

HPA Keiki Triathlon

The HPA Keiki Triathlon is a beloved annual event for our K–5 students, bringing together swim, bike, and run in a fun, supportive environment. It’s all about building confidence, staying active, and celebrating every keiki as they cross the finish line.

Watch the video

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Lower School philosophy at HPA?

    HPA’s Lower School focuses on the whole child—intellectual, social, emotional, and moral growth. Students are encouraged to be curious, collaborative, and independent learners while living out the school’s core values of integrity, respect, pursuit of excellence, and wonder.

  • What does a typical school day look like?

    The school day runs from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with classrooms opening at 7:40 AM. Students engage in a balanced schedule that includes core academics, arts, physical education, and experiential learning opportunities.

  • How does HPA support my child academically?

    Students benefit from a collaborative teaching model that includes classroom teachers and specialists in areas like art, music, Hawaiian studies, and physical education. Additional support is available and helps tailor learning plans when needed.

  • How much homework should we expect?

    Homework is designed to reinforce classroom learning and build responsibility. It varies by grade level but typically does not exceed 60 minutes per night. Parents are encouraged to support good study habits at home.

  • How will I stay informed about my child’s progress?

    Families receive regular updates through:

    • Parent-teacher conferences
    • Written progress reports
    • Student-led conferences
    • Ongoing communication via myHPA and teacher updates

    There are formal opportunities throughout the year to review your child’s growth.

  • What support is available for social and emotional well-being?

    HPA offers a comprehensive counseling program focused on building confidence, relationships, and emotional skills. Students can access counseling support as needed, and social-emotional learning is integrated into daily classroom life.

  • What is experiential learning in the Lower School?

    Learning extends beyond the classroom through field trips, outdoor exploration, and hands-on activities. These experiences are an essential part of the curriculum and help students connect learning to the real world.

  • What are the expectations for behavior and community?

    Students are expected to act with kindness, respect, and responsibility. The school emphasizes restorative practices, helping students learn from mistakes and strengthen relationships within the community.

  • What extracurricular opportunities are available?

    Lower School students can participate in a variety of after-school programs, including:

    • Arts, music, and enrichment classes
    • Swim programs and athletics
    • Horseback riding and tennis
    • Seasonal camps and summer programs

    These activities support creativity, confidence, and skill-building beyond the classroom.

  • How does HPA partner with families?

     HPA values strong partnerships with families. Communication happens through myHPA, weekly bulletins, and direct teacher contact, and parents are encouraged to reach out with questions or concerns at any time.