About Us

Established in 1954, Kāhala Elementary School (KES) is a small, co-educational, public elementary school for grades Pre-K through 5, which serves approximately 253 students from the Kaimuki, Kāhala, and Waiʻalae neighborhoods.  Kāhala’s culturally and ethnically diverse student population from a wide range of social-economic backgrounds is also inclusive of about 68% who attend on a geographic exception.  Of our 253 students in grades Pre-K-5, 8% receive special education services, 10% receive English Language Learner (ELL) services, and 25% are low socioeconomic status.  Kāhala is one of five elementary schools which make up part of the Kalani Complex.  

Kāhala strives to sustain a vibrant environment and culture for lifelong learning where they provide a foundation for continuous personal and academic growth for all students. We develop the whole child with an emphasis on the arts, and strive to provide a rigorous and dynamic environment to maximize each child’s potential. At Kāhala, we have embraced the Choose Love program to help promote compassion and respect toward others and practice thoughtful proactive strategies to create the most conducive learning environment.  

Our teachers provide rigorous and relevant lessons that are standards-based and differentiated to meet the needs of all learners.  All classrooms utilize a variety of best practices to promote student engagement and student self-assessment.  To enhance the effectiveness of instruction, teachers use small groups, technology, and a multisensory approach.

Kāhala values the partnership among the parents, teachers, and staff.  The parent teacher organization (PTO) supports our school’s efforts to provide meaningful events which galvanize the school community and enrich our curriculum.  We communicate regularly with our parents through our school website, weekly communication folders, and daily planners.

We will continue to examine our practices and refine our strategies and delivery to create a successful and enriching school experience for our students.  There are always new challenges facing schools and we are prepared to meet them with confidence and enthusiasm.  

Vision: Kahala Elementary School is a nurturing environment that provides a foundation for continuous personal and academic growth.

Mission:  The school community will address the diverse needs of all learners and nurture their talents and abilities.  The school community will provide standards-based curricular and extra curricular programs where all learners will be empowered to achieve the school-wide learner outcomes. 

Remember our school, Kahala

Remember when we're away

Remember the knowledge gained here

The friendships shared here from day to day

Remember green hills and valleys

Oahu's skies so blue

Yes, we belong to dear Kahala

Our alma mater forever true