Back-to-School Start Dates on Oahu: 2024 Guide for Public and Private Schools & Universities

Back-to-school season is here, and students, families and educators are preparing for the upcoming academic year. Whether you're sending your keiki off to preschool, gearing up for high school or heading back to college, knowing your local start dates is essential for planning your route to school (and the office!).

Here's a guide to the start dates for Oahu public and private schools, as well as universities, for the 2024 school year.

Oahu Public Schools

The public school system on Oahu is administered by the Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE), which oversees all K-12 schools in the state.

General Start Date for HIDOE Schools: August 5, 2024 (Monday)

The majority of public schools on Oahu will start their new academic year August 5, 2024. However, individual schools may have different schedules, particularly those with modified calendars. It's always a good idea to check with your specific school for any variations or additional events planned for the start of the school year.

Oahu Public Charter Schools

Oahu has several public charter schools, which may operate on different calendars from traditional public schools. Popular charter schools include:

• Wai'alae School: July 30, 2024 (Tuesday)
• Hālau Kū Māna Public Charter School: August 5, 2024 (Monday)
• Voyager Public Charter School: August 6, 2024 (Tuesday)
• University Laboratory School: August 8, 2024 (Thursday)

Oahu Private Schools

Private schools on Oahu often have their own unique calendars, which can differ significantly from public schools. Here's a look at some popular private schools and their start dates for the 2024 academic year.

• Hawaii Baptist Academy: July 31, 2024 (Wednesday)
• Kamehameha Schools - Kapālama Campus: August 5, 2024 (Monday)
• La Pietra Hawaiʻi School For Girls: August 5, 2024 (Wednesday)
• Sacred Hearts Academy: August 5, 2024 (Wednesday)
• Saint Louis School: August 5, 2024 (Wednesday)
• Maryknoll School: August 12, 2024 (Monday)
• Mid-Pacific Institute, Preschool & Elementary: August 12, 2024 (Monday)
• Mid-Pacific Institute, Middle & High School: August 13 (Tuesday)
• Punahou School: August 14, 2024 (Wednesday)
• 'Iolani School: August 27, 2024 (Tuesday) 

Oahu Universities and Colleges

Oahu is home to several universities and colleges, each with its own academic calendar. Here’s a look at when higher education institutions on the island are starting their fall semesters:

• Chaminade University of Honolulu: August 19, 2024 (Monday)
• Hawai'i Pacific University: August 26, 2024 (Monday)
• University of Hawai'i at Mānoa: August 26, 2024 (Monday)
• Leeward Community College: August 26, 2024 (Monday)
• Kapi'olani Community College: August 26, 2024 (Monday)

Getting Ready for a New School Year

As the new academic year approaches, here are some general tips to help students and parents prepare:

1. Establish a Routine: Start adjusting sleep schedules and daily routines a week or two before school starts. This helps ease the transition and ensures everyone is ready for early mornings. 
2. Organize School Supplies: Gather and organize school supplies, backpacks, and other essentials. Label items with names to avoid mix-ups, especially in younger grades.
3. Set Goals: Encourage students to set academic and personal goals for the year. This can provide motivation and a sense of direction.
4. Plan Transportation: Ensure that transportation arrangements are in place, whether it's walking, carpooling or taking the bus.
5. Communicate with Schools: Stay informed by reading school newsletters, emails, and website updates. Attend parent-teacher meetings and engage with school communities to stay involved.
6. Health and Wellness: Schedule any necessary medical appointments, such as vaccinations or physicals, before school starts. Discuss healthy habits, including nutrition and exercise, with your children.
7. Back-to-School Shopping: Consider shopping for clothing, shoes and other essentials during sales events. Look out for student discounts offered by retailers. To help underprivileged children start off on the right foot this year, the Locations Foundation Backpack to School Supply Drive donated 500 brand-new backpacks stuffed with all the essentials to local nonprofit organizations.
8. Technology and Devices: Ensure any necessary tech devices are updated and in working order, particularly for students in schools that use online platforms for assignments.

The start of a new school year on Oahu is an exciting time filled with opportunities for growth and learning. By staying informed about start dates and preparing in advance, you can ensure a smooth transition into the 2024 academic year.

Best of luck to all haumāna (students), families and educators this year!