Kaneohe Schools: Your Complete Guide for 2026
Kaneohe is a family-friendly Windward Oahu community with access to a variety of public and private schools. Whether you're moving to Kaneohe with school-age children or considering the area for its educational options, this guide covers everything you need to know about Kaneohe schools in 2026.
Public Elementary Schools
Kaneohe is served by the Hawaii Department of Education with several public elementary schools. Kapunahala Elementary School is one of the top-rated elementary schools in the area, known for strong proficiency scores in reading and math. Other options include Kaneohe Elementary School, Ahuimanu Elementary School, Parker Elementary School, and Heeia Elementary School. Each school serves specific neighborhoods within the Kaneohe area, and enrollment is typically based on residential address.
Intermediate and Middle Schools
Students in Kaneohe typically attend Samuel Wilder King Intermediate School, which serves as the primary feeder school for the area. The school offers a range of academic programs, electives, and extracurricular activities to prepare students for high school. Some families in the northern Kaneohe area may also have access to other intermediate options depending on their specific address.
High Schools
James B. Castle High School is the main public high school serving the Kaneohe community. Castle High offers a comprehensive academic program including Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education pathways, athletics, and various clubs and organizations. The school has a strong sense of community and school spirit, and its location provides students with a beautiful Windward Oahu campus setting.
Private Schools
Kaneohe and the surrounding Windward area offer several private school options. Saint Ann Model School provides Catholic education for elementary students in the area. Hakipuu Learning Center offers an alternative educational approach. Many Kaneohe families also send their children to private schools in nearby Kailua or Honolulu, with commute times of 15 to 30 minutes depending on the route and school location.
Charter Schools
Hawaii's public charter school system provides additional options for Kaneohe families. Charter schools operate independently with more flexibility in curriculum and teaching methods while still being publicly funded. Families interested in charter schools should research enrollment timelines, as many have waitlists and lottery-based admission processes.