Schools in Moanalua: A 2026 Guide for Families
Moanalua is a well-established residential neighborhood in urban Honolulu, situated between Salt Lake, Aliamanu, and Fort Shafter. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to military installations, Moanalua is home to highly regarded public schools within the Aiea-Moanalua-Radford complex area. This guide covers the school options available to Moanalua families in 2026.
Elementary Schools
Moanalua Elementary School serves students in grades K-6 and is the neighborhood's primary public elementary school, located at 1337 Mahiole Street. The school is highly rated and known for its strong academic programs, Gifted and Talented offerings, and active parent community. With approximately 678 students, Moanalua Elementary maintains a supportive learning environment and benefits from its location in a close-knit, diverse community. Red Hill Elementary and Salt Lake Elementary also serve portions of the greater Moanalua area, providing additional options for families in nearby neighborhoods.
Middle School
Moanalua Middle School serves grades 7-8 and is located at 1289 Mahiole Street, adjacent to the elementary school. Formerly known as Moanalua Intermediate, the school has approximately 790 students and 65 certificated staff members. Moanalua Middle offers a range of academic and elective programs and provides a supportive environment for students transitioning from elementary to high school. The school offers extracurricular activities including sports, clubs, and performing arts, and approximately 8% of students receive Special Education services.
High School
Moanalua High School is the public high school for the area, serving grades 9-12 with an enrollment of approximately 2,000 students. Established in 1972, the campus is located at 2825 Ala Ilima Street on a hillside overlooking downtown Honolulu and the Salt Lake area. Moanalua High was honored as Hawaii's Best Public High School by Honolulu Magazine and is known for its strong academics, Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs, and award-winning music department featuring marching band, orchestra, jazz ensemble, and chorus. The school's attendance boundary includes Fort Shafter, housing at Tripler Army Medical Center, and portions of the Aliamanu Military Reservation, making it a popular choice for military-connected families.
Private School Options
Moanalua's central location provides families with convenient access to several well-regarded private schools in the greater Honolulu area. Damien Memorial School in nearby Kalihi serves grades 6-12 and offers a college preparatory curriculum. Punahou School and Iolani School, two of Hawaii's most prestigious private institutions, are located within a reasonable commute. St. Francis School and several faith-based options are also accessible from Moanalua. These private schools offer rigorous academics, extensive extracurriculars, and strong college placement records.
Military-Connected Education Resources
Given Moanalua's proximity to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Fort Shafter, and Tripler Army Medical Center, many families in the area are military-connected. The schools in the Moanalua complex are experienced in supporting military families through transitions, and the School Liaison Officers at nearby installations provide resources for PCS families enrolling their children in local schools. Major General William R. Shafter Elementary on Fort Shafter also serves military families in the area.
Final Thoughts on Moanalua Schools
Moanalua's well-regarded public school system, from elementary through high school, makes it one of Oahu's top neighborhoods for education-focused families. The strong sense of community, military family support, and convenient location add to the appeal for families seeking quality schools in a diverse and welcoming setting.
Considering a move to Moanalua? Browse our other Moanalua neighborhood guides or contact us to find your perfect home.