Our Mission
Rooted in the Episcopal tradition, Holy Nativity School is dedicated to excellence in education within a small and personalized environment. Built upon principles of respect and inclusion, Holy Nativity School values each child's individuality as it develops principled citizens who recognize their role in the local and global community.
Small School. Big Experiences. Deep Relationships.
Holy Nativity School is a small school with big experiences, a big heart, and a big reputation for excellence. Built on deep relationships and personalized attention, the HNS motto is character, heart, and excellence. We are East Honoluluʻs neighborhood school and we are rooted in the Episcopal tradition of respect and inclusion.
Small School.
HNS is small by design. We serve students from preschool through grade six, with two teachers in each classroom. One class per grade ensures that every student is given the ability to take on new challenges while continuing to develop strengths. Our beautiful and safe four-acre campus boasts three playfields, a full-size gymnasium, and dedicated art and music rooms — facilities often seen at larger schools. At HNS, every child is truly known and "personal best" is part of our regular practice, not just a clever tagline.
Big Experiences.
HNS students benefit from a small school setting with big experiences and unique endeavors like class trips, community service projects, and authentic student leadership roles. Weekly specialist classes in music, art, PE, religion and mindfulness, along with various co-curricular activities, allow students to find their role in sports teams, chapel services, speech teams, and more. Developing student affinities, talents, and agency is a fundamental part of the HNS Way. Students gain confidence in trying new things in a school that understands how to balance support and challenge, honest feedback and encouragement.
Deep Relationships.
Child rearing in the early years is especially sweet when shared with friends who become like family. With frequent and transparent communication between faculty, administration, and families, along with an active Parent-Teacher Organization and a robust network of alumni, HNS is a place where children and parents develop lifelong friendships. We reflect with awe about the many children and families whom we have been blessed to serve, and we take pride in knowing that our students graduate well-equipped for the challenges of Hawai‛i’s finest secondary schools.