La Pietra's Philosophy

A La Pietra education provides girls in grades six to twelve with unique opportunities for college preparation, intellectual growth and self-understanding. Course offerings are grounded in the most current research and practice in the ways girls learn; the broad curriculum allows girls to master traditional academic disciplines while exploring new directions through electives and a required Independent Project. All La Pietra programs are built around the idea that a girl's middle and upper school years are a "pleasurable struggle" made up of both challenges and achievements.

Intellectual development is our primary goal. In small classes, teachers encourage risk-taking and foster the skills and habits essential for success. La Pietra students are fluent readers and writers, ambitious, independent thinkers, articulate communicators and good listeners. They are creative in finding solutions, resourceful in searching for information, agile in analyzing problems, confident working alone and effective in partnership or with groups. A La Pietra education also builds a strong appreciation for the arts, a high level of scientific, mathematical and technological literacy, an understanding of the history and interdependence of nations and the ability to communicate in a second language.

As part of La Pietra's commitment to the education of the whole girl, the school also supports the home in guiding ethical, emotional and physical development. Athletic programs, class and group activities, service projects, individual guidance and close teacher-student relationships support the school's values: responsibility, patience, cooperation, respect, self-discipline, perseverance and service to others. Distinct middle school and high school programs allow for each girl's full participation in social, governance, service, athletic and other opportunities. Open communication and shared goals characterize La Pietra's relationships with parents.

The student body of approximately 240 girls represents the rich ethnic and socioeconomic diversity of Hawaii. La Pietra seeks responsible learners with a wide range of abilities and the potential for solid academic growth. The school maintains a strong commitment to need-based financial aid including full tuition grants to a limited number of girls. The faculty and staff are a diverse, committed group of women and men whose expertise, compassion and high expectations draw from each girl the very best she has to contribute in class and as a member of the school community.

KAHIAU is Hawaiian for the personal quality of selfless giving and generosity of spirit, without expectation of return or reward. At La Pietra we seek to cultivate the spirit of KAHIAU as a way of life in our school community and to share this spirit with the greater community that is our world.