KUA O KA LA - NCPCS

Kua o ka La - NCPCS is a Title I public charter school that is part of the Hawaii Department of Education school district, located in Pahoa, HI with about 200 students offering grade levels from Pre-Kindergarten to 12th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 18 teachers, Kua o ka La - NCPCS has a student/teacher ratio of about 11:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

**Kua o ka La Public Charter School (NCPCS)**, located in Pahoa on the Big Island of Hawai?i, is a unique educational institution deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and values. Situated in the Puna district, the school emphasizes a "place-based" learning philosophy, meaning it utilizes the surrounding natural environment, community, and history as a living classroom. By integrating traditional Hawaiian perspectives with modern academic standards, the school aims to cultivate students who are not only academically proficient but also culturally grounded and environmentally conscious stewards of their land.

The school is well-regarded for its holistic approach, which prioritizes the development of the "whole child" through hands-on learning experiences and community engagement. Because of its location in a region known for its active volcanic landscape, Kua o ka La often incorporates disaster resilience and land stewardship into its curriculum. By fostering strong connections between students, their families, and the local community, the school creates a supportive, family-like atmosphere that encourages students to honor their heritage while preparing them to contribute positively to the future of Hawai?i and the world.

For more information, contact Kua o ka La - NCPCS at (808) 965-5098 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.