About Us

Welcome to Makawao Elementary School

Nestled on the beautiful slopes of Haleakalā at the gateway to historic Makawao Town, Makawao Elementary School (MES) has proudly served the Upcountry Maui community since 1839. Our campus is rich in history, including buildings constructed in 1936 that once served as a U.S. Army hospital during World War II.

Today, Makawao Elementary serves students in preschool through fifth grade from Makawao, Hāliʻimaile, Olinda, and designated areas of Haʻikū. We are proud to be a school where tradition, community, and innovation come together to support student success.

Our Mission

Makawao Elementary School is committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment that supports the whole child. We provide meaningful and relevant learning experiences that empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive as successful, contributing members of a global society.

Our Vision for Teaching and Learning

At Makawao Elementary:

• Curriculum is standards-based, meaningful, and connected to real-world learning.
  
  

• Instruction is aligned, rigorous, and engaging to meet the needs of all learners.
  
  

• Students are empowered to take ownership of their learning through reflection and self-assessment.
  
  

• Teachers collaborate regularly in Data Teams to analyze student progress, plan effective instruction, and ensure continuous growth for every child.
  
  

• Students participate in a well-rounded program that includes Physical Education (PE), Art, STEM, and Hawaiian Studies, supporting the development of the whole child.

Our Commitment to Relationships

We believe strong relationships are the foundation of a successful school. Makawao Elementary fosters a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment where students, staff, families, and community members feel valued, connected, and supported.