HONOLULU (KHON2) -- In Hawai‘i, school choice is more than just a buzzword. For families navigating the islands’ unique educational landscape, the ability to choose a school that best fits their child’s needs can make a significant difference. Deanna D’Olier, Executive Director Elect for the Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools (HAIS), has seen firsthand how school choice empowers families and supports diversity in education. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You “School choice is critical for maintaining a diversity of educational options, especially ones that reflect our unique community here in Hawai‘i,” D’Olier said. “It’s all about giving families the opportunity to find the right fit for their child, one that resonates with their learning needs and interests. That’s where true educational equity lies.” In Hawai‘i, families aren’t limited to just one option. There are a variety of private and public schools that offer distinct educational pathways, and the opportunity to explore different options can be transformative. According to D’Olier, school choice places the power of decision-making back in the hands of families and allows them to select an environment where their child can truly thrive. “Every student is unique,” D’Olier continued. “And each family has a different set of values and needs. Some might want a more traditional education, others may want a focus on arts, or science or perhaps a religious or language immersion school. With school choice, parents aren’t confined to one model and can select the school that aligns with their child’s learning style.” For those unfamiliar with the wide array of independent schools in Hawai‘i, D’Olier encouraged families to explore the HAIS website where they can access profiles of over 100 private schools in the state. This resource helps families make informed decisions by providing detailed information about each school’s offerings. “We’re fortunate in Hawai‘i to have a robust, diverse group of independent schools,” D’Olier said. “Our website makes it easy to explore all of the options, whether you’re looking for a preschool or a high school and whether you’re here on O‘ahu or one of the neighbor islands.” One exciting event that will make exploring school options even easier is the HAIS Admissions Fair. It is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 6. This annual event is free and open to the public, and it gives families the opportunity to meet with admissions teams from over 40 private schools as well as attend informative breakout sessions. “The Admissions Fair is a great way for families to get to know the schools firsthand,” D’Olier explained. “You’ll be able to ask about entry requirements, meet with school representatives and even attend sessions that will help guide you through the process of selecting the right school.” For those unable to attend in person, there will also be virtual options available in order to ensure that families across Hawai‘i's islands can participate, no matter where they live. The fair is just one example of how HAIS is working to make school choice more accessible to everyone in Hawai‘i. D’Olier pointed out that many of the state’s private schools are already deeply engaged in addressing issues like the impact of technology on education and ensuring that students are prepared for the future. “A lot of our schools are already thinking about the future,” D’Olier said. “What does it mean for us to prepare our keiki for the challenges they’ll face in a rapidly changing world, where technology is evolving so quickly? For example, we’re seeing the rise of AI and the new professions that will emerge from it, and it’s crucial that we equip our students with the skills they’ll need to succeed.” She mentioned that the ongoing discussions about how to integrate technology into teaching and learning will continue to shape the educational landscape for the next several years. With the rapid advancement of AI and automation, it’s clear that preparing students for the future means adapting curriculums and approaches to teaching. “AI is going to change everything,” D’Olier said. “Some professionals will adapt, and others will not. That’s why we’re thinking about how to ensure our students are prepared to enter industries that may not even exist yet.” The importance of fostering adaptability, creativity, and technological literacy in students is something D’Olier sees as a central focus for Hawai‘i’s independent schools in the years to come. “Education is not just about teaching content,” she added. “It’s about helping students develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will enable them to succeed in whatever field they choose.” For those interested in learning more about independent schools in Hawai‘i and the broader world of educational choice, D’Olier encourages families to mark their calendars for key events later this year. Again, the HAIS Admissions Fair will take place on Saturday, Sept. 6. It’s an event that's free and open to the public taking place at Hawai‘i Convention Center, RM. 316ABC from10: a.m. top 2 p.m. Some of the offerings at the event include: Interactive booths with 40+ private schools. Meet preschool through high school admissions teams. Inquire about entry requirements. Informative breakout sessions. Keiki activities and hands-on learning experiences. Free and open to the public. You can click here for more information as the event draws near. The 2025 Hawaii K-12 Parent and School Expo is a resource that can assist families explore their choices. Lastly, please save Oct. 16 and 17 for the 2025 Schools of the Future Conference. This is the largest educators’ conference in the state. It is jointly presented by the Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools and the Hawai‘i State Department of Education in partnership with the Hawai‘i Society for Technology in Education and the Pillars of Peace Hawai‘i Fund at the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. “These are events that can make a real difference,” D’Olier said. “Whether you’re a parent looking for the best educational fit for your child, or an educator looking to stay ahead of the curve, these are opportunities you don’t want to miss.” As school choice continues to grow in importance, the resources and events provided by HAIS give Hawai‘i’s families the tools they need to make informed, confident decisions about their children's education. You can click here to learn more about Hawaiʻi Association of Independent Schools. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 Whether through fairs, school profiles, or workshops, school choice is becoming more accessible and impactful, ensuring that Hawai‘i’s keiki have the best opportunities to succeed.