1521 Mawae Pl
Honolulu, HI 96817

If you're living in the McKinley Complex area and your child is about to attend McKinley High School, I strongly recommend exploring other options—whether that means transferring through a GED program to another public school or considering a private school instead.While there are individual teachers and staff who care, the overall administration feels disconnected from the student body. The school morale is noticeably low, and it shows in both the environment and the way things are run. There's a lack of unity—not just between students and faculty, but even within the community as a whole. It often feels like everyone is just trying to get through the year rather than actually grow, connect, or improve.The school could benefit from stronger leadership, better communication, and a more structured support system for students. Right now, that’s missing. If you're looking for a high school experience that will really support your child’s development—both academically and socially—this might not be the best fit.

We moved to this school from Webling Elm. The staff here is top notch, every single one of them. My kids love going to school going here. And when I need to interact with the staff, I never have an issue. The ladies at the front office are all over it. I have interacted with the VP and she is really invested in the children. I have seen her advocate for the kids with her own staff of teachers in a private meeting. I had an issue the special service coordinator and principle helped me out the same day. The teachers have high expectations, but they want the kids to succeed. I heard was a good school, but I have been beyond amazed at how special every person is. Nurse Karen who is super caring, but also knows a nervous stomach over a sick child. And one of the school counselor’s, Ms. Fujimoto, who is outside helping the parents who sometimes have difficulties with morning drop off. I really can’t say enough good things!!!

No one in this school is well-educated. The kids don't really like their teachers. Most kids in this school are mentally drained. The special education only ever interact with teachers and other special education students. A lot of kids in this school have been ganged up on and fought against. The family engagement is okay though. If you want your children to be happy, well-educated and treated nicely, you might wanna choose another school.

This school is great, clean, close by.

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