How to Choose the Right Performing Arts Boarding School: A Checklist for Parents and Students

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, students like Regina and Marta offer personal insight into what life on campus truly feels like. Their days are filled with meaningful classroom experiences, hands-on electives, outdoor adventures, and tight-knit dorm life—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Big Island. These firsthand reflections offer prospective families a window into the heart of the HPA experience: a balance of challenge, creativity, connection, and joy.

Regina’s Story: A Journey of Resilience

After leaving high school at 17 to care for her child and cope with the sudden loss of her father, Regina put education on hold. Years later, inspired by her daughter and a desire to grow, she returned to earn her GED and eventually, her college degree.

Her journey wasn’t easy. She balanced studies with work and parenting, often doubting if she’d finish. But with determination and the right support, she did.

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, we celebrate stories like Regina’s. They reflect the Ka Makani spirit: strength in adversity, purpose through challenge, and the belief that it’s never too late to learn and thrive.

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, we honor stories like Regina’s. They remind us that education is not just about where you start—it’s about who you become.

Marta’s Journey from Spain to Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy

Originally from Spain, Marta Arcones chose Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy for its unique mix of academic challenge, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Leaving behind the traditional Spanish school system, she was drawn to Hawai'i Preparatory

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and Advanced Placement (AP) are two prestigious academic curricula found in boarding schools offering rigorous college-preparation academics. While both programs offer significant benefits and have similar aims, they differ substantially in structure, philosophy, and the way they present their subject material. In this article, we'll examine these differences in order to help you make informed decisions about which program works best for you.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a comprehensive two-year curriculum designed for students aged 16-19. Established with a global perspective, the IBDP aims to develop students who excel not only intellectually but also physically, emotionally, and ethically.

Established in 1968, the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) was the first programme offered by the IB and is taught to students aged 16-19. Source: IB.org

Teacher Training and Lesson Planning

One of the questions to ask when you are researching schools is what training, certifications, and experience their IB or AP teachers have.

Teacher Training

International Baccalaureate (IB)

To teach IB courses, teachers typically need specialized training and certification.

• The International Baccalaureate Organization offers various levels of certification, including the IB Certificate in Teaching and Learning, which requires completing a recognized program of study.
• For higher-level certifications, such as the IB Advanced Certificate in Teaching and Learning Research, teachers must have at least three years of IB teaching experience and a master's degree or higher in a relevant field.
• Read the IB's

By Betta Hanson, GOAT Co-Director & Residential Faculty at Annie Wright Schools

In a time when screens and schedules dominate our daily lives, outdoor education programs are redefining how students learn and grow.

• By blending academic learning with real-world outdoor experiences, these programs effectively foster resilience, leadership abilities, and a deeper connection to nature.
• The concept of outdoor education dates back to the early 20th century as educators sought ways to engage students beyond traditional methods.
• Early efforts initially focused on direct, experiential learning in nature but later evolved to incorporate academics, collaborative skills, and a focus on environmental responsibility.
• Outdoor education today equips students with critical life skills, preparing them for the world beyond the classroom.

This video offers an overview of Annie Wright Schools.

Why Outdoor Education Matters

Outdoor education provides benefits beyond the immediate thrill of adventure.

• Students develop important skills such as resilience, leadership, and environmental stewardship by participating in activities that push their physical, emotional, and intellectual limits.
• The impact of outdoor education goes far beyond the surface.
• It promotes curiosity and creativity, encouraging students to approach problems from various angles.

Outdoor education also builds a sense of community and collaboration.

• Whether summiting a peak together or navigating a kayak through uncharted waters, students learn to communicate effectively, trust one another, and work toward shared goals.
• These lessons in teamwork and interpersonal skills prepare students to excel in diverse environments and form meaningful connections throughout their lives.
• Ultimately,

As a church musician with a deep interest in education, I've spent years covering various aspects of private schools. Recently, I decided to explore America's Roman Catholic boarding schools. These schools are those bastions of faith-based education that have shaped generations of leaders.

What I discovered was fascinating: just nineteen schools across the country, each with its own unique character but all sharing a commitment to academic excellence and Catholic values. From the historic Georgetown Prep to the picturesque Santa Catalina School by the Pacific, these institutions tell a remarkable story of American Catholic education.

The snapshots of the schools use information that these schools have uploaded to Boarding School Review. I have added links to each school's social media and websites so that you can explore these schools as you search for a school that fits your needs and requirements.

Finally, when you click the school's link, it will take you to Boarding School Review where you can review a wealth of data about each school as well as a Quick Facts panel on the right side of the screen.

About the school: