School Information

Waipahu Elementary School, WES, is the oldest of five elementary schools in the Waipahu Complex. Continuing the tradition began in 1899, to educate children of immigrant plantation families, today our goal is to educate children of diverse multicultural backgrounds to achieve high standards.

As a Title I school, WES adopted a comprehensive school reform model, America’s Choice Design, seven years ago, to implement standards-based teaching and learning using nationally benchmarked standards in addition to our Hawaii Content Performance Standards and the Common Core Standards. Through focused articulation and planning times, WES teachers make data driven decisions on adjustments to curriculum, instruction, and assessments that prepare students to meet grade level benchmarks.  We are also currently working with SchoolRise to develop curriculum for Language Arts.

WES supports its multi-cultural student population through a newly established Newcomers Center for English Language Learners (ELL). The center provides ELL students with opportunities for continued growth as they adjust to being in school and assimilating into a new culture. The center utilizes computer based technology to assist non English proficient students in acquiring the English language successfully. Educational opportunities are also provided to WES parents as many are second language learners themselves. Activities have included classroom visits and parent/child activities to expose parents to standards based education. Adult classes in English as well as basic computer skills are also made available in order to address literacy for our entire school community.

WES also supports the needs of its school community through initiatives that address the economic diversity of the student population. A school uniform shirt is available and the school works each year to provide basic school supplies (paper, pencils, portfolios) for each student.

WES is supported by area Legislators and the Weed and Seed Initiatives. Partnerships with the Navy’s Mobile Diving Salvage Unit I, the Coast Guard Cutters Jarvis and Kukui, Leeward Oahu Lions, West Oahu College, and the Waipahu Community Association provide vital school support.

Working together enables our school community to meet the needs of our diverse student population and serve the Waipahu community in the time honored fashion established over the last 100 years.