About Our School
At Kona Adventist Christian School, we believe true education nurtures the whole child - mind, body, and spirit - within a safe and supportive Christian environment. Serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade, our small, Christ-centered school in South Kona provides a safe, family-like environment where faith, creativity, curiosity, and character are all part of the learning journey.
Our dedicated teachers provide personalized instruction rooted in biblical values and hands-on learning. In addition to strong academics, students benefit from a special Friday Resource Day - a dynamic rotation of activities that includes chapel, ukulele, Hawaiian language and studies, hula, STEM, art, gardening, cooking, health education, and technology. These rich experiences help develop both practical life skills and a deep sense of cultural and spiritual identity.
With daily Bible classes and weekly chapel, our students are encouraged to grow spiritually while gaining the tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether learning in the classroom, tending to the garden, or worshiping through song and dance, students at KACS are empowered to discover their God-given purpose.
Research affirms the value of Christian and Adventist education. The multi-year CognitiveGenesis study found that students in Adventist schools often perform above predicted academic levels, with achievement increasing the longer they remain in the system. Other studies, including Valuegenesis, show that Adventist education supports stronger faith development, moral integrity, and long-term church engagement. This blend of academic excellence and spiritual formation reflects our mission - to prepare students not only for success in this world but for service in the one to come.
References:
-
Burton, L. D., & Nwosu, C. C. (2003). Student perceptions of the integration of faith, learning, and practice in an educational methods course. Journal of Research on Christian Education, 12(2), 101–135. https://doi.org/10.1080/10656210309484945
-
Kido, E. (2010). The cognitive genesis study: CognitiveGenesis overview. Journal of Adventist Education, 72(5), 4–9.
-
Thayer, J. D. (2008). Valuegenesis research: Adventist schools do make a difference. Journal of Adventist Education, 70(2), 39–43.
-
Vandenberghe, V., & Takahashi, N. (2021). Christian education and academic performance: Evidence from longitudinal data. Journal of School Choice, 15(2), 238–263. https://doi.org/10.1080/15582159.2021.1896289
Our Educational Offerings
Core Academics
Building a Strong Foundation for Lifelong Learning
At KACS, we believe every student thrives on a strong academic foundation. Our Core Academics program includes math, language arts, reading, social studies, science, Bible, and physical education, taught through engaging lessons that nurture both the mind and heart. Students develop essential skills in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving while deepening their understanding of God’s world and their role in it. With a balance of rigorous academics and Christ-centered values, we prepare students to succeed in school, in life, and in service to others.
STEM & Technology
Inspiring Innovation and Discovery
We believe God created a world full of wonder for young minds to explore. Our hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and health science activities inspire students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and discover the joy of learning. From engineering challenges and scientific experiments to coding, computer skills, artificial intelligence concepts, and digital tools, students gain practical, real-world experience while building confidence, curiosity, and a heart for service, preparing them not just for higher education but for a life of purpose and impact.
Arts, Culture, & Music
Celebrating Culture and the Arts
Students grow through a wide range of creative and hands-on experiences that include art, hula, music (ukulele and singing), and Hawaiian studies. While art and music encourage self-expression and creativity, Hawaiian studies provide students with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the culture, values, and history of the place we call home. Through these rich activities, students become culturally grounded learners who embrace their identity, value community, and grow into compassionate, purpose-driven leaders.
Experiential Learning
Where Learning Comes to Life
Learning goes far beyond the classroom. Through hands-on activities, like gardening, cooking, sewing, and other practical life skills, students explore creativity, build confidence, and connect deeply to their culture and community. Our well-rounded program nurtures both heart and mind, helping children grow in character, self-expression, and real-world readiness. In addition, students can participate in engaging programs like Adventurers and Pathfinders, which build leadership, teamwork, outdoor survival skills, and spiritual growth through service, nature exploration, and Bible-based learning.
FAQs
How are the tuition and fees at KACS?
Monthly tuition is $515 per month, totaling $5,150 for the school year (August–May). In addition, a $75 application fee and $500 comprehensive fee is due at the beginning of each school year. We are committed to offering the most affordable private Christian education in Kona, while providing a high-quality, whole-child learning experience in a safe, Christ-centered environment.
Can families apply for financial aid?
Yes! Financial aid options are available for eligible students, typically at the beginning of each school year. However, we also accept scholarships from other non-profit or private organizations year-round.
KACS is proud to be a participating school in the Kamehameha Schools Kipona Scholarship Program. We believe every child deserves access to a quality Christian education. Please contact us to schedule an appointment and explore the financial options that may be available for your family.
How do we support students and families?
Bus service is available from Kailua-Kona to our Captain Cook campus on a first-come, first-served basis. We also offer a daily breakfast option, with both services provided for a nominal monthly fee. Students bring their own lunch from home.
Home-schooled children not enrolled at KACS are also welcome to join our Friday Resource Days for an affordable monthly fee of $125.
Our Teaching Philosophy
At Kona Adventist Christian School, learning goes beyond textbooks. We create a vibrant, faith-filled community where every child is known, valued, and inspired to reach their potential.
Our unique multi-age classroom model, led by a dedicated teacher and supported by a full-time aide, creates a setting where personalized instruction and individualized pacing are the norm. Students learn at the level that’s right for them, advance in areas of strength, and receive extra support where needed, free from the limits of traditional grade-level structures.
While our approach differs from traditional single-grade classrooms, it offers the same rigorous academic foundation with the added benefits of individualized pacing, close mentorship, and strong community ties (QCAA, 2024).
In this setting, younger students benefit from older peers’ guidance, while older students grow as leaders and mentors. Collaboration across ages builds communication skills, empathy, adaptability, and a strong sense of community, preparing students for success in school and in life.
Friday Resource Days give students opportunities they won’t find in every classroom. Parent and community volunteers share their expertise, talents, and life experiences, offering hands-on learning that sparks curiosity and builds practical skills. These special sessions connect students with mentors from diverse backgrounds, inspiring them to explore new interests and discover their God-given gifts.
This model reflects the best of a supportive, multi-generational community, where learning is personal, relationships are strong, and every student thrives academically, socially, and spiritually.
Reference: Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority. (2024). Multi-age education: Research summary. Retrieved from Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority website: https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/downloads/aciqv9/general-resources/planning/ac_multi-age_ed_research_summary.pdf
Kelsey Workman
Principal & Teacher
With over 15 years of teaching experience in the U.S. and abroad, Kelsey Workman brings a passion for personalized, faith-based education to KACS. She has taught in Chuuk, Micronesia, Seoul, South Korea, and Waianae, Hawai‘i, and holds degrees from Southwestern Adventist University and Andrews University. Moving from O‘ahu, she is excited to lead our multi-age classroom, fostering a warm, supportive environment where every student can thrive.
Jamie Sarno
Teacher's Aide
Originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana, Jamie Sarno joins KACS for a gap year before attending Kettering College to study sonography. She brings a wealth of experience working with children, from teaching swim lessons and leading Sabbath school to serving as a videographer, praise team leader, and director at Timber Ridge Camp in Indiana. Passionate about faith, learning, and mentoring kids, Jamie is excited to support our students and grow alongside them this school year.
