St. Michael School Mission Statement
We, the faith community of St. Michael School, inspired by the Spirit of Christ: participate in the mission of the Church in proclaiming Jesus Christ and in building God’s kingdom.  We commit ourselves to a true education which seeks the total development of the individual: spiritually, intellectually, socially, morally, and physically.

History of St. Michael School: "A Legacy of Faith, Learning, and Community"The genesis of St. Michael School began in February 1944, in the midst of World War II, when Father Ernest Claus, SS.CC., launched a kindergarten program in Damien Hall with just 19 students. Seven months later, the school expanded to include a first-grade class, marking the beginning of what would become a cornerstone of Catholic education on Oʻahu’s North Shore.

In October 1945, the energetic and dedicated Father Benno Evers, SS.CC., was appointed to the parish and soon partnered with Honolulu architect Rothwell and local contractor Isamu Abe to expand Damien Hall. Their efforts added a stage and basement, providing space for second and third grades. From 1946 to 1948, the school constructed four additional classrooms and an administration building that included the school office, library, and a dispensary. By 1949, St. Michael School had evolved into a bona fide eight-grade elementary school.

The Maryknoll Sisters, under the leadership of Sister M. Callista, guided the young school through its formative years, continuing the mission to teach and serve the community. However, by 1969, a shortage of Sisters and increasing demand elsewhere forced the Maryknoll Sisters to withdraw. From 1969 to 1973, St. Michael School became the first Catholic school in the state of Hawai‘i to be staffed entirely by laypeople. During this period, the school operated with only six grades due to limited resources.

To save the school from closure, Bishop John Scanlan requested assistance from the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Siena in the Philippines. The Sisters arrived in September 1973, bringing renewed stability and leadership. Sister Consejo Cabansal, O.P., was appointed principal, beginning a new chapter in the school’s history rooted in Dominican charism and service.

In September 1992, Sister William Marie Eleniki, OSF, became principal and led the school into the modern era. Under her guidance, St. Michael added a preschool, built a new library, and created a computer lab, laying the foundation for digital literacy in its students.

Further transformation came in June 2008 under lay principal Mrs. Deanna M.B. Arecchi, working closely with Pastor Father Bertram Lock, SS.CC., and Parochial Vicar Father Johnathan Hurrell, SS.CC. Together, they launched a strategic plan that included the construction of a new classroom, renovations to the Parish Hall and Library, and the creation of community-centered projects to foster stronger ties between school and parish.

In the summer of 2017, Mr. Kainoa Fukumoto, a former music and religion teacher at the school, was appointed principal. Under his leadership, St. Michael School implemented a comprehensive technology integration plan that strengthened 21st-century learning and academic achievement. The school also renewed its commitment to its Catholic identity by deepening reverence for liturgy, expanding service-learning opportunities, and ensuring the faithful and orthodox teaching of the Catholic faith. These efforts reaffirmed the school's mission to form the whole person—spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically.

In July 2023, Mr. Dallas Carter, a seasoned Catholic educator known for his dynamic leadership and commitment to faith-based education, became principal. His tenure focused on building strong Catholic culture, community engagement, and academic excellence.

Most recently, in July 2025, long-time teacher Mrs. Nicolle Baron was appointed principal. With a deep love for Catholic education and student-centered leadership, Mrs. Baron brings a new energy to the mission of St. Michael School, building on the rich legacy established over eight decades.

Today, St. Michael School is staffed entirely by lay educators, many of whom are practicing Catholics who embrace the responsibility of operating the school as a true Catholic educational ministry. Teachers and staff are united in their commitment to forming students in faith and character, continuing the noble legacy passed down by the priests, sisters, and lay leaders who came before them.

After over eight decades, St. Michael School remains deeply rooted in the Waialua community. Its mission endures: to partner with families in offering a strong academic foundation, a disciplined and nurturing environment, and an uncompromising commitment to the teachings of the Catholic Church.
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Through God’s grace, the support of the parish and diocese, and the dedication of countless families and alumni, St. Michael School continues to press ad victoriam—onward to victory—in its mission to educate and form the next generation of leaders in faith and service.
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