The curriculum across kindergarten and first grade is influenced by values of play-based experiential learning, indoor and outdoor learning, and sustainability. Students focus on literacy, numeracy and developing a sense of self. Inquiry-based learning is connected with the theme of “Our Island Home,” alternating between mauka and makai topics each year. 

Core components also include PE, outdoor education, music and art, with specialist teachers dedicated solely to the K – 1 neighborhood, as well as gardening, and a once-per-cycle chapel focusing on character education. Students begin to learn the use of educational technology with one-to-one iPads that stay at school.

In December, kindergarteners spread holiday cheer by caroling across campus. In March, first graders put on their spring music program; and all students K – 1 perform mele and hula in Punahou’s schoolwide May Day celebration.