Relocate with 8th Grader (private schools, move, tuition)

[Kauai Bound?]

We're fortunate enough to be able to try Hawaii for a year or so, and maybe move permanently.

The biggest obstacle is how tough a time our to be 8th grader might have 'fitting in'. Looks like the public schools are not an option, and we can afford the private schools. But, it also looks like many of the private schools can be sort of clicheish and difficult for a socially uncomfortable teenager. ( we're looking at Kauai or Kohala on the BI ) .

We'd love to hear from anyone in a similar situation who has done this.

Thanks!

[Sweetbeet]

We moved here in August with a 7th grader (my son). He and his cousin (15, 10th grade girl) are at Island School (Island School) and like it very much. (Cousin has been here since July 2007, she did 9th and 10th at I-school.) I think he is getting a very good education there, and he's doing fine socially. (He's sort of a typical nerd and getting some typical nerd/geek 'ribbing', but he's found some friends with similar interests and is basically doing fine. The school takes bullying and harassment very seriously, and responds to issues like that in a pro-active way.) He is glad we moved and likes it here very much. There is a real mix of kids at I-school, rich/poor (there is financial aid and some people who are really struggling but education is a priority for them, or for a relative who's paying the tuition), academically advanced/struggling, all ethnic groups, etc.

What does your child like to do other than school? My son swims on a team and that's also a good way to make friends and get adjusted (for me too - I have met some great people through volunteering for the meets).

Check out Island School and give Sean Magoun a call. He's very nice and approachable, and he can answer any of your questions. You might want to visit sometime, too, before you move out here.

p.s. Is there such a thing as a socially "comfortable" teenager? I think that's an oxymoron!