Is it possible for a school to be both a learning environment and a research lab? That’s the University Laboratory School in Honolulu. It’s not just a school. It’s a hub of innovation. The University Laboratory School serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade. It’s also a place where new teaching methods are tested and refined.
Before 2002 it was known as the Education Laboratory School. It was also called University High School for older students. At that time it was part of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Education.
The University Laboratory School has a rich history dating back to 1895. It began as a teacher training department at Honolulu High School. The school was located in Princess Ruth’s former mansion. In the late 1930s an elementary school was added. This gave education students practical experience. Castle Memorial Hall was built for this purpose. Mary and Samuel Castle funded it. Samuel was a founder of Castle & Cooke.
During World War II Punahou School used Castle Memorial Hall. The U.S. military had displaced them from their campus. However the college continued to operate. Buildings for the high school were built after the war. University High School Building 1 opened in 1943. Building 2 opened in 1948 and Building 3 in 1957. The Multipurpose Building was added in 1963. The first high school class graduated in 1951.
In 1966 the school changed its focus. It began testing a curriculum developed by the college. This curriculum was for use in Hawaiʻi’s public schools. This work is now under the Curriculum Research and Development Group or CRDG. Since then admission is based on creating a diverse group of students. This helps meet the needs of curriculum testing. Over time CRDG expanded its marketing of materials across the United States and internationally.
The university stopped funding the school in 1999. This was due to budget cuts from the state. Alumni and friends raised enough money to cover the loss for two years.
In 2001 the University Laboratory School became a charter school. It was then named Education Laboratory School. The Hawaiʻi State Department of Education now contracts CRDG to run the school. The university allows the use of campus facilities. This is in exchange for testing CRDG materials.
The University Laboratory School offers a comprehensive academic program. Students study English social studies science and mathematics. They also learn art music and physical education. High school students study a second language. The school’s curriculum exceeds Hawaiʻi’s Common Core Standards. It communicates high expectations for all students.
The school uses hands-on activities inquiry and experimentation. They also use simulations role-playing and cooperative learning. The program prepares students for higher education. The University Laboratory School aims to provide all students with choices for their futures.
The University Laboratory School is more than just a school. It’s a place where education is constantly evolving. It shapes the future of teaching and learning in Hawaiʻi and beyond.