At the core of Punahou's mission is a commitment to social responsibility and community service, with a school-wide effort cultivating both the intellect and the heart.

Punahou President James K. Scott often expresses his view on public purpose as "helping to move another person's life forward, helping someone else to reach their aspirations and to fulfill their full promise."

As a school, Punahou recognizes the responsibility it has to serve the community. Through pioneering programs that underscore curriculum sharing, collaborative learning and professional development, Punahou strives to create vital ways for educational change while reaching out to the community.

The Clarence T.C. Ching PUEO Program at Punahou School
Founded at Punahou School in 2005 to serve public middle and high school students, the goal of the PUEO program is to spark a love of learning that will encourage students to attend college.

More about PUEO Program

Private Schools with a Public Purpose
Private Schools with a Public Purpose (PSPP) is a national coalition dedicated to building educational partnerships that serve the public interest.

With national representatives from independent, public and charter schools, and nonprofits, PSPP brings educators together to discuss ways for students to obtain greater access to education.

In 2005, a small group of educators were invited by the George Lucas Educational Foundation for the first meeting, held for those who shared similar ideas about private schools. Since then, PSPP has expanded from 40 to 96 participants.

In 2009, PSPP Director Carl Ackerman led the team by coordinating and hosting the event.

With the theme "Best Practices in Funding and Best Practices of Funders," the symposium drew an impressive cross-section of schools including San Francisco's Lick-Wilmerding High School (host of next year's symposium), Atlanta's Westminster School, Kamehameha Schools - Kapalama and Waimea Public Charter School.