This year, St. Michael School in Waialua celebrates
its 75th anniversary of establishment. In the 1930’s,
Father Ernest Claus, pastor of St. Michael Parish at the
time, received approval from the Bishop of Honolulu,
Joseph Sweeney, to begin planning for the establishment of an eight-grade school. Father Claus facilitated
the construction of a gym naming it Damien Hall
after Father Damien de Veuster, SS.CC. of Molokai,
and in 1944, Damien Hall became the site of the first
St. Michael kindergarten and first grade.
Father Benno Evers, who succeeded Father Claus, continued the task of building St. Michael School. Bishop Sweeney helped by acquiring formerly owned plantation land through negotiations with Waialua Agricultural Company. By 1949, Father Benno added a basement and stage to Damien Hall, constructed a two-story convent for the Catholic sisters who taught at the school, which was complete with an inner courtyard, and ensured the completion of the planned eight grades together with an administration building containing a library and dispensary.

St. Michael School continues to serve our community as a faith-based educational institution that boosts many incredible graduates who continue to contribute back to their community. This year, the school recognizes Aunty Lois Pacolba as its distinguished alumnus, a member of the second graduating class of St. Michael School.

Join in celebrating the school’s anniversary with a special 75th Anniversary Gala and Celebration on Friday, September 20, from 6:00 PM at the Okinawa Center of Hawaii. Tickets available on the school’s
website at www.stmichaelschoolhi.com or call the school office for more details at 808-637-7772. All
are welcome.