“I am very hopeful that education will continue to evolve, providing high quality education to students from preschool and throughout their lifetimes.”

Hometown

Kapa‘a, Kaua‘i

Department

Educational Administration

Related Degrees

• MEd, Educational Administration: K-12

What roles did you serve in the Hawai‘i Department of Education (HIDOE)?
I was an elementary and special education teacher for 12 years, vice principal for three years, principal for 16 years, complex area superintendent (Kaua‘i) for seven years, and the assistant superintendent (state DOE) in the Office of Curriculum & Student Support for four years.

How did you become interested in the field of education?
My interest in becoming an educator began while in high school helping to tutor students and volunteering at schools while in college. I was very fortunate to have teachers who were helpful mentors and always available to share their insights about the importance of education.

What have you been doing since retiring from the HIDOE?
I continue to work with new and aspiring school administrators by coaching first and second year principals and serving on community foundations.

What do you miss the most about your time in the COE?
I miss working with fellow students/peers and educators who have served as influential resources throughout my career. The classroom learning was made more valuable through application and continued relationships.

What advice would you give to students considering enrollment in the COE?
Go for it! Students will receive a good education at the COE, positive transitions into their student teaching experiences, and ongoing educational opportunities toward continuing their lifetime education. Students will have continued supports due to the strong partnerships between the COE and the Hawai‘i DOE as well as mentorship experiences with community partners that offer relevant innovative means to prepare students for their future.

What are your hopes for the future of education?
I am very hopeful that education will continue to evolve, providing high quality education to students from preschool and throughout their lifetimes. The Career Academy Programs currently happening at high schools provide an outstanding example. Focused on students’ interests, high schools have modified courses, and UH Early College classes are offered at high school campuses. I hope that 100 percent of all high school students will be able to graduate from high school and obtain a college degree.

How do you propose alumni/retirees support the COE? And/or how do you propose the COE engage its alumni/retirees?
Alumni and retirees remain an untapped pool of resources that can continue to provide guidance based on their experiences. COE can work directly with schools in inviting alumni (and retirees) to participate in professional learning groups.