Hawaii Principal Vies for Nat’l ‘Principal of the Year’ Title
Alaiasa is the first-ever middle school principal from Hawaii to enter the finalist round. She’s credited with lifting her Kaneohe school out of harsh penalties for failing to meet federal education benchmarks, ultimately garnering it recognition in the state for extraordinary academic progress.
According to a press release, “She reversed King’s reputation for poor academics and disorder, meaningfully engaged parents and created a personalized learning environment for each child.”
Her focuses include Native Hawaiian and special education students.
Alaiasa’s already won a $1,500 grant designated for improving learning at the school. If she wins the national title, she’ll receive another $3,500 from MetLife and the secondary school principals association.
She’s traveling to Washington, D.C. to attend the national competition, which is being held July 25, The final round entails a one-hour interview and a 15-minute PowerPoint presentation in front of a panel of judges.
Her competitors are from California and Mississippi.
— Alia Wong
