Two new complex area superintendents on Kauai and Oahu’s Leeward Coast assume their new roles on Wednesday in the wake of departures caused by retirements, according to the Hawaii Department of Education.

In the Nanakuli-Waianae complex area on the west side of Oahu, Sione Thompson replaces the retired Ann Mahi. In the Kapaa-Kauai-Waimea complex area on Kauai — which encompasses the entire island — Paul Zina replaces the retired Bill Arakaki.

Both Thompson and Zina served as deputy complex area superintendents in their respective locations in the latter half of the 2019-20 school year to prepare for the transition, according to a DOE news release.

Thompson most recently served as executive director of the Hawaii State Public Charter School Commission. Zina was most recently principal of Eleele Elementary School on Kauai.

Mahi and Arakaki, veteran educators and administrators in the DOE, announced their plans to retire in July 2020 last year. Another veteran complex area superintendent, Art Souza, who oversaw Honokaa-Kealakehe-Kohala-Konawaena district on Hawaii Island, stepped down in December. He officially retires Wednesday, as well.

“I also want to extend a heartfelt mahalo and aloha to complex area superintendents Ann Mahi, Bill Arakaki and Art Souza for their dedication to our haumana and public education,” Superintendent Christina Kishimoto said in a statement.

“Their impact will be felt for generations to come through the students they have taught and teacher leaders they have mentored.”