2010 State National Distinguished Principal chosen at Hale Koa Hotel

 

Momilani Elementary School principal represents Leeward District

 

Washington Middle School principal, Michael Harano was chosen on Sunday, April 24 as the 2010 State National Distinguished Principal at Hale Koa Hotel in Waikiki. The 2010 State National Distinguished Principal 's Recognition Program Celebration was sponsored by the Hawaii Elementary and Middle School Administrators Association (HEMSAA).

Harano was nominated along with six other principals from seven Department of Education Districts across the state.  The principals represented the elementary and middle school levels of education.

                                                             Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]

Washington Middle School Principal, Michael Harano addressing the audience upon being named as the 2010 State National Distinguished Principal.

Washington Middle School is challenged with the reality of having a largely second language student population. Mr. Harano gave credit during his award acceptance speech to his teachers and staff for always working really hard for the school to make the difference.

Mr. Harano remained humble throughout the awards ceremony and continues to do so today by honoring his staff with congratulation posters posted at school.

Here are Sunday's District Nominees:

Central          Principal Laureen Dunn           Pearl Ridge Elementary

Honolulu       Principal Michael Harano        Washington Middle School

Leeward        Principal Doreen Higa             Momilani Elementary

Windward      Principal Alexis Kane               Puohala Elementary

Big Island      Principal Lloyd Matsunami     Waiakea Intermediate School

Maui               Principal Jamie Yap                 Maui Waena Intermediate School

Kauai             Principal Dr. Liela Nitta            Eleele School

                                                             Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]

2010 State National Distinguished Principal winner, Michael Harano poising with fellow nominees.

                                                             Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]

Hawaii State Department of Education Interim Superintendent, Ms. Kathryn Matayoshi was on hand to announce Mr. Harano as the 2010 State National Distinguished Principal.

Momilani Elementary School Principal, Mrs. Doreen Higa represented the Leeward District as the nominee for the 2010 State National Distinguished Principal Award.

Pearl City District principals, staff and community supporters attended the recognition program in support of her nomination.  Board of Education member, Breene Harimoto and Complex Superintendent, Sheldon Oshio ( a former teacher at Momilani Elementary School in Prinicpal Higa's administration) also participated in support of her nomination.

                                                             Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]

Momilani Elementary School Principal, Mrs. Doreen Higa (center) pictured with PCCA Board Member, Warren Hiromoto (left) and PCCA President, Jitsuo Fujimura.

                                                             Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]

Pearl City-Waipahu Complex Area Superintendent, Sheldon Oshio presenting Principal Doreen Higa's accomplishments at Momilani Elementary School.

                                                             Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]

Principal Doreen Higa (center) pictured with Pearl City District Complex employees and community supporters.

Congratulations to Principal Michael Harano and to all the 2010 State National Distinguished Principal Award nominees.

Mr. Harano will take his new title to compete on the national level in October.