Where passersby might peer into the two new preschool classrooms at Nanakuli Elementary School and see blocks and books and tot-sized furniture, Principal Lisa Ann Higa sees a head start that disadvantaged students urgently need.
Teacher Appreciation Week: Nanakuli Elementary and Waʻ
ena Intermediate
Friday is the last day of Teacher Appreciation Week. We wanted to show our appreciation by turning the spotlight on a couple of long-time teachers who were recognized nationally for their achievements. Hawaii’s 2021 National Distinguished Principal Lisa Ann Higa from Nanakuli Elementary, and 2021 National Outstanding Assistant Principal Marianne Wheeler from Maui Waʻena Intermediate talked with our Russell Subiono.
We also heard listener shout outs about influential educators from across the islands.
Listen
Nanakuli principal receives national recognition for her leadership in education Nanakuli Elementary principal named 2021 Hawaii National Distinguished Principal. (Source: Hawaii DOE) By HNN Staff | April 29, 2021 at 7:44 PM HST - Updated April 29 at 7:44 PM
HONOLULU, Hawaii (HawaiiNewsNow) - A Hawaii elementary principal received a big surprise during a staff meeting this week.
Nanakuli Elementary School principal, Lisa Ann Higa, was named Hawaii’s National Distinguished Principal of the year.
This national award annually recognizes elementary and middle school principals from across the nation for their exemplary achievements.
She was surprised during a staff meeting with lei and balloons.
“You’re doing it in this community where they need people like you who believe in them and their potential. Who love them so much that you will do whatever it takes to make sure the kids are successful,“ said Deputy Superintendent Phyllis Unebasami.