HONOLULU — The state Board of Education selected the former principal of Waipahu High School to be the next superintendent of the state’s public schools.
The board voted 8-1 on Thursday to select Keith Hayashi, who has been interim superintendent since August.
The board’s chairperson, Catherine Payne, said they sought a candidate who could heal the school system, bring the community and stakeholders together and transition schools out of the pandemic.
“His work at Waipahu High School has really touched a lot of students who were struggling, and helped them to move forward into successful lives,” Payne said. “So, looking at how that might be able to be applied throughout our system is really important.”
State Senate Vice President Michelle Kidani, chair of the Senate Committee on Education, agreed with the board’s decision.
“I believe that the Board of Education made a great selection in choosing Keith Hayashi to serve as the Department of Education’s next superintendent,” Kidani said. “Keith has proven himself to be a capable leader and someone who possesses the skill sets needed to effectively lead the DOE moving forward. As a former teacher, principal, complex area superintendent and interim deputy state superintendent, Keith intimately knows the needs of our students and teachers.”
Kidani touted Hayashi’s work as interim superintendent, and noted their close relationship during the state legislative session.
“(I) found him to be highly qualified and extremely passionate about providing our keiki with the best
educational opportunities,” Kidani said. “His transparency and willingness to collaborate with stakeholders will be a key asset during his tenure. I wish Superintendent Hayashi the best in his new role and look forward to working with him for years to come.”
At Waipahu High School, Hayashi pioneered the Early College program, which allows high school students to take college classes through a partnership with the University of Hawai‘i. College professors teach the classes on high school campuses for which students receive both high school and college credit.
The program is now available at 36 high schools across the state.
Hayashi’s appointment will take effect July 1. Payne said his salary and other contract details will be negotiated.
The state Legislature has set a maximum salary of $250,000 a year for the job.
