As a parent of a 2001 Kaimuki High graduate and 18-year-plus Kaimuki High School volunteer, I would like to highly commend Principal Wade Araki, who was recently replaced as our principal.

Despite vastly diminishing resources, Mr. Araki worked tirelessly with his staff to restructure the school, trying innovative educational strategies such as project-based learning, Kaimuki2College transition programs and learning academies. He initiated the Kaimuki High Hall of Honor to recognize Kaimuki High alumni for their excellence.

When my son attended Kaimuki High, there were 1,300 students. Today there are fewer than 700. A school’s budget is largely determined by its enrollment count. Yet despite the budget cuts, Kaimuki High was recently informed by the National Career Academy Coalition (NCAC) that its Hospitality Academy is being recognized as a National Model Academy. Being a high school principal is one of the toughest jobs in Hawaii.

As a retired Department of Education teacher and administrator, I know that Mr. Araki did a yeoman’s job in a tough situation. I want him to know that there are others including myself who appreciated his efforts and leadership.

Joanne Swearingen

St. Louis Heights

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