It's Been Two Years! July 1, 2015

Two years ago, on July 1, 2013, our construction project officially began with a groundbreaking ceremony.  We had invited important members of our State, the military, and the community to attend this momentous event, the first time any of our Hawaii schools received funding of this magnitude from the federal government - $26.6 million - with additional funding from the State of Hawaii - $6.6 million.  (View the slideshow here.)

These past two years have gone by quickly.  As I reflect on everything we've gone through, I am grateful for having had this opportunity to be the principal here during this time of construction.  I have learned so much and forged great relationships as a result:

• To Leroy and Richard - You patiently answer my endless questions and reassure me that everything will work out.  I couldn't ask for better people at our site; you make sure the area is safe for our students and school community and try to minimize the negative impact of the construction on teaching and learning at Hale Kula. We appreciate you.
• To Brenda and the other workers at Facilities - Putting together a plan for our school was a huge undertaking, one that was new for the Department.  We are grateful for having had the opportunity to give our input through the charrette process.  The project reflects our vision for our school.
• To Romeo and Kanako and the design team - You took our ideas and turned them into buildings that are not only functional but pleasing to the eye.  Every morning when I turn the corner and see our buildings, I marvel that this is the school I work at.  
• To Dale, Ryan, and the construction team - Your workers are respectful of our school community; that is so important as we reassure our parents that their children are safe despite all the construction going on. We appreciate your guidance through the RFIs, Change Orders, etc.  We are grateful for this opportunity to work with your team to make our vision a reality.
• To Wendy, the School Liaison Office, and the US Army Garrison - This project wouldn't be happening without your input and your guidance regarding Base regulations and policies.  Communication between the Base Command and the Department has been crucial throughout this project.
• And last but certainly not least - To the school community - We are so fortunate to be one of the first schools to qualify for the Congressional allocation.  We are the guinea pigs and are paving the way for other schools on federal property in Hawaii.  You see the big picture, the final outcome of the challenges associated with this project.  Even though many of you will not be here to see the school when everything is finished, you realize that this is something that will benefit our Hale Kula community in the future.  I thank you for your patience and understanding.

One more year to go until the project is complete!  Thank you to everyone for making this a terrific learning experience for me!