"Al's experience in all phases of education including posts teaching and as principal, as well as his labor knowledge, political partnerships, and community involvement are the right mix to help move our Association forward in the best possible way for our members," said HSTA President Wil Okabe.

Nagasako recently retired as Principal of Kapolei High School on O'ahu where he served for nine years building capacity and state-wide recognized programs of excellence for his school, students and the State of Hawai'i Department of Education. Prior to his station as principal, he held many positions within public education in Hawai'i, including President of the Hawai'i High School Athletic Association, O'ahu Interscholastic Association, and Leeward Partnership for School-to-Work; Deputy Superintendent of the Leeward District; Principal and Vice Principal of Nanakuli High and Intermediate Schools and Waipahu High School, respectively; and as a teacher for vocational and special education programs.

Nagasako received his Bachelors of Education from the University of Hawai'i, Manoa.

"I am confident that I can provide the leadership required to create learning environments where teachers can do their best work. I would like to be part of a team that works to create a culture of collaboration and inclusivity," Nagasako told the Board of Directors.

The HSTA also announced Wilbert Holck as deputy executive director and Ray Camacho as negotiations specialist. The Board of Directors thanked Jim Williams for serving as interim executive director and chief negotiator during a critical time for our Association. Okabe noted, "Jim's planning and hard work have moved our agenda forward and successfully prepared the groundwork for our new executive director."