State Department of Education Superintendent Keith Hayashi (from left) poses for a photo with finalists Waimalu Elementary Principal Glen Iwamoto, Hilo Intermediate Principal Heather Dansdill, Kaumualii Elementary Principal Jason Yoshida, Fern Elementary Principal Glen Miyasato, Nanaikapono Elementary Principal Christine Udarbe-Valdez, Lahaina Intermediate Principal Stacy Bookland, Waiahole Elementary Principal Alexandra Obra and Hawaii Elementary and Middle School Administrators Association State President Dale Castro. DOE photo

Stacy Bookland, principal of Lahaina Intermediate School, was one of seven finalists for the state’s 2023 National Distinguished Principal Award.

Capturing this year’s state award, which was given on April 23, was Glen Miyasato, principal of Fern Elementary School on Oahu.

The National Association of Elementary School Principals award annually recognizes elementary and middle school principals from across the country who set high standards for instruction, student achievement, character and climate for their students, families and school staff, a state Department of Education news release said.

Miyasato will be invited to Washington D.C. in the fall to represent Hawaii and be recognized for his excellence in leadership along with other national state awardees.