Anderson, 56, was a social studies teacher at Paia and Makawao elementary schools before he went into administration. He has been with the administration at Baldwin High School, was a vice principal at Wailuku Elementary and was principal for eight years at Makawao Elementary.

Before accepting the appointment as complex superintendent, he was school renewal specialist in the Maui District office where he was focused on coordinating professional development and special projects.

Among other achievements, he said he was able to generate a $3.5 million grant for after-school programs as well as a $600,000 grant for math education in the Kekaulike complex.

"The grant for math education was especially for the elementary schools, where we are starting to see the improvements," he said.

He grew up on Oahu, is an alumnus of McKinley High School and earned his teaching degree from the University of Hawaii at Hilo. He and his wife, Arsie, have two children.

Nomura announced his retirement earlier this year, but said he would remain at the post until his successor is appointed. He said his last day on the job was Friday.

Anderson said he did not specifically apply for the superintendent's position, but did go through a screening process before his appointment went to the Board of Education for approval last week.

"I think I got volunteered," he said.