Castle High School principal Meredith Maeda has been named Hawai'i's high school principal of the year for 2008 by MetLife/National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Department of Education announced yesterday.

Maeda was cited for raising student achievement, improving the quality of teaching, creating community and educational partnerships, and increasing parent and volunteer participation during his nine years as Castle's principal.

Hawai'i Schools Superintendent Pat Hamamoto said Maeda's leadership " ... has made a difference in the lives of thousands of students, staff and community. He has inspired change and transformed Castle High by creating a cohesive community of learners."

During his tenure at Castle, Maeda has initiated 15 focus groups and a systematic process to address and solve key issues at the school.

One group evaluated different bell schedules to maximize student learning and teaching development. Recently, a new seven-period schedule was approved by the staff and school community council.

Principals of the year from around the country will be honored later this year in Washington, D.C.