Admin Team
Admin Team
Embedded Files
He ʻike ʻana ia i ka pono
It is a recognizing of the right thing.
[One has seen the right thing to do and has done it.]
My name is Andrew Scott, and I am proud to serve as the Principal of Keaʻau Elementary. Growing up in Orange, California, I spent my teenage years first as a student and then instructor of Karate, where I developed passion for working with young people and deep appreciation for the positive impact that caring educators make in the life of a child.
After high school in California, I transferred to UH Mānoa where I earned a bachelor's degree in History and teaching certification for Social Studies, and years later earned a master’s degree in educational administration. I taught Social Studies at the middle school level before becoming a vice principal, gaining valuable experience at both the secondary and elementary levels. During this time, I relished the opportunity to broaden my perspective and champion positive outcomes for the students who needed support most.
In 2020, I moved to Kurtistown on Hawaiʻi Island—joined by my loving wife Carly, a registered nurse, and two naughty little pups named Cloud and Marty—to support the schools of the Kāʻu Keaʻau Pāhoa Complex Area. As the KKP Complex Academic Officer, I collaborated with school leaders and staff to build systems for data-driven decisions that directly address student needs and honed my skills as an instruction leader.
Now, with excitement and a deep sense of purpose, I am stepping into a new role as Principal of Keaʻau Elementary School! I am honored to lead and collaborate with the dedicated educators in achieving the KES Vision—a vibrant community working together to meet the challenges of the future—and am committed to fostering an inspiring and supportive environment at Keaʻau Elementary where every student and adult thrives.
I was born and raised on the island of Maui and am a proud graduate of Kamehameha Schools. I attended the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in elementary education, and then I attained my master's degree in educational administration.
I began my teaching career as a first-grade teacher and later taught third and fourth grades. Driven by my core values of aloha, ʻohana, excellence, growth, relationships, resiliency, and integrity, I continue to strive to be the best educator and leader I can be to support all students in achieving their full potential.
One of my favorite quotes is by Rita Pierson: “Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can be.” I strive to be a champion for each student each day.
I am excited to continue my leadership journey, serving the students, staff, parents, and community of Keaʻau Elementary School.
Imua!
My name is Kristina McCracken, and I am a dedicated educator with a strong connection to the Kea'au community, having called it home since 2004 when I moved here from Florida. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Philosophy and completed my teaching certification at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.
I bring 12 years of experience from Keaʻau Middle School, where I served as a teacher, School-Wide Coordinator, and TA Vice Principal. I am now excited to transition to Keaʻau Elementary and continue my role as TA Vice Principal.
I am passionately committed to serving the students, staff, and families of Keaʻau Elementary and the wider Keaʻau community, striving to empower students to make a positive impact on their community and the world around them.
I was born in Hilo, and raised in Kalapana. Growing up, all we did was farm and fish. Fishing was plentiful, but we would only gather enough to eat or share with the community. Other than that, Kalapana was one of the prime surfing spots here on the Big Island. I thought I was going to be a professional surfer, but instead I decided to serve my country. I attended Pahoa High and Elementary School and served in the Army soon after graduation. After 4 years of service, I returned home where I met my wife in 1993. We’ve been blessed with two boys age 19 and 12 presently.
My employment here at Keaʻau Elementary began in January of 2000, where I started as an adult supervisor and Part Time Teacher teaching fifth grade remedial math. In 2009, I was hired as the school security attendant when the position was created. I enjoyed working with students and the added challenge of dealing with school safety, drills, inspections, and overseeing the JPOs and Mediators, back when we had them. I've also been creating the school’s annual yearbook, starting with 1999- 2000 edition. I’ve met a lot of good people and developed good relationships with a lot of families throughout the years here at Keaʻau, which is why I've been so committed to keeping this school safe.
During my free time I like to go to the beach, catch a movie at the theaters, or spend time with my family at home. I love to cook, draw, create art, listen to music, watch Netflix, or watch football.
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Page updated
Report abuse