Mr. James Rippard

With more than two decades of experience in education, Mr. Rippard has dedicated his career to fostering academic excellence among students and staff. As principal of Kalaheo High School in the Windward District of Hawaii since September 2018, James Rippard has led a team of 115 employees, including 65 teachers, in serving 875 students in grades 9-12. His leadership extends beyond the school gates, establishing vital community connections and support networks, including partnerships with Marine Corps Base Hawaii units and various community organizations. Under his guidance, innovative programs like the Academy of Media and Design were implemented, targeting first-generation college students and enhancing student engagement. His commitment to professional development has resulted in the preparation of three vice-principals for their own principalships. 

Mr. Rippard's journey in education is underpinned by a solid academic foundation. He earned a Master's in Educational Management and Principal Certification from the University of Houston – Clear Lake in 2008. Prior to that, he completed his Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning and Development with a specialization in English and Reading from The University of Texas at Austin in 2001.

His career has been marked by numerous achievements in enhancing student outcomes and school performance. As principal of Kalaheo High School, he led the school to consistently rank within the top five out of 65 high schools in Hawaii, exceeding state averages across various metrics. Notably, he spearheaded the implementation of a Positive Behavior Intervention and Support system, resulting in a significant reduction in behavior referrals. Additionally, his tenure at Kalaheo High School saw the successful maintenance of WASC Accreditation and leadership in complex-wide initiatives, including the establishment of the first DOE-approved Hale Halawai on a DOE campus. Principal Rippard’s dedication and commitment to provide excellence in leadership for Hawaii’s public schools, and inspiring teachers, students, and community resulted in him being a finalist for the Masayuki Tokioka Excellence in School Leadership Award in 2018 and 2020.

James Rippard's dedication to service extends beyond the educational realm. He has served in the United States Navy, both on active duty and in the reserves. While on active duty, he served aboard the USS Nimitz CVN-68 and USS Canopus AS-34, as a Hull Maintenance Technician Petty Officer 3rd Class. Following his honorable discharge from active duty, he continued his service in the Navy Reserves, achieving the rank of Hull Maintenance Technician Senior Chief Petty Officer. James Rippard's military experience has instilled in him a sense of discipline, integrity, and leadership, which he applies in his educational endeavors.