Principal's Message
Aloha,
My name is Zahid Abdul Qureshi and I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the newly appointed principal of Kahuku Elementary School. From birth my parents gave me the nickname Abey. It is an honor to have been selected to serve our community in this new role.
I relocated to Hawaii from New York in 2001 and have resided in the Sunset Beach area since then. My teaching career with the Hawaii Department of Education began in 2002 at Kahuku High and Intermediate school as an 8th grade Social Studies teacher. Immediately I recognized the caring, curious and courageous nature of the keiki in this place. My experiences at KHIS motivated my desire to positively influence those beyond my classroom walls. Seventeen years later I have served in many leadership roles including curriculum coordinator, vice principal, principal and district school renewal specialist. As a leader my top priorities for our school are
Physical and emotional safety of all students and adults
Fostering an environment of learning that supports confident and happy students who are proud of what they create
Seeking out meaningful ways to make a positive impact on our community
Family is one of the most important aspects of my life. I am a loving and dedicated husband to my wife Kristin, who as a special education teacher, shares my passion for learning. Together we are the proud parents of two daughters; Mabel Rose Lokenani will be 5 years in October and Annabel Kahaunani will make 2 years in October. Parenthood has redefined my existence and purpose in life. I love being a father to my two beautiful daughters.
In addition to my professional practice, I have many personal interests. While less important these days, my move to Oahu in 2001 was largely influenced by my search for better waves to surf. I am an avid waterman and love to spend time in the ocean. Music has been an important part of my life since a young age as I love to sing, play guitar, harmonica and piano. Above all else, I love to learn, try new things and create new passions. Our time in this life is very short and it is imperative that we make the most of it every single day.
As a leader my most important job is to listen and learn. My priority for this new school year is to develop positive and lasting relationships with all members of our community. My goal is to accomplish this in a way that builds trust while growing an understanding of our individual and collective strengths, areas for growth and opportunities. Everything we do must be purposefully aligned to supporting our adult and student learners to reach their maximum potential.
Please take time to introduce yourself to me on campus or around the community. I will be as visible and available as possible before, during and after school. Growing our keiki as happy, confident and capable learners is a true partnership and I am all in. As the new Principal of Kahuku Elementary School I look forward to our many future conversations.
Abey Qureshi
Principal Kahuku Elementary School