Jennifer Hera Pimentel, Hawai‘i’s Vice Principal of the Year
Written by Anthony Kaauamo
Photo by Marisa Hera Photography
Jennifer Hera Pimentel, elementary vice principal for Lāna‘i High & Elementary School (LHES), has been honored as Hawai‘i’s Vice Principal of the Year. This prestigious award by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) acknowledges her contributions to integrating the educational environment with Lāna‘i’s community and cultural identity. In Hawai‘i, each of the 16 complex areas nominates a distinguished assistant principal for state-level selection. Jennifer was nominated for the award by LHES Principal Douglas Boyer and Complex Area Superintendent Rebecca Winky.
Reflecting on her career journey, Jennifer said, “I came back to Lāna‘i [in 2017] and taught fourth grade one year, then fifth grade for almost two years.” Despite her love for the classroom, Jennifer transitioned into administration, a move influenced by conversations with then-LHES principal Elton Kinoshita who saw potential in her, believing she possessed the qualities needed for effective leadership. Jennifer accepted the VP role, with a new conviction that the best way to create a ripple of impact is to take a role of leadership.
Jennifer’s dedication to Lāna‘i’s education system is evident in her work to align the school environment with the island’s community spirit. She has focused on developing a school culture that is deeply connected to Lāna‘i’s identity, ensuring the educational experience reflects the community’s history and values. Her leadership has launched initiatives like Lōkahi Day, which aimed to strengthen the connection between the school and the local community. Jennifer’s efforts are geared towards rekindling the active community involvement she recalls from her time as a student on Lāna‘i, bringing the community into the school to revive the shared experiences and traditions that shape the island’s identity.
In her VP role, Jennifer feels she embodies the leadership qualities of her father, Bob Hera, and the educational passion of her mother, Patricia Hera. She is grateful for the support of her husband, David Pimentel, and their children, Sophia and Corbin. “I’m also thankful for my principal, Mr. Boyer, who leads the way and believes in my abilities,” she said.
Jennifer is set to represent Hawai‘i at the national conference in Nashville on July 11, where the National Outstanding Assistant Principal will be announced. Despite the accolades, her primary commitment is to Lāna‘i’s students, whom she deeply considers as her own. “They don’t live with me, but they’re all my kids, and that’s where my efforts are focused,” she said.