Have you ever stepped on the oval  and felt guilty about it? Ever wanted to achieve a huge goal in life ? Have a strong love for pizza? Principal Ron Okamura answered  all these questions and many more,  in an interview with The Pinion staff.

   Starting with the dress code. Okamura explained that he agrees with the term “ freedom of expression.” He also added that appropriate wording and pictures is important in school because school is a place for learning. Because some clothing may distract other classmates, the  dress code is expected to be student – friendly.

Many of The Pinion staff  were curious to know what he participated in during  high school. We found out he played football and he wrestled. His goal at the time was to be the first Japanese football player.

Getting a little deeper into his job, we asked how hard being the principal of McKinley High School was on a scale of one to ten, ten being hardest. He said it depended, some days were a one, some days it would go up to a ten. Overall, it was about a five. Besides the stress, Okumura talked about why he enjoyed his job.

     “I think the joy of working at a school, or working at any school, is really worth working with the students, or being with the students. The one thing I really enjoy about this school is the type of students we have here at McKinley High School,”  Okamura said.

  Speaking of the students, every year a group of seniors graduate and continue their life. Okamura shared his thoughts on the seniors leaving.

  “The sad part about it is, you know, you may never see these students again, ever,” said Okamura.

  He said  that there are a lot of students that stick in his memory, even if  they do something that  not so memorable. He added that is was bittersweet, seeing them successfully graduate thirteen years of education, holding memories but knowing that it may be the last time you see those students.

 We asked him about sports, how he felt about football scores. He said winning or losing is not as important as playing hard and trying to the max.

     “I feel bad that we lose, but on the other hand I am still very proud that we have a team, our team works very hard. You have to believe, and that’s all,” Okamura said.
  We ended the interview by walking through his office and seeing many interesting things, such as his football helmets, the skateboard collection, and his toys.