Dr. Kevin T. Hayakawa was born and raised in Rowland Heights and is a lifelong product of the Rowland Unified School District. He attended Ybarra Academy, Telesis Academy of Science and Math (formerly Rincon Intermediate School), and John A. Rowland High School, where he completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

After graduating from Rowland High School, Kevin attended the University of California, Berkeley, earning bachelor’s degrees in Physics and Astrophysics. He went on to earn both a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Professionally, Kevin is a physicist and educator. He has taught physics and astronomy throughout California’s public higher education system—including the California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California—and currently serves as a Physics Professor in the California State University system. His teaching and research have focused on helping students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills while preparing them for careers in science, engineering, healthcare, education, and other fields.

Kevin was first elected to public office in 2020 as a Director of the Walnut Valley Water District, where he served until joining the Rowland Unified School District Board of Education. In 2022, he was elected to represent Trustee Area 5 on the Rowland Unified Board of Education and currently serves as the Board’s Vice President.

Throughout his public service, Kevin has maintained an active presence in the community by attending school events, student performances, athletic competitions, graduations, PTA functions, and community meetings. He believes that understanding the experiences of students, families, educators, and staff is an important part of informed decision-making.

Outside of his professional and public service responsibilities, Kevin enjoys volleyball, astronomy, and spending time with family and friends. He remains committed to lifelong learning and to supporting educational opportunities for future generations.