Welcome to Hokes Bluff Elementary School home of the state's Academic Allstars! Thank you for choosing to visit our website. I have had the privilege of serving as the principal since 2007.

Previously, I served as the principal of Rainbow Middle School from 1997-2004 and Southside High School from 2004-2007 before returning to my hometown of Hokes Bluff. I am a graduate of Hokes Bluff High School, received a B.S. in Social Science Education from Auburn University, a M.A. in Social Science Education, an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from the University of Alabama, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Samford University. In 2008, I completed the University of Alabama's Superintendent's Academy. I also serve on the Diabetes Advisory Board for Children's Hospital in Birmingham. In 2016, I was humbled to have been selected as the Alabama National Distinguished Principal and in 2017, I earned the designation of Certified Instructional Leader, conferred upon me by The Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS). During 2020-2021, I proudly served as the President of the Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators (AAESA).

I am blessed to have a lovely wife, LaDonna and three wonderful children, AnnaGrace, T.J., and Alli. My parents are Bobbie Gardner and the late Andy Gardner, long time Hokes Bluff supporters.

The community of Hokes Bluff is an outstanding community in which to live and work. Wherever you go and you see someone wearing "green", that usually means they are from Hokes Bluff. This community has much pride and the support we have for our school is phenomenal. We all work together to find new and exciting ways to improve student achievement. We have the best students and staff anywhere and we are committed to meet our community's high expectations.

Please take advantage of all the useful information provided in our website.

Do not hesitate to contact me, Dr. G, should you have any questions! charles_gardner@ecboe.org