Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach City Schools recently announced that Cendy Hart is the new principal of Orange Beach Elementary School. She is a proven instructional leader with a strong record of success. Mrs. Hart will lead one of Alabama's highest-performing schools. This appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the campus.

Mrs. Hart has served as the assistant principal at the school since 2016. She will officially assume her new leadership duties on July 1, 2026. The promotion followed a board meeting held last month. The district is confident in her ability to maintain high academic standards.

During her tenure as assistant principal, the school saw significant gains in student test scores. Proficiency in English language arts rose from 76% to 88% over two years. Math proficiency also increased from 66% to 83% during that period. Chronic absenteeism was reduced by more than half.

Mrs. Hart has managed many important systems, including master scheduling and campus operations. She worked hard to build teachers' skills through coaching and professional learning. Her work ensured that instructional time and student needs were always a top priority. She understands the school systems well.

The new principal holds several advanced degrees from Alabama universities. She earned an instructional leadership certificate from the University of South Alabama. She also holds a master’s degree from the University of Montevallo. She completed her bachelor's degree at Auburn University.

Superintendent Randy Wilkes praised the new elementary school leader. “Mrs. Hart is a proven leader who understands both the heart and the work of Orange Beach Elementary,” Wilkes said. He noted her exceptional ability to lead with clarity and to elevate teaching.

During her tenure, the school earned a 99 on the state report card and received a National Blue Ribbon School designation. These awards recognized the school as one of the best in the state. Mrs. Hart helped lead these important improvement efforts.

Mrs. Hart is excited to remain in the city where she has lived for 16 years. “I am incredibly honored to continue serving the Orange Beach community in this new administrative role,” Hart said. She looks forward to working with families and staff.

The new principal is taking over from Dr. Mary Catherine Law. Dr. Law was promoted to assistant superintendent of the district. This change was finalized at a recent board meeting. All leadership transitions are scheduled to occur at the start of July.

Orange Beach City Schools believes Mrs. Hart will strengthen the school's foundation. Her experience includes working at schools in both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. She has spent years supporting strategic planning and student growth. The district expects continued long-term success.