Derek Gardner - Principal, Capital High School  

Derek Gardner has served Boise's public school students since 2000. During his education career, Mr. Gardner has served as an alternative secondary summer school principal (2007-10); secondary school teacher (Borah High School - 2001-09; Hillside Junior High - 2000-01); elementary school intern principal (Whittier and Morley Nelson - 2009-10); elementary school principal (Whittier - 2010 - 2015); and alternative high school principal (Frank Church High School - 2015 - present). Mr. Gardner also coached wrestling at the secondary school level. In addition, Principal Gardner has extensive experience in supporting and administering the District’s Dual Language Program, Community Schools Program, and BASE (Boise Alternative to Suspension & Expulsion) Program that provides an alternative education setting for at-risk students to help them achieve success in their educational and community environment.  

Principal Gardner is a dedicated education professional who is committed to the District's Vision of graduating each student prepared for college, career and citizenship. To that end, he is focused on providing students with a strong academic and personal foundation. Principal Gardner effectively works with parents, staff members and students to ensure each student has every opportunity to succeed both in school and in life. Mr. Gardner is a compassionate and inspirational instructional leader who believes in offering students the academic rigor necessary for them to succeed after high school.  

Principal Gardner earned his Bachelor Degree in Secondary English Education and his Master Degree in Educational Administration from the University of Idaho.