This is Principal McCartney’s fifth year at Gulf Shores Middle School. During his time at GSMS, he has brought many engaging, education programs to our students such as Makerspace, Turbo Dolphins, Best/VEX Robotics, Builders’ Club, and Chorus. Prior to his time at GSMS, Principal McCartney has also served as the principal of Oxford Middle School, Assistant Principal of Hoover High School, Secondary Instructional Support Supervisor for Hoover City Schools, and Academic School Director at Helen Keller School – Alabama School for the Deaf and Blind.

Principal McCartney has a background in Special Education which helps him lead GSMS teachers to personalize learning to meet the needs of all students and strive for all students to grow. He has earned a BA in Special Education from Troy State University and Certification of Visual Impairment and Education Specialist from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Mr. McCartney lives in Gulf Shores with his wife, Annie, and two daughters, Morgan and Marlie. In his free time, he enjoys running and spending time with family. His daughter Morgan is active in cheerleading, cross country and track. Marlie is active in soccer, swimming, basketball, and plays percussion in the GSMS band.