Hobert “Hobie” Boggs is the new principal at Evarts Elementary School.
The formal announcement was made today to the student body and faculty during a festive celebration of Wildcat pride in the school gymnasium.
Students went all out to welcome their principal who fills the vacancy left by Needham Saylor when he transferred to Rosspoint Elementary earlier this month.
There were pom poms, spirit signs, fan tunnel, school fight song, and lots of enthusiasm. Mr. Boggs entered the gymnasium through a spirit line formed by the cheer teams. Wildcat mascots were present, along with a lot Wildcat paws held by the primary students spelling out “Welcome Mr. Boggs.”
Primary students presented Mr. Boggs with their coloring sheets of him, prepared with love and expertise for today’s event.
Boggs had been a lifelong Rosspoint Wildcat, having attended school there and then returning to coach and teach for 23 ½ years.
“Rosspoint has been home since I started kindergarten there when I was four-years old. I will miss all the students, staff and the entire Rosspoint community. I look forward to building the same relationships with all students, faculty and staff, and the entire Evarts community,” said Boggs.
Harlan County Schools Superintendent Brett Johnson led the students and staff in several activities, leading up to Boggs addressing them for the first time. Calling for a drum roll of sorts as students used their feet to flood the gymnasium with Wildcat pride, Mr. Johnson said he was pleased to announce Mr. Boggs as the new school leader.
Johnson stated that Boggs “will be a topnotch principal,” adding that he will be a great leader to continue moving the Evarts Elementary school forward.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Boggs as the new principal. With more than 23 years of classroom experience and a proven record of leadership as a successful coach in multiple sports, he brings a deep commitment to both education and the values that define our Wildcat community,” said Johnson.
“As a lifelong resident and proud grandfather of eight, with two being current students at Evarts, he has a personal investment in the success of our students and our school. Today’s pep rally was a perfect celebration to introduce him, and I am confident his energy, vision, and dedication displayed during this very nice event will inspire our students, staff, and families for years to come.”
Boggs added that “I am truly honored to serve as the new principal of Evarts. This means a lot to me to be able to give back in this role. With over two decades in the classroom and on the sidelines as a coach, I know the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and celebrating every success — values that define us as Wildcats. I’m especially excited to be here not only as your principal, but also as a proud grandfather of two current Wildcats. Together, we’re going to continue building a school where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to achieve their very best.”
"I just want to say how excited I am to be here with all of you," he said. This school already feels like a family, and I am so glad to be a part of it. I promise that I will always do my best to help you feel and be safe and cared for each day."
Boggs earned his bachelor’s degree at Lincoln Memorial University and master’s at Lincoln Memorial University.
In addition to his eight grandchildren, Boggs and his wife, Jennifer, have four children.