St. Patrick Catholic High School Principal Matt Buckley earns Doctorate Degree in Education

On Friday, September 7, 2018, St. Patrick Catholic High School Principal, Matt Buckley, successfully defended his dissertation earning his Doctorate Degree in Education from Liberty University. Dr. Buckley also holds a Specialist Degree from Liberty University, a Master of Education Degree from Concordia University, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. For his dissertation, Dr. Buckley studied the impact of educational technology on student achievement within the Catholic high school classroom.

“The past several years of coursework and research toward obtaining a doctorate have been both a professional and personal journey that required a substantial commitment, but it was truly worth every minute of hard work. My coursework has allowed me to further understand the significance of research in leadership and its impact on serving the students, faculty, and families of our school,” Dr. Buckley said. “I am humbly grateful to have been surrounded by excellent mentors and friends who I admire dearly, and I know that the placement of each of them within my life is intentional and purposeful. I thank God for giving me the strength and dedication in both my education and my career. Each day, I strive to fulfill my calling within my vocation and to make a positive difference in the lives of those in which I have the privilege of serving and leading.”

Dr. Buckley is in his third year as principal of St. Patrick Catholic High School, and prior to serving as principal, he worked as vice principal for three years.

“Congratulations to Dr. Matt Buckley. The coursework in the doctorate program strengthens the abilities to lead change and implement innovation in educational settings.  The Catholic schools in the Diocese of Biloxi are blessed to have dynamic and committed leaders such as Dr. Buckley. His commitment to forming intentional disciples, academic excellence, and helping every student succeed has been evident at St. Patrick Catholic High School from the beginning,” said Dr. Rhonda Clark, Superintendent of Education, Catholic Diocese of Biloxi.

Dr. Buckley is married to Amber (Schoendorf) of Biloxi, and they have two children, Easton, 3, and Adalyn, 1, and are expecting a third child, Rowan, in November.