The Bethel Park School District Board of School Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Matthew J. Patterson as the district’s 13th full-time superintendent. Dr. Patterson brings nearly three decades of experience in public education and a strong record of instructional leadership, community engagement, and organizational excellence to Bethel Park.
Dr. Patterson most recently served as Executive Director of Secondary Education and Instruction for the Fox Chapel Area School District, where he provided strategic oversight of middle and high school programs, led districtwide instructional initiatives, and supported more than 2,200 students and 180 educators. His career also includes seven years as assistant superintendent in the West Jefferson Hills School District, as well as central office and building-level leadership roles in the Corry Area School District.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Patterson to Bethel Park,” said Buffie Faes, the School Board president. “Throughout the search process, he demonstrated a deep commitment to students, a collaborative leadership style, and a clear understanding of how to guide a district through both opportunity and change. His experience and values align closely with our community’s expectations for excellence.”
Dr. Patterson’s professional background reflects extensive experience in curriculum and instruction, data-informed decision-making, school consolidation and reconfiguration, federal programs, and fiscal stewardship. He has led large-scale initiatives focused on literacy, mathematics, and science achievement, strengthened systems of accountability, and supported districts through periods of growth and transition while maintaining a strong focus on equity and student success.
A strong advocate for relationship-building, Dr. Patterson is known for fostering trust through transparent communication and collaboration with boards of education, staff, families, and community partners. His leadership emphasizes thoughtful planning, shared ownership, and a “people-first” approach grounded in what is best for students.
"It is a profound honor to join the Bethel Park School District. I have great respect for the student-centered focus, courageous leadership, and community dedication found here, and I thank the Board of School Directors for the trust they have placed in me,” said Patterson. “I am eager to begin partnering with the students, staff, and families who make Bethel Park such a vibrant place to learn and grow, as we collectively build a bright, innovative future for all of our students."
Dr. Patterson holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Learning and Leadership from Gannon University and a Pennsylvania Superintendent Letter of Eligibility. He also earned a master’s degree in educational leadership and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. Over the course of his career, he has been actively involved in regional and national professional organizations and has presented topics including literacy instruction, data use, and educational innovation.
Dr. Patterson will succeed Dr. James Walsh, who will retire from public education in June. Dr. Patterson will officially assume the role of superintendent on a date to be announced. The district will share additional details in the coming weeks as he begins his transition into the Bethel Park community.
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