New FDHS Principal Approved

The Board of Trustees met on March 9, 2026, to approve Dr. Mathis Burnette as the Fort Dorchester High School Principal for the 2026-2027 school year.

Dr. Burnette, who has served as Assistant Principal at Stratford High School since 2021, brings 18 years of experience in education. His extensive professional background includes:

• Assistant Principal: Stratford High School, Berkeley County School District (2021–Present)
• Academy Coach, Testing Coordinator, & Coach: Stratford High School (2019–2021)
• Teacher & Coach: Stratford High School (2017–2019)
• Teacher & Coach: Colleton County High School (2016–2017)
• Teacher & Head Varsity Football Coach: Woodland High School, Dorchester District Four (2011–2016)
• Teacher & Coach: Lakewood High School, Sumter (2010–2011)
• Teacher & Coach: Woodland High School (2009–2010)
• English Teacher: Ridgeland High School (2007–2009)

Educational Background:

• Doctor of Education in Leadership and Andragogy: University of the Cumberlands (2017)
• Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership: Arkansas State University (2015)
• Master of Education in Divergent Learning: Columbia College (2011)
• Bachelor of Arts in English Education: Newberry College (2007)

“I’m incredibly honored to join the Fort Dorchester High School community and become part of a school with such a strong tradition of excellence,” said Dr. Burnette. “The accomplishments of this faculty, staff, and student body are well known across the Lowcountry, and I look forward to working alongside this team to build on that success. Together, we will continue striving to provide outstanding opportunities for every student.”

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Burnette to Team Dorchester and to Fort Dorchester High School,” said Superintendent Chad Daugherty. “Throughout the selection process, he demonstrated a strong commitment to students, staff, and the continued growth of the school community. We look forward to the leadership and vision he will bring to Fort Dorchester High School.”

Outside of school, Dr. Burnette values time with his family. He and his wife, Cristine, have been married for ten years and are the proud parents of two daughters, Mattie and Annaclaire.