A retired superintendent, Dr. Matthew Eberhardt has been a teacher, building administrator, director, and assistant superintendent. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Roanoke College in Spanish and master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Virginia. He also studied in Spain on three separate occasions – one as a scholar under a National Endowment for the Humanities award. Dr. Eberhardt has taught in elementary, middle, and high schools – both public and private – in both urban and rural settings. Additionally, Dr. Eberhardt has been a college professor since 1997 at the University of Virginia, George Mason University, and James Madison University having taught nearly 50 graduate courses in school administration.

As an assistant superintendent, he initiated the International Baccalaureate Programme in Clarke County, established a bridge program awarding four-year college credits to high school students, and initiated 3- and 4-year-old programs that blended special education, at-risk, and traditional students. A redesigned alternative education/suspension program realized 0% dropouts and no out-of-school suspensions. Clarke was recognized by the Governor and the Washington Post as one of the best rural divisions in the nation.

During his tenure as Superintendent in Madison County, he led the team that realized the renovation of facilities that had not been completed since the 1950s, increased student athletic and art opportunities, and demanded higher academic expectations. Dr. Eberhardt dramatically changed graduation rates. At retirement, Madison was a top ten school division for a high on-time graduation rate and a near non-existent dropout rate. Additionally, pre-school enrollment doubled, and all schools had reached full accreditation.

Notable accomplishments center on increasing dual enrollment opportunities and industry certifications. With the smallest high school in the community college region, Madison boasted the highest number and percentage of dual enrollment and certification classes. These achievements were recognized by the Governor for innovation in public education.

Dr. Eberhardt started with Fredericksburg City Schools in an interim capacity in July 2020. In January 2021, he was named Deputy Superintendent. He is chiefly responsible for administrative services which supports facilities, maintenance, transportation, building cleanliness, polices and regulations, health and safety, and communications. Dr. Eberhardt supervises three Chiefs: Academics, Operations, and Human Resources. He is currently working with COVID-19 mitigation strategy and management, the construction of a new middle school, facility upgrades, and the electrification of school buses.