The Buckley School Names Dr. Larry W. Dougherty as New Head of School

SHERMAN OAKS, Calif., Dec. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, California, has announced the appointment of Dr. Larry W. Dougherty, head of school for The American Overseas School of Rome, as the school's new head of school, effective July 1, 2006.

The appointment comes at the conclusion of an extensive international search process to locate an accomplished educational leader with vision, extensive business acumen and a passion for excellence.

Dr. Dougherty's experience as a head of school, superintendent and principal for more than 30 years brings the depth of leadership that Buckley sought. Dr. Dougherty has spent his entire professional career as an educator. As Headmaster for the American Overseas Academy, he oversees educational program initiatives, manages the school's fiscal activities and directs external and alumni relations.

Prior to this position, Dr. Dougherty served as the Headmaster at the Graland Country Day School in Denver, Colorado, and as the Superintendent of Schools in Fairfield, Connecticut. Dr. Dougherty received his Ed.D. from Harvard University and his B.A. from Wesleyan University.

In his new role, Dr. Dougherty will be responsible for the school's overall curriculum and education programs, which are designed to further the school's longstanding tradition of academic excellence. In addition, Dr. Dougherty will spearhead The Buckley School's efforts to improve and expand campus facilities, known as the Campus Enhancement Plan, and oversee a capital campaign to fund these efforts.

The announcement was made by the Chair of The Buckley School Board of Trustees, Ron Wanglin, who said: "Dr. Dougherty's stellar record as an educator and commitment to his students made him the obvious and unanimous choice for this important leadership position. The entire community, students, faculty, parents and alumni look forward to welcoming him to the Buckley family."

In response to his appointment, Dr. Dougherty said: "I believe in the value of kindergarten through twelfth grade schools, and Buckley has the highest academic standards and wonderful teachers. I am most impressed with the students who are bright, engaging, interesting and enthusiastic learners."

Under the direction of acting head of school, Elizabeth McGregor, a transition team will be appointed to ensure Dr. Dougherty's immediate success when he begins this summer. McGregor will resume her role as assistant head of school when Dr. Dougherty arrives.

The Buckley School, located in Sherman Oaks, California, is the oldest co-educational day school in Los Angeles with 750 students in kindergarten through grade twelve. Founded in 1933 by Dr. Isabelle Buckley, this unique college preparatory school is dedicated to developing well-rounded individuals, based on its "Four-Fold Plan of Education," which emphasizes a balance of Academic Training, Physical Development, Moral Education and The Arts.