St. John Paul II Catholic High School (JPII) recently announced the hiring of Michael C. Burke as the school's new president. Burke joins JPII with more than 40 years of experience in Catholic school education as a headmaster, president, educator, consultant, and coach in many different school districts around the United States.

Before joining JPII, Burke was the president of San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno, California. Some of his prior places of employment include Melbourne Central Catholic High School in Melbourne, Florida; Subiaco Academy in Subiaco, Arkansas; and St. Joseph Catholic School System in Bryan, Texas. Burke also helped found two Catholic high schools in Alabama, St. Bernard Preparatory School in Cullman and Holy Spirit Catholic High School in Tuscaloosa, where he served as the schools’ first administrator. His previous experience demonstrates his
passion for helping Catholic schools and the Catholic community. 

Margaret Dubose, superintendent of Catholic schools for the diocese, said, “Mr. Burke has a proven track record as a Catholic school leader in several dioceses, including the Diocese of Birmingham. Through those experiences, he brings a wealth of knowledge in Catholic school leadership to his role as president of St. John Paul II Catholic High School to continue the mission of supporting students to learn enthusiastically, lead honorably, and live responsibly.” She added, “His expertise in strategic planning, enrollment management, and fundraising will enhance the positive momentum already established at JPII, guiding the school effectively during this period of growth and leading critical initiatives such as the school's capital campaign.”

Burke holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Southern Benedictine College and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Dayton. He was chosen as one of only two high school presidents in the country to be awarded the Lead. Learn. Proclaim. Award from the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) in 2016 for his excellent leadership efforts, contributions, and achievements. With his proven and distinguished track record, Burke will be a tremendous asset to St. John Paul II Catholic High School.