As the new academic year approaches, Terri Bresnahan is immersed in preparations. On Tuesday afternoon, she was in meetings focused on welcoming students for their first day back. Her tasks include ensuring teachers have necessary resources, finishing summer projects, and confirming the cleanliness of school buildings. Students are set to return on August 26.
Bresnahan recently began her 31st year in public education and has stepped into the role of superintendent at Oak Park Elementary School District 97. This district comprises eight elementary schools and two middle schools, Brooks Middle School and Julian Middle School. Her four-year contract was approved in February and took effect on July 1. Her prior experience includes a superintendent position at Berkeley School District 87, where she served for 11 years.
She emphasizes pursuing equity in Oak Park, a community recognized for championing such values. “Being in a community like Oak Park, where commitment to ensuring all students succeed is evident, is important,” Bresnahan stated.
Cheree Moore, the School Board President, expressed confidence in Bresnahan’s leadership. “Dr. Bresnahan brings deep experience in leading diverse school communities with integrity and care. Her commitment to equity and student success aligns with our goals,” Moore said. She added that the board is optimistic about Bresnahan leading District 97 forward.
Bresnahan appreciates how Oak Park values its schools and promotes accessibility and community cooperation. This was a significant factor in her decision to join the district. Working in an environment that aligns with her values and goals was vital, especially given the scrutiny public education faces nationally.
Moore noted, “With the community-shaped profile, the board had a clear framework for evaluating candidates. Dr. Bresnahan consistently demonstrated the qualities that our stakeholders were seeking.”
Bresnahan’s passion for education traces back to her youth. Raised by a single mother who ensured they had essential resources, she benefited from programs like free lunch in her school system. “That experience influenced my career choice, driving me to open doors for future generations,” Bresnahan shared.
She is committed to enhancing school culture with initiatives like “responsive classrooms,” focusing on positive classroom management to encourage constructive behavior.
Though Bresnahan is getting acclimated to her new role, she is eager to understand areas of potential improvement. “Serving this district is an honor and privilege. I want people to know me not only as a superintendent but as someone committed to serving all students,” she said.
Although new to the district, Bresnahan is determined to impact the community and each student’s journey to eighth-grade graduation. Moore reinforced this by saying, “Our community seeks a leader who will be present, invested, and committed to Oak Park. Dr. Bresnahan embodies these attributes and is ready to build relationships while advancing existing initiatives.”