As the new academic year approaches, Terri Bresnahan was busy on Tuesday preparing to welcome students for their first day. Her tasks include ensuring that teachers have necessary resources, summer projects are completed, and buildings are clean for the start on Aug. 26. Bresnahan began her 31st year in public education recently, now serving as the superintendent at Oak Park Elementary School District 97. This district includes eight elementary schools, Brooks Middle School, and Julian Middle School.
Her four-year contract, approved in February, started on July 1. Bresnahan previously worked as a superintendent in Berkeley School District 87 for 11 years. She is committed to promoting equity in Oak Park, a community she describes as a champion for equity. “Being in a community like Oak Park, which provides resources and ensures all students have access, is crucial,” Bresnahan stated.
School Board President Cheree Moore praised Bresnahan as she begins her new role, stating, “Dr. Bresnahan brings extensive experience in leading diverse communities with integrity and care, alongside a strong commitment to equity and student success. The board believes she is the ideal leader for District 97’s future.”
Bresnahan expressed her appreciation for Oak Park’s dedication to ensuring everyone has access and collaborating as a community. “This commitment attracted me to Oak Park, allowing me to pursue leadership effectively,” she said. At a time when public education faces national scrutiny, Bresnahan sought a community aligning with her values, leading her to Oak Park.
Moore mentioned, “Our community-defined profile provided a clear framework for evaluating candidates. Dr. Bresnahan consistently displayed the judgment and student-centered leadership that our stakeholders wanted.” Bresnahan’s passion for education began in her childhood. Raised by a single mother who worked diligently, Bresnahan benefited from school services like free lunch programs. “These experiences inspired me to give back and open doors for future generations,” she explained.
Bresnahan also aims to enhance school culture, initiating a “responsive classrooms” strategy to foster positive classroom management and behavior reinforcement. As she acclimates to her role, she seeks to understand the district’s needs and potential improvements. “It’s an honor to serve here. I hope to be known not only as a superintendent but as someone committed to all students in this community,” she said.
Although new to the district, Bresnahan is eager to make an impact on the community and students. Moore stressed the community’s desire for a present, invested leader, commenting, “Dr. Bresnahan brings the experience to listen, build relationships, and strengthen the existing efforts in District 97.”