Terri Bresnahan Begins Role as Superintendent at Oak Park Elementary District

As the new academic year approaches, Terri Bresnahan prepares to welcome students back. Meetings, ensuring resources are ready, and finalizing summer projects are her focus ahead of the school year’s start on August 26. Bresnahan begins her 31st year in public education as the new superintendent of Oak Park Elementary School District 97. This district includes eight elementary schools, Brooks Middle School, and Julian Middle School.

Bresnahan’s contract, approved in February and effective July 1, brings her leadership experience from Berkeley School District 87 where she served as superintendent for 11 years. In Oak Park, her focus remains on equity, a strong value of the community. “Being in a community like Oak Park that provides resources while ensuring all students can achieve and access these resources is vital,” Bresnahan said.

School Board President Cheree Moore expressed confidence in Bresnahan’s leadership. “Dr. Bresnahan has deep experience leading diverse communities with integrity, care, and a firm commitment to equity and student success,” Moore stated. Bresnahan appreciated Oak Park’s commitment to communal values and schools, recognizing it as a community where she could advance her leadership work.

Amid national scrutiny of public education, Bresnahan values Oak Park’s alignment with her personal and professional principles. “The community’s involvement provided a clear framework for evaluating candidates,” Moore remarked. “Dr. Bresnahan consistently showcased the experience and judgment our stakeholders desired.”

Her dedication to education began in childhood. Raised by a single mother, Bresnahan experienced educational support systems firsthand, influencing her career choice. “That experience inspired me to help future generations and open doors for other students,” she explained.

Bresnahan plans to enhance school culture, starting with a “responsive classrooms” initiative aimed at improving classroom management and reinforcing positive behavior. As she settles in, her priority is to understand the district better and identify areas of improvement.

Bresnahan emphasized the importance of community engagement. “It’s an honor and privilege to serve this district. My goal is to connect with others so they know me as both a superintendent and a person committed to all students,” she noted. Her focus remains on making a positive impact on both the community and each student.

The community’s desire for a committed leader is clear. “We need someone present, invested, and committed,” Moore concluded. “Dr. Bresnahan is ready to listen, build relationships, and further existing initiatives in District 97.”