Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Beresford announces retirement & succession plan

Submitted by Carmel Clay Schools

Dr. Michael Beresford has announced his retirement as Superintendent of Carmel Clay Schools (CCS) effective at the end of the 2024-2025 school year.

Dr. Beresford has served the CCS community with dedication and distinction for the past six years, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students, families, and staff members.

Entering his 43rd year of education, Dr. Beresford has been instrumental in advancing academic excellence, fostering a safe and inclusive school environment, implementing innovative educational programs, updating facilities, and adding supports to enrich the learning experience for students and families across the district.

“I will always cherish the time I have had here in CCS working alongside the talented educators, dedicated staff, supportive families, and the incredible students of Carmel Clay Schools,” Dr. Beresford said. “It’s been an honor to be a part of this amazing team.”

Seamless leadership for continued success

Following the notice of Dr. Beresford’s planned retirement, the CCS Board of Trustees exemplified a forward-thinking approach to executing one of its most significant responsibilities – selecting the next Superintendent of Schools. Board members developed a plan to ensure continuity in leadership and maintain the exceptional standards expected in the Carmel community.

Like a CEO managing a team of 2,400 employees across 18 buildings, the board recognized the importance of implementing a succession plan to allow for a prepared, purposeful handoff to the next leader of CCS.

Dr. Thomas Oestreich, the current Assistant Superintendent of Staff and Student Services, has been selected for this role, continuing his dedicated service to CCS students and staff. Dr. Oestreich will maintain his current duties while working closely with Dr. Beresford over the next year before assuming the role of Superintendent in July 2025.

Following multiple interviews with Dr. Oestreich, the board is proud to promote the perfect internal candidate. Dr. Oestreich is eager to build upon the success of the district. With an established track record of excellence and a strong vision for the future, Dr. Oestreich is poised to take CCS to new heights.

“Dr. Oestreich’s proven leadership and enthusiasm for this district is indisputable,” Board President Kristin Kouka said. “We are confident his institutional understanding and established relationships with staff make Dr. Oestreich the perfect next leader to uphold our tradition of excellence.”

“With Dr. Beresford’s announcement, we are able to plan for the upcoming change in leadership, rather than having to fill a vacancy,” remarked board member Katie Browning, who helped lead the selection process. “We saw the opportunity to prepare rather than respond, ensuring a smooth transition over the next year.”

Expertise in education & school administration

Dr. Oestreich brings 25 years of experience in education, starting with his first position as a student teacher in CCS. His commitment to academic excellence, student well-being, staff development, and collaborative leadership makes him uniquely qualified to be the next superintendent.

“The CTA (Carmel Teachers’ Association) is excited to hear the announcement that Dr. Oestreich will be our next superintendent,” CTA President Mark Wien said. “Dr. Oestreich has always been open and honest in his communication with the CTA, and we have worked together on hundreds of occasions to benefit teachers. CCS is in great hands moving forward!”

Dr. Oestreich earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Butler University, followed by a master’s degree in Education and School Administration and a Doctorate in Education from Indiana University. A passionate and professional cello player, Dr. Oestreich began his career as a middle school orchestra teacher in Washington Township (Marion County). His leadership skills quickly propelled him into administration, where he first served as assistant principal before moving to North Central High School in the same capacity.

He led as principal at Lawrence Central before his career growth led him back to Washington Township, most recently as Assistant Superintendent, before joining Carmel Clay Schools in January 2020. He currently oversees staff and student services, collaborating extensively with every department and building. He co-leads the implementation of new teacher evaluations and facilitates all aspects of staff recruiting and training. In his role, Dr. Oestreich works closely with the teams in curriculum, safety, business, and transportation.

Additionally, Dr. Oestreich has served as acting superintendent as needed. In this capacity, he has worked directly with school board members to conduct district business.

2024-2025: Love Where You Lead

This year’s theme, “Love Where You Lead,” embodies Dr. Beresford’s philosophy of cherishing your team.

“I believe the most important part of leadership is to genuinely care for the people on your team and believe wholeheartedly in our collective mission,” he said. “When you lead with love and conviction, the path forward becomes clear and success takes care of itself in many ways.”

Dr. Beresford, a former track and cross country athlete, approaches this year with the same determination as the final laps of a distance race.

“It’s been an amazing marathon of a career,” he reflects.

Dr. Beresford’s passion and dedication to the community have been unwavering, and he is committed to making this year as significant as all others in his illustrious career.

“There are always hurdles to clear and hills to climb, but other times it’s downhill and you have time to rest, recover, and enjoy the ride,” he said. “I am proud of this team and the things we have accomplished in the past six years for the students and families we love and serve. It’s now time to finish my last mile and hand off the baton. I look forward to an amazing 2024-2025 school year.”

Click here to watch Dr. Beresford’s video message.