Butler School District 53 names new superintendent

OAK BROOK — Heidi Wennstrom grew up in a large family, was constantly surrounded by children and and knew at an early age she had a passion for education.

"My first job right out of college was teaching second grade, confirming that education was what I knew and loved," Wennstrom said. "There is nothing greater in life than the opportunity to make a difference for children."

Wennstrom recently was appointed superintendent at Butler School District 53 and will assume the role July 1. The application process was not an easy road, though, as the School Board interviewed only seven candidates out of the 75 who applied.

Only two were named finalists. Wennstrom said she was excited to be selected.

"Butler is a wonderful school district," she said. "The families, staff and Board of Education are really focused on the pursuit of excellence in education."

Wennstrom praised the work done by current superintendent Sandra Martin, who will be retiring. Wennstrom said she felt fortunate to be awarded the superintendent position and one of her first goals is just getting to know everyone.

A "goal setter by nature," she said she also has a laundry list of personal goals. She wants to ensure children have a high quality of education, engage parents and staff as active partners in the education of children and work with the School Board to ensure transparency.

"The true work of educational improvement happens in collaborative, respectful learning environments," she said. "I love that my job is about supporting people to reach mutual goals to ensure the mission is achieved."

Wennstrom said she will face the challenge everyday to make District 53 stay at its high regard. She also wants to bring a 21st-century environment to the school to serve the students for the future. This includes technology improvements, improved learning environments and more curricular opportunities.

"It is easy to get off track in response to the ever changing political landscape of education," she said. "Our commitment to and daily pursuit of excellence, ensuring every child learns at the highest possible level, will ensure that students are well-prepared for the next level of learning and beyond."

Wennstrom currently serves as assistant superintendent for teaching and learning in North Shore District 112 and was formerly assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction in Antioch District 34.

Wennstrom said because of Butler's small size, it makes a perfect fit for her — one in which she can directly affect the lives of children.

"It's like being a parent," she said when describing her job. "There is nothing I won't do to ensure our children are successful."