CARMEL, Ind. — The Superintendent of Carmel Clay Schools has announced his retirement.
According to the school district's website, Dr. Michael Beresford will retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year. Beresford has worked for the district for the last six years.
Next year will be Beresford's 43rd working in education. The district's website indicates 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 incredible students of Carmel Clay Schools," Beresford wrote in a statement posted on the district's site. "It's been an honor to be part of this amazing team."
The Carmel Clay School Board of Trustees wasted little time appointing Beresford's successor. Dr. Thomas Oestreich — who is currently the Assistant Superintendent of Staff and Student Services at Carmel Clay Schools — will take over for Beresford in July 2025.
The district reported that Oestreich will maintain his current duties next year while working closely with Beresford to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.
"Dr. Oestreich’s proven leadership and enthusiasm for this district is indisputable," Carmel Clay School Board of Trustees President Kristin Kouka wrote in a statement on the district's website. "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,” board member Katie Browning wrote in a statement. “We saw the opportunity to prepare rather than respond, ensuring a smooth transition over the next year.”
Per Carmel Clay Schools, Oestreich has been working in education for 25 years. His first job opportunity in the profession was at Carmel Clay Schools, where he was a student-teacher.
Oestreich earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Butler University. He furthered his schooling by getting a Master's degree in Education and School Administration and a Doctorate in Education.
Oestreich has previously served as a middle school orchestra teacher in Washington Township, an assistant principal at North Central High School, a principal at Lawrence Central and an assistant superintendent at Washington Township.
"The CTA (Carmel Teachers' Association) is excited to hear the announcement that Dr. Oestreich will be our next superintendent," CTA President Mark Wien wrote in a statement on the district's website. "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!"
More information about Beresford's retirement and Oestreich's appointment is available here.