Mindy Bradford will join the Community Consolidated Elementary District 181 administrative team July 1 as the new assistant superintendent of business and operations. She is replacing Rick Engstrom, who resigned to join the staff at Plainfield Community Consolidated District 202.
Bradford currently is the director of finance and operations in Libertyville School District 70.
"Mrs. Bradford brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this position, and we are confident she will be a strong leader and contributor to our financial and operations efforts," Superintendent Hector Garcia said. "We were impressed by her financial background, experiences and enthusiasm for working with people to ensure student success."
In District 70, Bradford oversaw budget and financial planning along with operations of the schools and district office, construction projects, food service and transportation. Before working in Libertyville, she was the executive director of finance and operations in Yorkville Community Unit School District 115. She also has 25 years of experience in public accounting, internal auditing, budgeting, reporting, variance analysis, risk management and facilities management.
"The board agrees with Dr. Garcia's recommendation and are confident that Mrs. Bradford will bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to her new role," board President Mike Martin said. "The board is excited to have someone with her level of expertise and background join our district."
Bradford has a master's in business administration from Northwestern University; a master's in leadership, education, psychology and foundation from Northern Illinois University; and a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Dayton. She is a licensed chief school business official.
"I am beyond excited to join D181 and be part of a team committed to providing a premier educational experience for our students," Bradford said. "I look forward to working with our staff, students and community to ensure our district continues providing quality education and services."
The board approved a three-year contract May 25 for Bradford with a base salary the first year of $186,500.
