Community Consolidated Elementary District 181 and Hinsdale High School District 86 have hired new assistant superintendents who are scheduled to begin work July 1.
Erica Ekstrom will be the new assistant superintendent of student services in District 181.
Superintendent Hector Garcia said Ekstrom brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the crucial role, having served in various educational capacities throughout her distinguished career.
“Ms. Ekstrom’s proven track record of leading and developing successful programs for students of all backgrounds makes her an ideal candidate for this position,” he commented. “We are confident that her expertise in areas such as special education, multi-tiered systems of support and educational policy will be instrumental in ensuring the continued success of our student services department.”
In her most recent role as executive director of special education at Community Unit District 200 in Wheaton-Warrenville, Ekstrom oversaw a comprehensive special education program, driving positive outcomes for students with disabilities. Her prior experience includes serving as executive director of student services, principal and adjunct professor. She also has extensive experience as a classroom teacher and leading district-wide initiatives.
Ekstrom holds a master’s degree in education in leadership and special education.
“I am honored to be selected as the new assistant superintendent of student services for District 181,” Ekstrom said. “I am committed to working collaboratively with the board of education, administration, staff, parents and community to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in a supportive learning environment for all students.”
Jodi Bryant is the new assistant superintendent of human resources in District 86.
Bryant joins the district from Homewood-Flossmoor Community High School District 233, where she has served as the director of human resources since 2011. Throughout her career at Homewood-Flossmoor, she has held various roles including director of public relations, assistant principal, dean of students and teacher.
“Jodi’s diverse background as an educator and administrator uniquely equips her to lead our human resources initiatives with vision and empathy,” incoming Superintendent Michael Lach said. “We are excited to be adding an experienced leader to our team as we continue to strive to make District 86 the best school district in the state of Illinois.”
Bryant holds master’s degrees in Leadership & Administration, and Curriculum & Instruction, reflecting her comprehensive understanding of both the administrative and educational aspects of school operations. She is also an active member of the American Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA), the Illinois Association of School Personnel Administrators (IASPA), and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), underscoring her commitment to professional development and excellence in human resources.
“I am honored to join Hinsdale School District 86 as we foster an environment where students are empowered, staff are fully supported, and collaboration is at the heart of our success,” Bryant said. “I look forward to working with the District 86 school community to create an even brighter future for students and staff.”
In her new role, Bryant will oversee the human capital management of the school district to ensure that District 86 recruits, supports, and maintains a high quality workforce that can deliver results and manage ongoing change, while meeting the diverse needs of students, families, and the community.
