The assistant superintendent of business and operations from Plainfield Unit District 202 has been chosen to replace the retiring assistant superintendent of business and operations / chief school business official in Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills Elementary District 181.
Rich Engstromwill start working in District 181 July 1 after being chosen from a field of nine candidates who were interviewed by district officials after the original field was narrowed by search firm BWP Associates.
Engstrom’s annual salary will be $171,000 in taking over for Mohsin Dada, who is retiring after three years in District 181. Engstrom’s current base salary in Plainfield is $140,940, according to information from the district’s website.
“Mr. Engstrom’s skills and leadership qualities will be a major asset to our district,” said District 181 Superintendent Hector Garcia
Board President Magaret Kleber said she was impressed with Engstrom’s credentials.
“We’re very happy to see such a strong candidate join our administrative team,” Kleber said. “His experience and certifications are reflective of what a premier district like 181 needs.”
Engstrom was director of finance for District 202 before being named assistant superintendent of business and operations. Prior to his six years at District 202, Engstrom was chief school business official at Big Hollow Elementary District 38 in Ingleside and a fifth-grade teacher and union president at Channahon Elementary District 17.
“I look forward to serving the students, families and employees of District 181,” Engstrom said in a statement. “It’s a privilege to be joining such a standout administrative team and carry on the legacy of Mr. Dada’s strong financial management.”
Engstrom is a member of the National, Illinois, and Will County Associations of School Business Officials. In his previous districts, he helped to improve financial profile scores and Moody’s Bond Ratings. He’s also received several awards, including a nomination for a Golden Apple Award and Who’s Who in North American Education.
Garcia praised the work done by the retiring Dada.
“Mr. Dada has been instrumental for the continued sound financial state of our district,” he said. “We will certainly miss him, personally and professionally.”