During a special meeting Aug. 18, the District 97 Board of Education approved the appointment of Dr. Griff Powell and Dr. Patricia Wernet as co-interim superintendents for the 2025-26 school year, effective Sept. 15, 2025.
Both Powell and Wernet are distinguished and experienced leaders who previously served in these roles in District 97 during the 2021–22 school year. During that time, they navigated a number of critical challenges—including leading our safe and smooth reopening of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic—and remain deeply familiar with the Oak Park community and our staff.
During the same meeting, the board also formally accepted the resignation of Superintendent Ushma Shah. Her last day with the district was Aug. 15, 2025.
To ensure continuity of leadership, the board appointed Patrick Robinson, the district’s assistant superintendent of elementary schools, as acting superintendent, effective immediately. In this capacity, Robinson will oversee the district’s day-to-day operations, support staff, and ensure continuation of district initiatives and priorities until Powell and Wernet officially assume their roles.
Having served in District 97 for the past seven years, Robinson has deep knowledge of the district and strong relationships with staff and students. He has been the assistant superintendent of elementary schools since 2023 and previously served five years as the principal of Whittier Elementary School.
“We are excited to welcome back Dr. Powell and Dr. Wernet, who bring both deep experience and a strong connection to Oak Park,” said Cheree Moore, president of the District 97 Board of Education. “Alongside our dedicated administrative team, they will help guide the district with stability and care. We are also grateful for Mr. Robinson’s steady leadership during this transition. With this team in place, we are confident District 97 will continue moving forward for our students, staff, and families.”
About Griff Powell and Patricia Wernet
Dr. Griff Powell and Dr. Patricia Wernet bring decades of combined experience in public education, including service as teachers, principals, district leaders, and superintendents. They previously served together as District 97’s co-interim superintendents in 2021–22, navigating complex challenges such as the district’s safe reopening of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, they are known for their collaborative leadership, their focus on supporting staff, and their commitment to keeping students at the center of every decision.
Because the Illinois Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS) limits the number of days a retired superintendent can work each school year, Dr. Powell and Dr. Wernet will divide responsibilities and workdays as needed—a common practice among interim superintendents. A schedule will be established once both are able to meet with the board and the district’s administrative staff.