SPRINGFIELD—Dr. Michael Oberhaus, retired superintendent of Rock Island-Milan SD #41, has been named the 2019 Superintendent of Distinction by his colleagues in the Blackhawk Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA).
Dr. Oberhaus was honored at an awards luncheon May 9 in Springfield. State Superintendent Dr. Carmen Ayala was the featured speaker, where 21 IASA regional Superintendents of Distinction were recognized. “I am humbled and honored to be recognized by my colleagues,” said Oberhaus, who has been an educator for 37 years, including the last nine as Superintendent of Rock Island-Milan SD #41. “I have been blessed to have the opportunity to be a partner with many dedicated, experienced and passionate leaders, teachers, board members, students, parents and community members, who have been supportive in increasing opportunities for every student to be successful.”
Those nominating Oberhaus noted a number of successes during his tenure including:
- Implemented a balanced calendar. · Led the district through the passage of a 1 percent county-wide sales tax increase.
- Increased dual credit and Advanced Placement offerings with increased enrollment from underrepresented student subgroups.
- Started an AVID program in high school and junior high, as well as a Learn Enrich and Discover (LEAD) program in two elementary schools.
- Facilitated a regional approach to improving education through collaboration with United Way and local business community.
- Built a community collaborative-based set of programs to serve students before and after school.
“Each Superintendent of Distinction was nominated by peers in their regions based on their commitment, dedication and leadership,” said IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark. “These extraordinary individuals truly provide exceptional leadership that elevates the success of students in their districts and are difference makers in their communities.”
The fifth annual luncheon was again sponsored by Horace Mann, one of the nation’s largest insurers focusing on the needs of educators. “We are proud to recognize these Superintendents of Distinction who are creative, dedicated, inspiring, and consistently create strong learning environments in their districts,” said Marita Zuraitis, Horace Mann President and Chief Executive Officer.
Oberhaus and his wife have two adult children and a grandchild.
The Blackhawk Region is comprised of Rock Island, Mercer and Henry counties.
