Superintendent Mike Beresford urges Carmel voters to research candidates ahead of school board election

Superintendent Mike Beresford told residents in a recorded webinar that Carmel Clay Schools’ five-member board makes policy, hires and evaluates the superintendent, approves the budget and sets strategic goals — and that those decisions directly affect students, staff and district finances.

Beresford, who identified himself at the start of the presentation, said the board consists of five members (three district representatives and two at-large seats), explained that three votes are needed to carry most measures, and urged voters to "research, research, research" before casting ballots in the November school board election.

Why it matters: School board decisions determine district policy, funding allocations and leadership appointments. Beresford said those choices affect day-to-day operations and learning conditions, and he framed the upcoming election as consequential for families and educators.

Beresford described three primary board responsibilities: hiring and supervising the superintendent, setting board policy (administration implements policy), and approving the local budget. He announced that the board completed a succession plan following his retirement announcement and named Dr. Tom Oestreich, currently assistant superintendent for student services and human resources, as the incoming superintendent.

On finances and transparency, Beresford said the district posts spending information and is audited annually. He responded to misinformation circulating during a recent referendum — including a rumor that the district was "hiding $4,000,000" and an assertion about a "$200,000 automobile allowance" for the superintendent — calling those claims false and directing listeners to the district’s transparency dashboard and published financial reports.

On evaluating candidates, Beresford recommended voters examine candidates’ recent, relevant experience; who is funding or endorsing them (including political action committees); and the motivations of endorsers. He warned that campaign spending in school board races has grown—he cited examples of some PACs aiming for $100,000–$150,000 and smaller groups raising around $10,000—and that more money increases reach via mailers, social posts and advertising.

Beresford encouraged attendance at a candidate event on Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. at the Palladium, described as a moderated debate hosted by Current in Carmel; he said tickets are free but required and that questions may be submitted to news@CurrentinCarmel.com.

Voter logistics and takeaways: Beresford urged residents to register to vote (registration closes Oct. 7, as he noted), pointed to vote.gov for registration information, reminded viewers that early voting begins Oct. 23 at some county locations, and said Election Day is Nov. 5. He closed with a longtime classroom refrain: "The choices you make today shape your world tomorrow."

The webinar included time for Q&A; Beresford checked for questions at the end, saw few and signed off.