Alerts Sign-up
The Manhattan School Board of Education has approved Dr. Damien Aherne as the new Superintendent for Manhattan School District 114. The decision follows a comprehensive search process led by consultant Cathie Pezanoski, who utilized a stakeholder-developed superintendent profile to guide the selection.
A survey was conducted to gather input from the school community, which informed the development of a profile outlining necessary qualities and expertise for the role. Ms. Pezanoski then carried out an extensive search, presenting a group of strong candidates to the board. After several interview rounds involving board members, administrators, and union leaders, Dr. Aherne was unanimously chosen as possessing the essential qualifications to lead the district forward. He will assume his new position on July 1, 2025.
Dr. Aherne brings over two decades of experience in public education, having worked as a teacher, administrator, adjunct professor, and principal. His academic credentials include advanced degrees in Educational Administration, Leadership, and Music with endorsements in Illinois as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and Chief School Business Official (CSBO).
In his recent role as principal over the past 12 years at two elementary schools, Dr. Aherne focused on building staff morale and enhancing safety protocols while reducing student discipline issues and aligning curriculum efforts. He also implemented Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), provided staff development opportunities, and achieved Commendable Summative Designations consistently.
At the district level, he has been involved in facility improvements and various administrative tasks such as board policy formulation, budgeting processes including Levy development and five-year financial projections; enrollment management; leading state and local assessments; along with contract negotiations.
Dr. Aherne is dedicated to professional growth within education circles through serving on boards like that of Illinois Principals Association (IPA) where he acts as State Director for South Cook Region emphasizing safe nurturing environments tailored towards each child's unique needs.
Currently residing in Frankfort with his wife Marisa along their three children Evan Niamh Gracelyn—Dr.Aherne serves Fierke Education Center CCSD146 Oak Forest IL Principal capacity
