DES MOINES, Iowa — Longtime Des Moines School Board member and community leader Teree Caldwell-Johnson passed away Sunday morning after a "long battle with cancer", Des Moines Public Schools said in a press release.
Caldwell-Johnson was Des Moines' longest-serving school board member prior to her resignation in early March.
"Teree’s years of leadership and service, to our school district and the entire community, are a remarkable legacy and a great memory for us to celebrate and find comfort in at this time,” said Jackie Norris, chair of the Des Moines School Board, in a statement. “We have lost someone who was a trailblazer as well as a mentor to so many people, helping everyone around her become a better person in their work.”
Caldwell-Johnson joined the Des Moines School Board in 2006. During her tenure, she served as Chair and Vice Chair of the board.
“I have had the pleasure of working with several School Board members over the years, and Teree Caldwell-Johnson was in a class of her own,” said Dr. Ian Roberts, superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, in a statement. “Her dignity and grace combined with her determination and will has had a positive impact on countless lives. Des Moines Public Schools is a better place thanks to her nearly 18 years of service to our students, teachers and families.”
Beyond the school board, Caldwell-Johnson served as CEO of Oakridge Neighborhood and Oakridge Neighborhood Services. Under her leadership, she aided in the development of an accredited preschool, completed a total renovation of the neighborhood townhomes and built a new senior housing facility.
“She was tireless in her efforts to raise others to achieve their full potential,” said Dr. Andy McGuire, president of Oakridge Neighborhood’s Board of Directors, in a statement. “Her impact as the President and CEO of Oakridge Neighborhood for the last 20 years cannot be overstated.”
Caldwell-Johnson also served as Polk County Manager from 1996-2003. The Polk County Board of Supervisors issued a statement following her passing, writing in part, "Teree lived a life of mission and purpose serving as Chair of the Des Moines School Board, former Polk County Manager, an outspoken community activist and much more. She touched many lives and Polk County is forever grateful for her lifetime dedication of service to our community.”
Caldwell-Johnson is survived by her husband, Vernon, and their four children: Baley, Baxtyr, Vernon Jr. and William.