Melody Golden: Co-President

I’m Melody Golden, Co-President of the Oak Terrace PTO and a former teacher. My daughter, Aliyah, is in first grade at Oak Terrace, and my son, Ezra, is in Early Childhood. I’m passionate about building a welcoming school community and supporting our teachers and families.

oakterracepto@gmail.com

Katie Marecek: Co-President

Hello, my name is Katie Marecek and I am one of your Oak Terrace PTO Co-Presidents.  My husband, Scott, and I have lived in Highwood since the pandemic.  We have two daughters, Molly (a 2nd grader) and Chloe (who is three years old).  I have a background in teaching and HR and I jumped at the chance to get involved with the school community, after it so warmly welcomed my family last year.  I love crafts, reading, and am currently working on my Spanish.  I look forward to meeting more of you as I find new ways to help and support your families, our teachers, and our administrators!

oakterracepto@gmail.com

Anita Koenitz-Hudac: Co-Vice President

Hi! I am Anita Koenitz-Hudac and I am excited to serve as your co-Vice President and Room Parent Liaison for Oak Terrace PTO. I have two boys at Oak Terrace - Milo, a 2nd grader and Charles, who is in 4th grade. I also have a “little Monarch” at home, Dorothy, who was just born in January 2026. 

Our family has lived in Highwood since for over a decade, and we love being a part of this community. 

I am looking forward to helping strengthen the connection between our school and the wider community through the work of the PTO. Let’s make it a great year together!

oakterracepto@gmail.com

Valentina Rodino: Co Vice-President

Hello, Monarchs! My name is Valentina Rodino, and I am your co-Vice President for Oak Terrace’s PTO. I have a son, Luca, who is in 4th grade, and a daughter, Nora, who is in 1st grade. Highwood is a city near and dear to my heart, as my family has deep roots here, and I’m carrying on that love through my own family. Being in education myself, I understand the importance of building a community at a school, and as a parent, I am committed to contributing to a community that supports all the wonderful students, staff and faculty at Oak Terrace. I’m looking forward to an exciting and fun year ahead!  

oakterracepto@gmail.com

Jai Shah: Treasurer

Hola OT Monarchs! My name is Jai Shah, and I’m the father of 5th grader Vivek Shah. We also have a 9th grader at HPHS. It's my last year as Treasurer. I’ve been involved with the PTO in the capacity of Co-chair of the Fun Fair for the past four years, as well as the Parents Backyard Bash. I look forward to meeting many more of you and giving back to this wonderful community!

Bev Terranova: Secretary

Hi OT Monarchs!  I’m Bev Terranova and have been an Oak Terrace parent since 2016 and the PTO secretary since 2017!  I have two older daughters at Northwood and HPHS and a third grade daughter at Oak Terrace.  Having been a part of Oak Terrace for so long, I have seen a lot of change but one thing stays the same; the loving and accepting sense of belonging and community that my family and I always feel being a part of this school.  It truly is a special place! Looking forward to a great year and can’t wait to meet you!