The Hinsdale High School District 86 Board was slated to vote Wednesday on the approval of a new superintendent to replace Michael Lach, who is retiring.
With the expected board approval, Jack “Chip” Pettit will become the district’s next superintendent, effective July 1.
Pettit has served since 2019 as superintendent of Duneland School Corporation in northwest Indiana. That school district consists of five elementary schools (grades K-4), two intermediate schools (grades 5-6), two middle schools (grades 7-8) and a high school (grades 9-12).
“During his time at Duneland, Pettit has significantly improved student performance, implemented a large capital improvement plan, and led two cycles of strategic planning, among other things,” the District 86 board said in a statement.
Information from District 86 also stated that Petitt has received many awards for his leadership as a high school principal, published author, and as a superintendent, including recognition as the 2026 Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents District 1 Superintendent of the Year.
“Dr. Pettit believes in strong relationships, collaboration, and will implement a clear vision to build upon D86’s tradition of excellence for all students,” the District 86 Board said. “We are looking forward to taking action on Dr. Pettit’s contract next week and will continue to support our students, families, educators, and staff through this transition.”
Brandon Kroft, president of the Duneland School Board, said in a statement to that community that he was announcing Petitt’s leaving with “much sadness,” and that his accomplishments were many.
“During this time, Duneland student performance continues to be the leader in Northwest Indiana and amongst the highest in the state of Indiana,” Kroft wrote in his statement.
Petitt’s District 86 contract is for three years, running through June 30, 2029. His salary for the 2026-2027 contract year of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, will be $300,000.
The annual salary for each of the remaining contract years will include an increase of no less than the Consumer Price Index increase identified in the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability’s certification of the minimum salary rate for the applicable contract year over the superintendent’s annual salary in the immediately prior contract year.
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
