Hinsdale High School District 86’s new superintendent said he is hoping to “provide stability for years to come,” to a school district that has experienced much change at the top in recent years.
Within the past three years, Distinct 86 has experienced extensive turnover in administration, including seven people filling the role of superintendent, some of those on an interim basis. The district also has seen a large turnover in additional administrators, both at the district and school level.
“Yes, I’m aware there has been quite a bit of turnover in the superintendent position,” said Chip Pettit, the new top administrator, who was approved to the position Wednesday night by the District 86 board. “I don’t look at this as a short-term opportunity.”
Pettit, who was hired on a three-year contract beginning July 1, said he isn’t coming to District 86 with any agenda.
“I come with an open mind and a passion for doing what’s best for kids,” he said “I look forward to partnering with the staff and community in continuing to provide a world-class education for our students.
“I look forward to building relationships with faculty, staff, and the community as soon as possible. I’ll work to stay away from placing team members, or the community at-large, in win-lose propositions by taking the time to develop philosophical common ground and build consensus on key initiatives.”
Pettit said District 86’s long history of educational excellence was key in his interest to come.
“The well-established commitment from the community for students, teachers, and staff was certainly a highlight for me,” he said. “I look forward to embracing the traditions that are unique to the district, while seeking out new opportunities in the spirit of student achievement.”
Pettit will be coming to District 86 from Duneland School Corporation in northwest Indiana, where he has been superintendent since 2019. Along with a high school, that district consists of five elementary schools (grades K-4), two intermediate schools (grades 5-6), and two middle schools (grades 7-8).
“During his time at Duneland, Pettit 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.
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, according to information from District 86.
“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.
Brandon Kroft, president of the Duneland School Board, said in a statement to that community that he announced 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 runs through June 30, 2029. His salary for the 2026-2027 contract year of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, will be $300,000.
Pettit and his wife, Karen, have two children, one a recent college graduate and the other a college senior.
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
