Assistant School Superintendent Robert McDermott is in line for a substantial raise when he becomes superintendent of the Duneland School Corporation.
The Duneland School Board held a brief public hearing Thursday on the proposed contract for McDermott. They will meet again next Thursday for a final vote.
McDermott is being offered a three-year contract that starts July 1 and runs through June 30, 2029, with an initial salary of $210,000.
However, if McDermott moves within the Duneland School Corporation, his salary will bump up to $220,000.
McDermott said he is planning to move to Chesterton this spring from St. John.
As assistant superintendent, McDermott was paid $154,121 according to the most recent public records, available from 2024.
The proposed contract also includes provisions for the board to offer up to five one-year extensions. The benefits include a $750 monthly allowance for a vehicle.
The school board announced McDermott’s promotion on Feb. 18.
Superintendent Chip Pettit revealed on Jan. 29 that he was taking a superintendent’s position with Hinsdale Township High School District 86 in the Chicago suburbs, once his Duneland contract expires June 30.
In 2019, McDermott came with Pettit from the Crown Point Community School Corporation to the Duneland School Corporation.
School Board President Brandon Kroft has cited McDermott’s experience and familiarity with Duneland as reasons why he was chosen for the top job.
Jim Woods is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
