Hinsdale Township High School District 86 didn’t have to go very far to find a new assistant superintendent of curriculum, instruction and assessment.
District 86 officials recently approved the hiring of Josh McMahon, who currently lives with his family in District 86 and works as assistant superintendent for educational programs at Morton High School District 201 in Berwyn and Cicero.
McMahon has more than 20 years of experience in education and oversees curriculum, assessment and instructional programming in District 201.
His appointment comes a few months after the District 86 board approved the hiring of a new superintendent, Chip Petit. Both Petit and McMahon both officially start work July 1 in District 86.
“McMahon’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for District 86, as incoming Superintendent Dr. Chip Pettit continues to position the district to move forward with a newly aligned leadership team,” said Alex Mayster, District 86’s executive director of communication.
Petit gave McMahon a strong endorsement.
“Dr. McMahon is an outstanding leader with a proven track record of success,” he said. “I look forward to him working collaboratively with teachers, staff, and the community in support of the great work already happening in District 86.”
Board President Catherine Greenspon said the hiring of McMahon reflects the district’s continued tradition of excellence.
“District 86 has a long-standing tradition of excellence, and attracting high-quality leaders like Dr. Josh McMahon is essential to building upon that success,” she said. “His experience, leadership, and connection to the community will ensure that we continue to meet each student where they are to support and prepare them for their ideal future.”
McMahon’s resume in education includes working as a teacher, coach, dean, activities director, assistant principal and principal.
He said the chance to serve District 86 is both a professional and personal honor for him.
“I am honored to contribute to the district’s tradition of excellence in partnership with our educators and families,” he said.
McMahon earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, a master’s degree in school leadership from Concordia University Chicago, and a doctorate in school leadership from National Louis University.
McMahon is taking a position that previously was held by Assistant Superintendent of Academics Jason Markey, who left in 2025 after two years in District 86 to become the assistant superintendent for Lisle School District 202.
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
