New Superintendent For Darien District

DARIEN, IL — Darien School District 61 appointed a new superintendent Tuesday to replace the retiring Robert Carlo, according to a district news release. The board chose Robert Langman, assistant superintendent of teaching and learning for Glen Ellyn-based District 89. Both districts serve students kindergarten through eighth grade.

The board approved a three-year contract for Langman, who will make a salary of $170,000, according to the district. The contract starts July 1. Carlo, whose salary is $200,000, has been with the district since 2001, the last decade at its helm.

Langman has been working in schools for 19 years. Before becoming an assistant superintendent in Glen Ellyn, he was a teacher in District 89, an elementary school principal in West Chicago's Benjamin School District and an elementary principal and director of instructional technology in the Addision School District.

Langman has a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Elmhurst College, a master's degree in school leadership from Concordia University and a doctorate in educational administration from Aurora University.

Last January, the school board hired an executive search firm for the superintendent's position. The search began with an online survey, followed by opportunities for residents and board members to provide input on what they would like to see in a new superintendent. Six candidates were recommended for interviews, which were held in November and December.

Langman is moving to a district considerably smaller than District 89. According to 2019 state figures, Darien's enrollment was 1,463, compared to District 89's 2,269. Darien has double the percentage of students who come from low-income families — 38 percent to District 89's 19 percent, according to state statistics.

Langman said he would work to ensure all children have the best learning conditions to reach their full potential.

"Over the next few months, I look forward to meeting and learning from everyone as I transition into the position," Langman said in a statement.