Incoming 'Data-Driven' Hinsdale D86 Official Meets Public

HINSDALE, IL – Hinsdale High School District 86's incoming superintendent met with the public before Thursday's school board meeting.

Meanwhile, the board selected a second interim superintendent to replace one who left last month.

During the meeting, board members praised Lach, who they approved the night before. (Member Jeff Waters was the lone dissenter on Lach, saying he wanted someone with experience as a superintendent.)

"The thing I was most impressed about in speaking with Dr. Lach was that he is data-driven and analytical," said member Peggy James, who was connected to the meeting remotely. "Those are two characteristics that are very near and dear to my heart."

Lach is expected to start his new job July 1. Until then, he will continue working his job as assistant superintendent of curriculum at Highland Park-based Township School District 113.

Meanwhile, the board unanimously voted for Rebecca Nelson as the second interim superintendent. The other one is Raymond Lechner.

Lechner told the board that he has worked with Nelson in two other interim superintendent arrangements.

"I think it will be a good combination," Lechner said. "You will be well served."

Nelson was the dean of education at Chicago-based North Park University, a private Christian school, from 2008 to 2021.

Lechner and Nelson receive $1,300 a day.

Nelson is replacing Linda Yonke, who resigned with five days' notice last month. Yonke and Lechner were selected as interim superintendents in July.

The board ousted the previous superintendent, Tammy Prentiss.