Is New Hinsdale D86 Leader Arriving Early?

HINSDALE, IL – Hinsdale High School District 86's incoming superintendent is leaving his Indiana job earlier than expected.

This likely means Chip Pettit is coming to Hinsdale before his July 1 start date.

On Thursday night, the school board is voting on a "retirement agreement" for Superintendent Michael Lach, whose district role was sharply limited in February.

Pettit now works as the superintendent for northwest Indiana's Duneland School Corporation, a public district.

Three weeks ago, the Duneland board voted on an agreement to end Pettit's contract June 3, rather than July 1, according to a Chicago Tribune story. According to the newspaper, Pettit said he would start in Hinsdale on June 4, which is next Thursday.

Whether this means that Lach will leave earlier is unclear.

District 86's board president, Catherine Greenspon, has not returned Patch's message from two days ago.

Asked about the situation early Thursday, the district's spokesperson, Alex Mayster, referred questions to Greenspon.

Lach works remotely four days a week and has limited duties, according to the district.

Last August, Lach announced he would retire June 30, a year early under a three-year contract.

Under an agreement with District 86, Pettit can work on certain issues before he arrives July 1. He makes $1,267 a day.