Hinsdale South Principal Leaving For Another Job

DARIEN, IL – Hinsdale South High School's principal is expected to leave after this school year.

On Tuesday night, the school board for Algonquin-based School District 300 voted to hire South Principal Patrick Hardy as the new principal of Hampshire High School in Hampshire, which is in Kane County. His first day is July 1.

Nearly 1,900 students are enrolled at Hampshire, compared with about 1,300 at Hinsdale South.

After nearly 11 years at the helm, Hampshire's current principal, Brett Bending, makes $203,000, according to public records. Hardy's salary at Hinsdale South is $176,000.

Hardy, who has his doctorate, became Hinsdale South's principal in July 2022. He has also served as principal of Freeport High School in Freeport, Auburn High School in Rockford and Proviso East High School in Maywood.

Hardy declined to comment on his status as South's principal when Patch reached him Monday.

Hardy follows several District 86 officials who have left the district in recent months. Among them are interim Superintendent Linda Yonke, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Cheryl Moore, Communications Director Chris Jasculca, and school board members Kay Gallo and Debbie Levinthal.

In February, it was revealed that Eric Martzolf, an assistant principal at South, was leaving to become principal of Lisle High School.

Last June, the District 86 board ousted Superintendent Tammy Prentiss. In January, the board voted for a new superintendent, Michael Lach, who is set to start in July.

On Wednesday, the district issued a statement acknowledging Hardy's pending departure. It said the principal announced his resignation to the South community earlier that morning.

"We thank Dr. Hardy for his service and dedication to our students and staff, and wish him well in his new journey. He has made a significant and positive impact at Hinsdale South," the district said. "From amplifying student voice to his community engagement efforts, South is stronger thanks to his leadership."

The statement continued, "We appreciate having Dr. Hardy with us through the conclusion of the school year on June 30, 2024. As he shared in his notes to staff and families, Dr. Hardy fully intends to 'ensure our remaining tasks are completed with fidelity and excellence.'"