Hinsdale Central Principal Plans to Step Down at End of School Year

Mark Kolkman has made the decision to leave the Hinsdale Central school district at the end of this school year after serving as principal of Hinsdale Central High School for two years.

Kolkman declared his resignation through a letter to members of the community Thursday saying he was resigning when his contract was up in June, School Board President Kay Gallo said.

"It is with much thought and reflection over the past few months that my family and I have come to this decision," the letter states. "I am truly honored to have served the Hinsdale Central High School community for the past two years."

Kolkman thanked the parents for the role each plays "in the fabric of our community and the support of our school."

"I am extremely proud of each and every student, the dedication and professionalism consistently displayed by our staff and the level of support we provide our students every day," the letter states.

Kolkman said he announced his resignation at this time to give the superintendent and School Board time to decide how to choose his successor.

He did not state what his plans are when he leaves Central, but said, he is eager to support his successor during the time of transition.

Before working at Neuqua Valley, Kolkman was an assistant principal for one year at Glenbard East after four years as the school's athletic director. He's also been a teacher, coach and assistant athletic director at Naperville Central, and a teacher at at Herscher High School in Herscher, IL.