Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke has one request for District 181 families before 3,500 students walk through school doors Thursday: put the devices away and talk to your kids.
In his first back-to-school letter to the D181 community, published Monday, Aug. 17, Wipke introduced what he calls "The D181 Experience," a framework built on four pillars: innovative instruction, strong relationships, high expectations and a supportive community culture.
The letter's most memorable section centers on car rides to soccer practice.
"Some of our best conversations happened during car rides to soccer practice or at the dinner table with devices put away," Wipke wrote. "Creating those quiet moments to check in, ask questions, and listen fully made all the difference."
Wipke drew on his own parenting to urge D181 families to sit down with their children before the first day and set goals together. He described how he and his wife talked through academic and personal growth targets with their own kids every August: showing kindness, being a reliable friend, building resilience and developing a strong work ethic. One year, the family created "dream boards," collages of words, pictures and goals they revisited once or twice a quarter at the dinner table.
A new leader's first year
Thursday, Aug. 20, marks the first day of the 2026–27 school year for students at the district's seven elementary schools and two middle schools across Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills and Burr Ridge. It also marks the start of Wipke's tenure as the community's top K–8 educator.
The D181 board unanimously hired Wipke in December 2025 after a nationwide search that drew 34 applicants, according to the Chicago Tribune. He came from the Ladue School District in suburban St. Louis, where he spent seven years as superintendent of a district ranked No. 1 in Missouri by Niche.com. Before becoming an administrator, Wipke was a fifth-grade teacher and a sixth-grade World History teacher. He holds a doctorate in education from Maryville University.
His five-year contract runs through June 30, 2031, with a first-year salary of $270,000 and a $20,000 signing bonus.
Board President Bill Cotter said in December 2025 that the board selected Wipke for "his successful track record and embodiment of outstanding leadership qualities."
Setting the tone
On Friday, Aug. 14, the district held its annual Opening Day celebration, bringing the full staff together. Wipke said the gathering focused on the impact of staff work and how it shapes "The D181 Experience."
In his letter, Wipke framed the home-school partnership as central to his vision. He succeeds Hector Garcia, who led the district from July 2018 until his retirement.
Hinsdale Week Ahead
Thursday, Aug. 20 — First day of school for all District 181 students (K–8), including Hinsdale Middle School, Clarendon Hills Middle School, Elm School, Madison School, Monroe School, Oak School, Prospect School, The Lane School and Walker School.
