Jim McCall, who’s led the Valparaiso Community Schools since 2020, shared his resignation with staff and the school board Monday.
McCall said he accepted a job in the private sector and his resignation will be effective July 1, when his contract expires.
“This was not an easy decision,” McCall said in a statement. “Valparaiso Community Schools has been my professional home since 1999, when I began my career as a high school teacher and coach.”
In the past 27 years, McCall has also served as a high school administrator, elementary principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent. He was selected as school chief from a field of 16 candidates. McCall’s initial salary was $170,000. Last year, according to a state database, he received $225,052.
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“Each step along the way has only deepened my respect for this community and for the people who make this district what it is every day,” he said.
McCall said navigating the district through the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and beyond has been the greatest challenge and honor of his career.
McCall said he’s leaving Valparaiso as its long tradition of academic excellence continues and it’s financially sound.
“Over the past decade, the community has also made significant investments to ensure that every facility reflects the quality of the programs within them. In short, this is a district with both a proud history and a very bright future,” he said.
McCall didn’t specify his next job but called it a “leadership position in the private sector, an opportunity that will allow me to grow in new ways professionally.
“While I am looking forward to that next chapter, this decision is bittersweet. This district, and the people within it, have meant a great deal to me and my family.”
McCall said the school board would share information regarding the transition to a new school leader at upcoming board meetings.
Board president Erika Watkins said in a Monday statement to school corporation families and staff members that McCall “has been deeply invested in the Valparaiso community, building relationships with students, staff, and families and contributing to the positive culture that defines our schools.
“He will be missed by many in our schools and community,” according to the statement. “We are grateful for his service, leadership, and commitment to VCS, and we wish him the very best in his next chapter.”
The board’s priority, Watkins said, is to ensure a smooth and stable transition to new leadership.
“Valparaiso Community Schools remains in a strong position, and our focus continues to be on supporting our students, staff and families through a successful school year and beyond,” she said.
McCall is the fifth Northwest Indiana superintendent to leave their district this year. The others include Larry Veracco at Lake Central, Chip Pettit at Duneland, Aaron Case at East Porter and Tom Cripliver in Lake Station. The School City of Hammond has been overseen by an acting superintendent since last year.
Five superintendents left their NWI districts last year, including Sharon Johnson-Shirley at Lake Ridge Schools. She said Monday she works at Core Construction, advising on school projects and other issues.
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.