Superintendent Dr. Hough and cabinet members presented Phase 3 of the districtconsolidation plan: recommended moves include relocating Hawthorne Early Learning to Roosevelt STEAM Academy, adjusting intense special-education program locations to preserve peer groups, centralizing nontraditional K 12 programs at Woodland, and siting a new virtual school and adult education in identified facilities.

Elkhart Community Schools’ board unanimously approved four resolutions on Feb. 24 authorizing mortgage and reimbursement bonds (series 2026 A/B and related appropriations) to fund districtwide elementary and secondary facility projects; administrators said the package would raise the debt service rate by about one cent and support operations while consolidation savings take effect.

Policy Analytics told the Elkhart Community Schools board that Indiana’s Senate Enrolled Act 1 will produce large new deductions and credits that reduce the district’s net assessed value and create millions in unfunded credits; without cuts or new revenue the district’s cash balance could be exhausted around 2028.

The board ratified a tentative master contract with the Elkhart Teachers Association that includes no increase in teacher compensation or premiums for 2025–26; Superintendent Dr. Hough and board members acknowledged the difficulty and said they intend to work toward improved compensation next year.

At its Oct. 14 meeting the Elkhart school board approved consent donations totaling $79,562.20, multiple contracts and policies, awarded a kitchen serving‑line upgrade contract, and unanimously authorized the superintendent to begin a district consolidation and facility realignment study with final recommendations expected by March 2026.

Superintendent Dr. Larry Huff told a State of the District audience that declining enrollment, a recent state law change and lost federal grants are forcing the district to begin a consolidation feasibility study and seek community input before recommending school pairings to the board.

The board recognizes retiring educators and staff for their impactful contributions to Elkhart.

Laura Mathison and Mary Peyton recognized as distinguished support staff of the year

Elkhart School Board recognizes outstanding support staff for their vital contributions to education.

Elkhart celebrated top students at the Trailblazer Awards during Black History Month.