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Elkhart Schools Announce New Superintendent

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/05/elkhart-schools-announce-new-superintendent.html
  Published in House and Home on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 23:24 GMT by The Goshen News
      Locales: Indiana, UNITED STATES

ELKHART, Indiana - February 6th, 2026 - The Elkhart Community Schools Board of Trustees today announced the appointment of Dr. Kimberly Riise as the district's next superintendent, effective March 1st, 2026. Dr. Riise will assume the role following the retirement of Dr. Alan Cunningham, who has served the district with distinction for many years. The selection culminates a comprehensive search process emphasizing community engagement and a commitment to continued student success.

Dr. Riise brings a wealth of experience to Elkhart, most recently serving as the superintendent of the South Bend Community School Corporation. Her tenure in South Bend was marked by significant strides in academic performance, particularly within traditionally underserved populations. She is recognized statewide for her innovative approaches to closing achievement gaps and fostering inclusive learning environments. Sources within the South Bend district highlight her dedication to data-driven decision making, coupled with a genuine commitment to listening to and collaborating with stakeholders at all levels.

"We are pleased to announce Dr. Riise as our next superintendent," said Board President Laura Grout in a press release. "Her vision for student success, experience with budget management, and unwavering focus on equity make her the ideal candidate to lead our district forward. The board was incredibly impressed by her strategic thinking and her ability to articulate a clear path for Elkhart Community Schools."

The search for a new superintendent involved extensive community input. The board conducted a series of forums, surveys, and interviews with parents, teachers, students, and community leaders to identify the key qualities and priorities for the next leader. The results of this engagement process were instrumental in shaping the criteria used to evaluate candidates. Several key themes emerged, including a desire for a superintendent who would prioritize student well-being, enhance opportunities for career and technical education, and strengthen partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

Dr. Riise's background aligns closely with these priorities. During her time in South Bend, she championed the expansion of early childhood education programs, implemented innovative STEM initiatives, and secured increased funding for vocational training. She also fostered strong relationships with local businesses, leading to internship opportunities and real-world learning experiences for students. Elkhart County's robust manufacturing sector and growing technology industry suggest that this aspect of her experience will be particularly valuable.

"I am honored and excited to join the Elkhart Community Schools family," Riise stated. "I'm looking forward to collaborating with our students, staff, families, and community to create a thriving learning environment for all. Elkhart has a rich tradition of educational excellence, and I am eager to build upon that foundation to ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential."

Looking ahead, Dr. Riise faces several key challenges and opportunities. Elkhart Community Schools, like many districts across the nation, is navigating the complexities of post-pandemic learning loss, evolving student needs, and increasing demands for accountability. Ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for all students will remain a top priority. Furthermore, addressing the growing need for mental health support and fostering a positive school climate will be crucial.

However, Elkhart also boasts significant strengths. The district is home to dedicated teachers, engaged parents, and a supportive community. With a population exceeding 31,000 students, Elkhart Community Schools is one of the largest school districts in Indiana, offering a diverse range of programs and services. Dr. Riise's proven leadership abilities and commitment to collaboration will be instrumental in harnessing these strengths and addressing the challenges that lie ahead. The school board anticipates a smooth transition and a bright future for Elkhart Community Schools under Dr. Riise's guidance. The community is encouraged to welcome Dr. Riise and participate in the ongoing dialogue about the future of education in Elkhart.