consolidation

"We want to keep our kids in Elkhart," said Director of Secondary Schools Cary Anderson. "We want to provide them with an equitable online solution, and we think that we have the people in place and the programming already in place to be able to establish this virtual school."

Elkhart schools plan to consolidate preschool and alternative programs, create a virtual school, and relocate adult education amid declining enrollment.

The Elkhart school board advances a consolidation plan that would shift students, relocate programs and recommend closing five elementary schools amid financial strain.

New Elkhart Community Schools Superintendent Michele Riise brings 38 years of experience, including two prior superintendent jobs, to lead the corporation through a building consolidation driven by declining enrollment and financial challenges.

Elkhart Community Schools Superintendent Larry Huff says he'll stay on the job through June, delivering his school closure recommendations because of declining enrollment to the board in February