Elkhart board names Michelle Rees superintendent, transition set for July 1, 2026

The Elkhart Community Schools board of trustees voted on Jan. 13 to appoint Michelle Rees as the district’s next superintendent, naming her effective July 1, 2026, and signaling a collaborative transition with current superintendent Dr. Larry Hough.

Board leaders described Rees as an internal candidate with “more than 38 years’ experience in public education” who currently serves as assistant superintendent of elementary schools for Elkhart Community Schools. The administration said Rees has led improvements in student achievement, strengthened instructional systems and maintained fiscal responsibility in prior roles — qualities the board cited as central to navigating ongoing consolidation and budget work.

In announcing the selection, the board said Rees will continue to work closely with Dr. Hough through the transition period. “To ensure a smooth and effective transition, Miss Reese will continue to work closely with Doctor Hough,” the board’s prepared statement said. The administration also said contract negotiations are ongoing and that a public notice about the contract will be published with ratification planned at an upcoming meeting.

Board members praised Dr. Hough’s leadership and expressed confidence that the internal appointment would preserve continuity during consolidation and fiscal adjustments. Trustee comments highlighted recent facility openings, program successes and a 95% high-school graduation rate as evidence of district momentum the board expects Rees to sustain.

What happens next: the administration said it hopes to finalize contract details soon, post required public notices and bring a contract ratification to the board at a subsequent meeting. The board did not provide a vote tally tied to the appointment during the announcement; the motion to approve the slate and subsequent motions during the meeting were carried by voice vote where recorded.