Elkhart board accepts superintendent's resignation and names Michelle Reese interim superintendent

The Elkhart Community Schools board voted unanimously Wednesday to accept the resignation of Dr. Larry Hoff and to appoint Michelle Reese as interim superintendent effective April 3, 2026.

President Scott opened the discussion by praising Dr. Hoff's leadership, saying the district had seen academic and financial improvement during his tenure. "We will get there academically. We will get there financially," President Scott said, noting work on consolidation and cost-saving measures.

The board approved the resignation by voice vote, recorded as 7–0. Members then approved a slate of interim appointments to ensure continuity: Michelle Reese was named interim superintendent immediately upon the board’s approval; Dr. Rausch was advanced to interim deputy superintendent and Christian Cederberg was named interim director of elementary schools, all listed as effective April 3, 2026. Those motions also passed unanimously.

President Scott credited the departing superintendent with steering a district consolidation and helping implement financial strategies that the administration says produced substantial savings. The board’s remarks referenced academic growth on state assessments and improved graduation rates during Dr. Hoff’s time with the district.

Next steps: the board completed the vote and proceeded with other agenda items. The administration did not provide additional details at the meeting about a search for a permanent superintendent or timelines beyond the interim appointments.

Note on transcript spelling: the transcript alternately spells the departing superintendent’s name as “Dr. Larry Hoff” and “Dr. Hough.” The board motion and initial announcement used the spelling "Dr. Larry Hoff."