Indiana school district wins award for urban school excellence

The South Bend Community School Corporation (SBCSC) has CUBE Chair Gill Garrett, NSBA Executive Director Verjeana McCotter-Jacobs, SBCSC Superintendent Dr. C. Todd Cummings, SBCSC Board Member John Anella, NSBA Secretary-Treasurer Steve Coronabeen awarded the 2024 Award for Urban School Excellence by the National School Boards Association’s Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE). The announcement was made during the 2024 CUBE Annual Conference in Las Vegas, recognizing school boards that demonstrate exceptional growth and innovative leadership in urban education.

Dr. C. Todd Cummings, Superintendent of SBCSC, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “As we celebrate receiving the CUBE Award, we recognize that this honor reflects our Board’s tireless efforts in championing student-focused leadership," he said. “Our innovative strategies are driving transformative change, creating a profound impact on our students and the entire community.”

As the oldest and largest school corporation in St. Joseph County, SBCSC has made substantial strides in enhancing literacy, improving school safety, and increasing graduation rates, particularly for African American students. The district’s $220 million referendum underscores this focus on equity and inclusion, which aims to fund school improvements, teacher raises, and initiatives to boost literacy and graduation rates. Recently, SBCSC reported its highest high school graduation rate in a decade, reaching 86.17 percent overall, with a 15 percent increase in graduation rates for African American students.

Gill Garrett, chair of CUBE, congratulated SBCSC, stating, “Their commitment to fostering academic improvement, educational equity, and community engagement exemplifies excellence in urban education. The South Bend Community School Corporation not only embodies the mission of CUBE, but they also inspire us to continue striving for excellence in urban education.”

In a further commitment to equity, SBCSC has prioritized internet access through its Citywide Classroom program, which provides free, high-quality internet to residents in St. Joseph County. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and enhance educational opportunities for all students. Additionally, the establishment of an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Department under Dr. Cummings indicates SBCSC's proactive approach to promoting an inclusive and supportive environment.

Verjeana McCotter-Jacobs, executive director and CEO of the National School Boards Association, noted the importance of SBCSC’s achievements. “Their dedication to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and high-achieving environment sets a high standard for urban school districts nationwide.”