Plus mission moments, a Hall of Fame reminder, and welcoming our newest team member.
If you're having trouble viewing this email, you cansee it online.
As we celebratePublic Schools Week, we are reminded that strong public schools are the foundation of a strong community. This week is about recognizing the educators, students, families, and supporters who make public education in South Bend something we can all be proud of.
There is no better way to celebrate that impact than by joining us for one of our most inspiring mornings of the year — the Great Friends of Schools Breakfast.
On April 28, 2026, from 8:00–10:00 a.m. (doors open at 7:30 a.m.) at the Palais Royale in South Bend, the South Bend Education Alliance and Superintendent Eid will gather our community to celebrate the progress happening across SBCSC and the people making it possible.
During the breakfast, you will:
See how SBEA supports our schools
Celebrate our outstanding grant recipients
Hear Superintendent Eid share the State of the Schools
Learn what’s ahead for SBCSC
Public Schools Week reminds us that when we invest in public education, we invest in opportunity, innovation, and the future of our city. The Great Friends of Schools Breakfast brings together alumni, educators, business leaders, and community partners who believe every student deserves the resources and support to thrive.
We hope you will join us for this meaningful morning of celebration and connection.
Registration is now open— reserve your seat today and celebrate South Bend Community Schools with us.
With gratitude,
Kris Arizmendi Choinacky,
Executive Director
THERE'S STILL TIME
to submit your 2026 South Bend Community Hall of Fame Nomination!
Do you know someone who has made a lasting impact in our community through Arts, Athletics, Business & Industry, Education, Public Service, or Science & Technology?
Now’s the time to recognize the leaders, innovators, and changemakers who help shape South Bend. Submit nominations and supporting letters by March 1, 2026 to be considered for induction this year!
Nominate your hero by March 1, 2026 to be honored this year:
Thanks to an AEP Foundation Field Trip Grant, 4th and 5th grade students from Harrison Elementary enjoyed a special day of ice skating at Howard Park.
For many students, it was their first time on the ice — an experience that built confidence, perseverance, and courage as they learned new skills and supported one another along the way. Beyond the physical benefits of balance, coordination, and staying active, the trip strengthened friendships, encouraged teamwork, and helped students feel more connected to their South Bend community.
Student attendee Marking commented: "I have always wanted to go ice skating here. I go roller skating on weekends, but ice skating is much harder. It was so much fun!"
Opportunities like this go far beyond a day of fun. They support whole-child development, create lasting memories, and remind our students that their community is invested in their growth and success.
STUDENTS SHAPE A GROWING CLASSROOM LIBRARY
Jefferson Traditional School educator Pamela Nachazel was able to add new titles to her classroom library by creating a Teacher Wishlist— and her students had a direct hand in choosing them.
The books were recommended by students themselves, which made the delivery day even more exciting. As Ms. Nachazel shared, “The books added to the library were recommended by students. They were so happy when I put them out.” Now, when students finish their regular library book, they can borrow something they’re genuinely excited about from their own classroom shelves.
One especially sweet moment? Two girls were thrilled to see multiple copies of their favorite series so they could read aloud together. We’re proud to support opportunities like this that give students ownership of their learning and help foster meaningful academic growth.
MEET ELIZABETH MILLER,
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
We are proud to welcome Elizabeth Miller as the Director of Operations at the South Bend Education Alliance.
Elizabeth is a lifelong resident of South Bend and a graduate of the South Bend Community School Corporation, attending SBCSC from kindergarten through 12th grade (with Superintendent Eid serving as her freshman year soccer coach!). Her deep roots in our community fuel her commitment to serving the students, families, and educators who make South Bend strong.
She earned her undergraduate degree in History from Indiana University South Bend and holds two graduate degrees from East Tennessee State University, a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education and a Master of Education in Educational Media & Technology. Throughout her career, Elizabeth has served children and families in educational, nonprofit, and operational leadership roles, bringing both heart and strong organizational expertise to her work.
Elizabeth is passionate about putting mission into action and helping create the systems that allow students and educators to thrive. She is honored to serve the community that helped shape her, and she especially loves being a mom!
Welcome to the Alliance, Elizabeth!
REMINDER: applications are now open for the 2026 South Bend Education Alliance scholarships! Three $5,000 awards are available to help you pursue higher education.
Scholarships:
Connie S. Varga Scholarship – For female seniors who demonstrate service, leadership, and academic excellence.
Jack M. Champaigne Scholarship – For seniors planning to attend Purdue University, honoring innovation and community impact.
South Bend Education Alliance Scholarship – For seniors showing academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to community growth.
The South Bend Education Alliance offers seven high school platforms (Adams, Central, Clay, Jackson, LaSalle, Riley, and Washington) for you to network, reminisce, find reunions, and volunteer. Our goal is the mobilize Alumni to make a change in our community by remaining connected to South Bend Community School Corporation.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
