SBCSC Superintendent Nominated for National Excellence in Instructional Leadership Award

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The South Bend Community School Corporation (SBCSC) is proud to announce that Superintendent Dr. Todd Cummings has been selected as one of six nominees for the Excellence in Instructional Leadership Award by the National Association of School Superintendents (NASS). This prestigious recognition highlights Dr. Cummings' outstanding contributions to educational leadership and his steadfast commitment to the success of SBCSC students and schools.

NASS, dedicated to advancing the individual and collective success of school superintendents, provides development, resources, services, and member benefits tailored to meet the unique demands and challenges faced by educational leaders. Dr. Cummings’ nomination is a testament to his innovative and collaborative approach in guiding SBCSC to new heights.

“Dr. Cummings has brought much-needed consistency and stability to the district. In doing so, he has created pathways for children at every level to flourish,” said Dr. Stuart Greene, President of the SBCSC Board of Trustees. “His approach to student learning has seen literacy rates steadily increase and graduation rates exceed levels we have not seen in a decade, all in an effort to create equitable opportunities for all students. Importantly, he has listened well to what the community has wanted, and he has acted with a steadfast commitment to what families, teachers, and children need from our schools. Perhaps most importantly, Dr. Cummings has demonstrated courage as a leader who has made difficult decisions in order to ensure that the district will be sustainable in the years to come.”

Dr. Cummings will begin his fifth year as superintendent on July 1, 2024, marking him as the longest-serving superintendent in nearly 25 years. His tenure has been characterized by remarkable achievements, including:

- Achieving the highest graduation rates in a decade.
- Providing free and accessible internet for all students, ensuring equitable access to online learning.
- Expanding dual credit opportunities and offering free college courses to high school students.
- Enhancing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to better prepare students for future careers.
- Expanding CTE opportunities with a downtown Career Hub Development opening Fall 2025
- Leading a successful $220 million referendum focused on improving school safety, raising teacher salaries, and expanding Pre-K programs.
- Ensuring a social worker is present in every school to support the well-being of our students.

In addition to these accomplishments, Dr. Cummings was selected in April as President of the Indiana Urban Schools Association (IUSA) for a second term, where he will continue to serve through the 2024-25 school year. IUSA represents 37 Hoosier school districts and nearly 350,000 students.

The NASS award winners will be announced later this year. The SBCSC community extends its congratulations to Dr. Cummings on this nomination and looks forward to his continued leadership and commitment to educational excellence.