Superintendent Writes Letter Regarding Manchester Elementary School Closing

Dear South Dearborn Community School Corporation Families and Community Members,

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the closure of Manchester Elementary School. This decision has not come easily, nor without deep reflection, countless conversations, and a genuine understanding of the emotional weight it carries for so many. Manchester has been more than just a school building — it has been a place of learning, growth, friendship, and community for generations. Its closure marks the end of an era, and we mourn that loss alongside each of you.

This decision was driven by a confluence of difficult realities. Our district has faced a steady decline in student enrollment over the past several years. The loss of revenue stemming from Senate Bill 1 has further strained our financial resources. At the same time, we are confronted with the pressing needs of costly capital improvement projects at Manchester Elementary School. As stewards of the district’s long-term sustainability, we must take these factors seriously in order to preserve the quality of education for all students within South Dearborn.

We want to be clear — your voices were heard. The administration and the Board of Trustees did not make this decision lightly, and we know it causes real pain in the short term. The passion, concern, and care that community members have shown throughout this process are not only understood — they are respected. Our hope is that, moving forward, this moment can serve as more than a point of sorrow. Let it also be the beginning of a renewed, shared commitment to the future of our schools.

The legacy of Manchester Elementary School should not be defined by its closing, but by the opportunity it now presents for unity and progress. This is a pivotal time to come together — not just as individual towns of Manchester, Dillsboro, Aurora, or Moores Hill — but as one South Dearborn COMMUNITY School Corporation. We must be YouKnighted in purpose, passion, and vision.

Let us challenge ourselves and one another to shift the culture of our school community. Let us engage in difficult conversations with respect. Let us listen with open hearts and speak with dignity. Disagreements will happen — they are part of any healthy, growing community — but they must not divide us. Personal attacks, name-calling, and accusations of wrongdoing do not move us forward. Respect does. Unity does. Collaboration does.

Together, we must turn the page. Let this be a rallying cry — not just to preserve what we have, but to boldly imagine what we can become. Let this be the beginning of a broader effort to promote, enhance, and reimagine our schools in ways that attract and retain students, build pride in our district, and reflect the values of the incredible communities we serve. South Dearborn Community Schools is committed to the sustainability of its four remaining schools.

Change causes uncertainty. It is our desire to partner with families to ease your concerns and make this transition as seamless as possible. Time is of the essence which is why the administrative team has begun to formulate a transition plan. Starting on Friday there will be a google form on the website that will allow families to submit questions or suggestions. The administration will create a frequently asked questions (FAQ) document, that will be updated weekly throughout this process. Hopefully, this will help you feel like you are a part of the process and that your questions are being answered.

We are Knights — and together, we are stronger. With empathy, resolve, and hope for the future,

Dr. Ron Ross (on behalf of the SDCSC Board of Trustees) Superintendent South Dearborn Community School Corporation