Update: July 14, 2026 

The Elkhart Community Schools Board of Trustees did not approve the Innovation Network Agreement with Premier Arts Academy. Even though this agreement was not approved, the district must now ensure that the future of the Osolo building follows steps in accordance with Indiana’s 'Dollar Sale Law' (I.C. 20-26-7.1). State law requires us to list it as vacant, which necessitates transferring the property to any interested charter school. We will continue to ensure compliance with statutory obligations including any financially associated obligations. As with any decisions of the board, we will continue to ensure that student instruction is our primary focus along with ensuring highly effective staff are in place to support their learning.

An upcoming public work session has been scheduled to discuss the proposed Innovation Network Charter School Agreement.

• Date: Friday, July 10, 2026

• Time: 5:00 p.m.

During the session, the Board of School Trustees will receive a presentation on the proposed agreement. Following the presentation, members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments and share their perspectives.

The purpose of this work session is to review the proposal, ask questions, and hear community feedback before the Board considers any formal action at the upcoming board meeting on July 14, 2026.

Consolidation & Facility Update: The Statutory Process

The Legal Timeline & Next Steps

1. Official Board Action & State Notification: Once a school board takes official action to close a building for instructional purposes, the district has 30 days to notify the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). Please note: At this time, no official Board action has occurred that would trigger this formal notification requirement.

2. State Review & Charter Access: Once the IDOE receives notice, they have 15 days to notify eligible interested parties, which include charter schools and state educational institutions.

3. Expression of Interest: These eligible entities then have 60 days to officially express interest in leasing or acquiring the building. Under the statute, if a qualified entity steps forward within this timeframe, they may have the ability to acquire or lease the building for $1.00.

4. Alternative District Uses: There are legal avenues that allow a school corporation to retain a building for another permissible educational or administrative purpose. However, those decisions are also tightly bound by statutory requirements and can be legally challenged by interested charter or state entities.

5. Other Future Options: If the 60-day window passes and no eligible charter school or state institution expresses interest, the District is then legally permitted to consider other avenues for the sale, disposition, or future use of the building.

Current Status and Next Steps

No specific dates or deadlines have been set for these decisions just yet. In the meantime, the District remains fully responsible for the ongoing maintenance and security of these facilities after instructional activities come to a close.