Elkhart schools superintendent to leave for Illinois district after two years

ELKHART, Ind. -- Yesterday, it was announced Elkhart Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Larry Huff will leave the district after two years to take a superintendent position in Illinois, a move that comes as the district works through a major school consolidation process.

Huff was named as the finalist for superintendent of Rockford Public Schools in Illinois on Tuesday. He said he intends to leave Elkhart Community Schools in June 2026 but has yet to finalize a contract.

The announcement surprised some in the community, as the district is in the midst of a consolidation effort that is expected to close some schools to better use district resources. Huff said he is confident the transition will not disrupt that process.

“I truly believe that Elkhart is a gift that will keep on giving,” Huff said. “I do believe that we’re leaving it in a good place. I’m definitely proud of the work that we’ve done over these two years.”

Huff began serving as superintendent in 2024 and has overseen the early stages of consolidation planning. He said he plans to continue that work and follow the previously established timeline, including making recommendations on school closures in February.

“I’m going to do as much as I can with that consolidation work that’s based off the timeline that’s already submitted,” he said.

Rockford Public Schools appealed to Huff because of similarities to Elkhart, including an industrial-based local economy, he said. He stated that the decision to look for a position outside of Elkhart Community School was not rooted in compensation only, citing wanting to be closer to family.

Huff is expected to earn a $285,000 salary in Rockford, an increase from his current $218,000 salary in Elkhart. He emphasized that the move is not financially motivated, citing a desire to be closer to family as a key factor.

“After reflecting on my professional journey, it’s not necessarily that I’m leaving here because this is a better place over there,” Huff said. “I believe that Rockford Public Schools is a great fit for me.”