Dr. C. Todd Cummings' journey from teaching to becoming the longest-serving superintendent of the South Bend Community School Corporation (SBCSC) in 25 years is a testament to his dedication to education.
Growing up in Southern Indiana, Cummings attended Laurel High School until his family relocated to Kokomo during his senior year. He completed his high school education at Western High School before heading to college and earning his teaching license through Indiana University Kokomo.
Starting his professional journey as an eighth-grade English teacher, Cummings spent seven years at Western Middle School in Russiaville, Indiana.
"After Western, I taught for five years at the Orchard School in Indianapolis,” Cummings said. “While I was there, I finished my PhD in educational leadership and administration through Indiana State University.”
Next, finding an opportunity within the Fort Wayne Community Schools, Cummings saw the chance to take a step forward in his career. He spent the next decade in various roles related to curriculum strategy, compensation, and evaluation.
As his next venture, Cummings joined SBCSC as the director of human resources. He quickly advanced to deputy superintendent and eventually assumed the role of superintendent — this is his sixth year in this position.
Becoming a superintendent wasn’t always on Cummings' radar, but his passion for education fueled a desire to make a more significant difference in students’ lives.
“I am a teacher at heart; I love engaging with students and teachers,” Cummings said. “Becoming superintendent allowed me to make a broader impact. Now, I can focus on ensuring safe and secure schools, helping an entire district of students read at grade level, and improving graduation rates — which are the highest they’ve been in 20 years.”
Whether the students of SBCSC are mastering reading skills or preparing to attend college, Cummings finds fulfillment in seeing their successes.
“My favorite part of my job is interacting with parents and students and seeing students thrive,” Cummings said. “Watching our students excel is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role.”
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Cummings enjoys spending time with his family and two senior dogs, training for a marathon, and reading. He also currently teaches leadership and human resources courses at Indiana Tech.
“All the great things we’ve accomplished — whether it’s increasing literacy, ensuring safe and secure schools, or raising graduation rates — are due to the incredible team I work with,” Cummings said. “They do the heavy lifting. I’m also fortunate to have a great board. You don’t become the longest-serving superintendent of SBCSC in 25 years without having such a strong team and board behind you. I love my job and am proud to be the superintendent of South Bend Community School Corporation.”