Children must be five years old by June 1 to be admitted to school in the current school year, and six years old by June 1 for first grade. An evaluation and admission process is available for parents wishing to apply for early kindergarten enrollment for their children. High school students may register year-round at their assigned schools. Students are generally assigned to schools based on their home address. Students in grades 1-6 may choose between the school assigned to them on the basis of their address, and the alternative school in their attendance district.
Bus transportation is provided for all students living outside walking distance of school.
Free and reduced-price meals are available to families qualifying by income according to Federal guidelines. Students whose families qualify for free or reduced meals also qualify for free textbooks. Indiana law requires that public school corporations collect fees for textbook usage. South Bend Community School Corporation offers a number of convenient payment options, including VISA or MasterCard.