South Bend Empowerment Zone to welcome back students for in-person learning By: Mathew Quijano SOUTH BEND, IND. – The South Bend Empowerment Zone announced that on March 8th, over 80% of students will return to their elementary and middle schools for in-person learning. The Empowerment Zone also stated that middle school parents who opted for sheltered elearning will also be welcomed on March 8th. Connecting with parents of the empowerment zone, the organization found that over 80% of families would like their child to return to in-person learning. Administration and staff are joyed to accommodate all families decisions, as well as planning an extensive welcome back week that will include celebratory mornings, Washington High School Girl's Basketball Team welcoming students with a Dream Tour, and the organization's #100PercentWinning Campaign designed to celebrate every single child in the Empowerment Zone.