Frank Karczewski will not return as the head football coach at John Adams High School but will remain employed by South Bend Community School Corporation (SBCSC) after the district concluded its investigation, finding “insufficient evidence that Mr. Karczewski sent photographs or messages to the students involved.”

Karczewski was placed on administrative leave October 22 amid Adams’ best season in a decade. Offensive coordinator Craig Redman, who previously served as the Eagles’ head coach more than a decade ago, took over as interim head coach for the remainder of the postseason. Adams lost to Concord Friday night in the sectional semifinals to end its season.

“After becoming aware of concerns involving photographs and messages associated with John Adams High School Head Football Coach Frank Karczewski, South Bend Community School Corporation immediately initiated an investigation and placed Mr. Karczewski on administrative leave that same day,” South Bend Community School Corporation said in a statement. “The District has completed its investigation based on the information available and found insufficient evidence to establish that Mr. Karczewski sent photographs or messages to the students involved. Due to the confidential nature of personnel matters, the District will not comment further on the specifics of the investigation or related employment decisions.”

“The District has decided that Mr. Karczewski will not return as head football coach at John Adams High School. He will remain employed with the District. This decision allows the school to move forward with new leadership while maintaining continuity for its student-athletes.”

According to a source, student-athletes were informed Wednesday morning, prior to the news becoming public.

“John Adams High School will begin the process of selecting a new head football coach,” the school corporation continued in its statement. “The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority. Our focus is on supporting our student-athletes and moving the John Adams football program forward.”

Karczewski, who starred at quarterback for Adams under Redman, finished with a 13-36 record in five seasons as the Eagles’ head coach. Adams finished the 2026 season at 5-5, marking its first non-losing season since 2016.

Sports Michiana first reported Karczewski’s initial removal from the team. Today’s news that he would permanently leave his position as head coach was first reported by Kyle Smedley of the South Bend Tribune.