District cancels classes on 5th day of school after buses had catalytic converters stolen

MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. (WNDU/Gray News) – A school district in Indiana had to close its schools Tuesday after someone stole the catalytic converters from many of its buses.

According to a Facebook post from Michigan City Area Schools, transportation staff discovered early Tuesday morning that the buses had been vandalized.

EN ESPAÑOL | Distrito escolar cancela las clases después de que robaran los conversores catalíticos de los autobuses

The district said it was forced to switch from in-person learning to online learning due to the thefts.

According to WNDU, about 20 buses were vandalized.

The district said it is working closely with Michigan City Police Department as they investigate the incident.

“We know this sudden change is disruptive, and we appreciate your patience and support as we work through this unexpected situation,” the district wrote.

The school system said it would keep families updated on how the rest of the week might be affected.

The thefts happened during the district’s fifth day of school. According to an online calendar, students started school on Aug. 13.

Michigan City is located in northernmost Indiana on the coast of Lake Michigan.