Welcome to the RFC!

June 18, 2019

Rockford Freshman Center

Rockford Freshman Center

Tom Hosford - Principal

Kelly Amshey - Assistant Principal

4500 Kroes Street Northeast, Rockford, MI, USA thosford@rockfordschools.org (616)863-6348 rockfordschools.org

RFC Welcomes the Class of 2023!

Each year, we look forward to meeting over 600 new faces at the Rockford Freshman Center! Students from both Rockford Middle Schools will join with students from various charter, private, and homeschool programs to create a student body that is unique and special!


There is no doubt that the 9th grade year is an exciting one. Students change so much during this first year of high school, learning to become more responsible and independent each day. Our staff looks forward to supporting the growth of each student throughout the year.


We are excited to see this new group of students in just a couple short months, at our scheduled orientation program. In the meantime, please take a few minutes to review the information and contact us with any remaining questions. Thank you, in advance, for your partnership in the year ahead!


Tom Hosford, Principal

Kelly Amshey, Assistant Principal

Orientation Information

Orientation Information

Class of 2023 Orientation - August 14 from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m.

Class of 2023 Make Up Orientation - August 19 from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m.



  • Attendance is required
  • Dress for school photos. All students will have their picture taken for School ID
  • Picture orders may be placed in advance through HR Imaging (beginning in August). All families will receive a picture form in the mail prior to orientation. HR Imaging is requesting that you bring your picture form with you to orientation whether or not you will be purchasing pictures.
  • After having pictures taken, students will use their ID to check out textbooks
  • Optional - students may visit and set up locker
  • Optional - students may identify classroom locations
  • Optional - students may bring a check to order their yearbook
Orientation Information

Student Computers - Important Information

The launch of 1:1 Technology and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives at the high school level in 2018-19 was extremely successful! We are excited about the learning opportunities that these devices bring to our classrooms. Our teachers expect high school students to come to class prepared with a charged computer, in addition to necessary supplies such as pencils, notebooks, and calculators. In order to support the best use of classroom instructional time, please remind your students of the following:


  • Students are expected to charge their computers at home every night.
  • Students are required to bring their computer and charger to every class unless they have been directed otherwise by their teacher.

In August, you will receive an enrollment verification communication through Family Access, at which time you will be prompted to read and confirm that you've read the technology handbook and to request a school-issued device if your student is not bringing one from home.


For families considering the BYOD option, below are some helpful specifics:


Acceptable devices include:

  1. Chromebooks (purchased within the last 3 years)
  2. Windows Laptops (running Windows 10)
  3. Apple Devices:
    1. Laptops (purchased within the last 4 years)
    2. Tablets (including iPad Air or greater, purchased within the last 2 years – Must have attached keyboard)

All devices must meet the following minimum requirements:

  1. 9.5” diagonal display
  2. Keyboard (physically attached as wireless keyboards have the frustrating ability to connect to or interfere with other student devices in a room of students).
  3. Web browser (Chrome, Safari, or Microsoft Internet Explorer– Note that other browsers may create frustration for students while accessing content designed for the “big 3 browsers”)
  4. WiFi connection capability


Thank you!

School Supply List

School Supply List

In order to be prepared for the beginning of each trimester, parents have asked for help identifying supplies that students will need. This link includes a list of student materials common to each department. Individual classroom teachers may request additional materials. We also recommend an organizational planner for all students.

School Supply List
Electronic Device Policy Update

Electronic Device Policy Update

Now that all 9-12 students will carry and utilize a laptop for educational purposes, the value of cell phones in the classroom is limited or lost. It has turned into more of a distraction than a helpful instructional tool.


As a result, the staff at RFC have an agreed upon expectation that cell phones will be secured in locked lockers or in an identified space within the classroom during instructional periods. Additionally, cell phones will not be permitted in hallways, lobbies, restrooms, or common areas during instructional periods. Students will be able to utilize their cell phones before and after school, during passing time and at lunch.


Please make note and discuss this expectation with your student in advance. Thanks!

Electronic Device Policy Update
Athletics at RHS

Athletics at RHS

High School athletic programs begin well in advance of the start of the school year. If your student has interest in participating in RHS Athletics, please be sure to:

1. Contact the coach (get contact info from RHS Athletics if you require assistance http://www.rockfordschools.org/athletics/

2. Obtain a sports physical on the appropriate MSHAA form

3. Check out summer camp opportunities through RPS Community Services http://www.rockfordschools.org/community-services/classes-activities

Athletics at RHS

IMPORTANT DATES

August 12 - RFC Office Reopens

August 13 - Class of 2020 Orientation at RHS 10-12

August 14 - Class of 2023 Orientation at RFC

August 14 - Class of 2021 Orientation at RHS 10-12

August 15 - Class of 2022 Orientation at RHS 10-12

August 19 - Make up Orientation at RFC

August 26 - FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!!!!

August 30 - No School for Students

September 2 - No School for Students

September 4 - Curriculum Night/Open House RFC

October 11 - Early Dismissal for Students (10:55 a.m.)

October 16 - Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:30 p.m.

October 17 - Parent Teacher Conferences 4-7 p.m.

Co-Curricular Schedules

Band - http://www.rockfordbands.org/calendar/

Choir - http://rockfordchoirs.com/

Orchestra - COMING SOON!

Theater - http://www.rockfordschools.org/fine-arts/theatre/

Athletics - https://rockfordhighschool.bigteams.com/main/calendar/

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