Dear RPS Stakeholders:

As we mark the one-year anniversary of COVID, I have a couple of COVID-related updates to share but I also want to focus on several initiatives we have been working on behind the scenes in the midst of and despite the disruptions caused by the virus.

With the onset of spring comes a flurry of activities, including prom, graduation, etc. Planning these events is a massive undertaking, so we are staying on top of MDHHS orders as they relate to gathering limitations as this will dictate how we can hold them. While the events may look different than previous years, I can assure you that RHS Principal Dan Zang and his team will provide first-class positive experiences for our students and families.

We truly live in a special community, as evidenced by many things, not the least of which is the remarkable support in approving bond and millage requests. The bond issue approved by voters in 2019 is providing funds for many projects throughout the district. Today, I'd like to highlight two of the bigger projects we have been working on for the past two years.

First, you may have noticed improvements being made to the Carlson-Munger Stadium at Rockford High School. This multi-purpose facility is used by several athletic groups, academic and physical education classes, the marching band, and is host to community events. Many improvements are being made to the facility, but one that will stand out is a one-of-a-kind sculpture designed by Brett Grill. Mr. Grill is a 1997 RHS graduate, Rockford Hall of Fame inductee, and internationally-recognized sculptor. The Rockford Ram will welcome visitors at the new plaza entrance and is certain to be a point of pride. We will unveil the Rockford Ram and the new facility on Thursday, August 26, in compliance with gathering allowances in place at the time.

The second project I am highlighting is our new elementary school. With the passage of the bond in 2019, we immediately began the design phase for this school. The school is being developed with input from various groups to ensure it will not only meet the immediate needs of our families but will stand the test of time and provide for the long-term needs as well. The school will be located in close proximity to the Saddle Ridge development near Edgerton and 12 Mile. The new elementary school is scheduled to open in the fall of 2024 and will be yet another point of pride for our district.

Educators are finalizing plans for our summer learning opportunities, which will include options for students in all grades. I encourage you to consider our summer school program as a way to provide some structure and academic and/or enrichment support for your children this summer. More information will be released following spring break.

Looking forward to next school year, I want to assure you that we will continue to offer Rockford Virtual School. Feedback from families using the virtual program has been very positive and we respect that several wish to continue with this option for their children.

Finally, hats off to our students and staff for finding creative ways to celebrate "March is Reading Month." One of the highlights of the month is the 5th grade Battle of the Books, which requires an extreme amount of work and dedication by the participants. The competition will look a little different but will be exciting nonetheless!

Watch Weekly Video - March 17, 2021 here

Thank you and wishing you a Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Dr. Michael Shibler
Superintendent of Schools

MARCH 24: Jersey/College Day

MARCH 31: Beach/Flip-Flop Day