The annual Illinois Report Card from the Illinois State Board of Education is out, and Rockford Public Schools are celebrating powerful gains across multiple measures of student success.
“Our district is moving in the right direction,” said Superintendent Dr. Ehren Jarrett. “The hard work of our teachers, staff, students, and families is paying off in meaningful ways. These results show real momentum for Rockford’s future.”
Among this year’s highlights:
Literacy growth: In 2022, just fifteen percent of our students were proficient in literacy.Today, that number has more than doubled.
Middle School On Track: Rates rose from under 60% in 2019 to 82% in 2025, showing students are more prepared than ever for high school success.
Graduation Rates: Climbed from 66% in 2022 to 77% in 2025, marking one of the district’s strongest upward trends in recent years.
Freshman On Track: Improved from 72% in 2022 to 79% in 2025, continuing a steady pattern of growth.
Rigor Index: Among RPS 205 graduates, 56% have experienced advanced coursework through AP classes, dual credit, or the Seal of Biliteracy. This reflects a growing culture of academic challenge and college readiness.
“Every data point represents lives changed — more students reading on grade level, more students graduating, and more students leaving high school with a strong plan for what’s next,” said Dr. Jarrett.
This year’s report card also highlights several school-level celebrations:
McIntosh Elementary doubled its summative score from 20.6 to 45.3, earning Targeted status for the first time ever.
Conklin Academy is now rated Commendable, after being identified as Targeted since 2018.
The Gifted Academy at Marshall Elementary and The Gifted Academy at Marshall Middle School as well as STEAM Academy at Haskell achieved Exemplary ratings, placing them among the top-performing schools in Illinois.
“These results don’t happen by chance,” Dr. Jarrett added. “They happen because of intentional teamwork, strong leadership, and a belief that every student can and will succeed.”
The district views the Illinois Report Card not just as a scorecard, but as a roadmap for continued growth.
Visit illinoisreportcard.com for a complete look at how RPS 205 and each school performed.