The Rockford School Board of Education is sharing a progress update on the district's superintendent search process. The application window for candidates officially closed on November 1, 2025. A total of 47 candidates submitted applications to serve as the next superintendent of RPS 205. Applicants represent Illinois and nine other states, reflecting strong national interest in leading the district.
BWP & Associates, the search firm hired to lead the process, is currently reviewing applications and conducting first round interviews. This phase includes identifying candidates who best align with the Leadership Profile developed by BWP based on extensive input from the board, community stakeholders, and key stakeholders.
On November 17, BWP will present the board with a recommended slate of five to seven semi-finalists. The board will conduct interviews with these individuals in the following weeks, with the goal of selecting the next superintendent by mid-December. The next superintendent will officially begin on July 1, 2026.
Board President Paul Carpenter shared, "The board is very pleased with the number of candidates who have applied. The strong response is a testament to the strength of our community, our staff, our students and their families, and the solid foundation currently in place at RPS 205. We look forward to meeting the semi-finalists and continuing this thoughtful process to select the right leader for RPS 205 in 2026 and beyond. We appreciate BWP & Associates for their continued partnership in this important work."
The board remains committed to a transparent and community-informed search process and will continue to provide updates as key milestones are reached.