Rockford Community,

During my transition days, I have had the opportunity to spend time with people across Rockford at the Mercado, Juneteenth, Rockford Promise events, and in conversations across the district and community.

At each stop, I heard something that stayed with me.

People in Rockford talk about this community with pride. 

Not because someone asks them to, but because it is part of who they are. They talk about their neighborhoods, their schools, their families, their history, their young people, and the work happening across this city with a sense of ownership that is hard to miss.

They wanted me to know what is working. They wanted me to know where students are thriving, where families are being supported, and where partnerships are making a difference.

They also told me where we can improve.

I appreciate both.

What I have already learned is that the heart of this community is solid. Rockford is a place where people care deeply, speak plainly, and expect the work to make a difference. 

That is something I respect.

As I begin serving as superintendent, I want to be clear about the kind of relationship I hope to build with this community. It will be grounded in honesty, listening, and follow-through. 

I will not pretend to have all the answers on day one. I believe the best leaders listen before they lead, and the best school districts improve when families, educators, students, and community partners are part of the conversation.

Over the next 90 days, I will be spending time listening and learning. 

I want to hear what you are proud of and what concerns you. I want to better understand what families need, what students are experiencing, and what you all believe is possible for Rockford Public Schools.

I also understand that trust is not something I can ask for simply because I am new. It’s something I plan to earn every year I’m here, through what I do and what I follow through on, not what I say in a welcome letter.

That is the relationship I want with Rockford.

What I have already found is a community deeply invested in its future. That commitment shows up in the pride people have for their schools, in the work of community partners, in the joy of students receiving Rockford Promise scholarships, in staff members who give far more than their job descriptions require, and in families who want the very best for their children and for this city.

There is real strength here.

But there is also work to do.

I am honored to be part of that work, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this community.

My family and I are proud to call Rockford home. I look forward to learning from you, working alongside you, and helping write the next chapter for Rockford Public Schools.

Stay Great,

Dr. Larry Huff
Superintendent
Rockford Public Schools District 205